Catholic devotees in the northern Philippines province of Pampanga were nailed to wooden crosses on Good Friday (March 29), in a re-enactment of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion.

Actors dressed as Roman soldiers whipped devotees carrying crosses and hammered four-inch nails through the hands and feet of three people led by Ruben Enaje, 63, who was crucified for the 35th time.

The crucifixions were the most extreme display of faith in the Philippines, where about 80 percent of its more than 110 million people identify as Roman Catholics. Devotees believe Jesus died on the cross to pay for the sins of humanity and rose from the grave three days later.

Devotees believe their penance will wash away their sins, cure illness and lead to blessings, despite the Catholic Church’s disapproval, saying that prayers and sincere repentance are enough to commemorate Lent. – Report from Reuters

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