Christians in the Philippines Are Nailed to Crosses in Extreme Acts of Devotion

People around the world celebrate Good Friday and Easter in their own unique ways. While some cultures influence its people to peacefully enjoy lamb roast, chase Easter bunnies, and perform Morris dancing as a means to celebrate, other cultures lead people to do something more unique and, well, more bizarre.

In the Philippines, for example, there are Christians who whip themselves using metal chains until their backs become bloody and have themselves crucified as acts of penitence. In Jerusalem, on the other hand, devotees carry wooden crosses on their backs and walks through the streets to honor the sacrifice that Jesus Christ had made and to celebrate the subsequent miracle of resurrection.

Below is a compilation of images showing how Good Friday was celebrated in different parts of the world:
 

In the Philippines, a man screams as nails are driven through his feet.

Some Filipino Christian devotees have themselves crucified before Easter as an act of penance.

People flock to observe the grim spectacle.

This act of penitence is observed in several parts of the country.

A man's back ended up raw and bloody after being flayed by a metal whip.

Warning: Graphic Content:

Being nailed to a cross is this woman's way of seeking forgiveness for her sins.

Filipino devotees are nailed to the cross as part of the country's traditional Good Friday celebration.

Some Christian devotees participate in the extreme practice of self-injury as a sign of faith.

Local church and health officials have condemned the practice but worshippers refuse to give up the practice.

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