Life is more often hard than happy, but the power of faith provides spiritual refuge and peace of mind, so that people can raise their heads again and move forward.
Throughout the eight-day Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage, we see pious believers kneeling to worship as Mazu’s palanquin approaches, preparing to kneel or prostrate themselves to let the deity pass over them. Every pair of eyes and the wrinkles on every pair of hands tell a story. Only by going deep into Taiwan’s countryside can one get this view of ordinary Taiwanese.
Meanwhile, other devotees are offering all kinds of services to the pilgrims—pour-over coffee, soft drinks, food, fruit, and even foot massages! And volunteers on bikes follow on behind the procession to pick up every last scrap of garbage along the route.
This year over 40,000 of the faithful followed Mazu on her progress among the common people. Mazu’s benevolence was reflected in the faces of the people along the route, which shone with the light of her compassion.
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When Mazu reached Chao-Tian Temple in Beigang, pious believers filled the plaza, some praying for their families with palms held together. (photo by Lin Min-hsuan)
During the eight-day pilgrimage, along the road you can see vehicles to rest in for the tired, offers of tea for the thirsty, and even volunteers giving foot massages. (photo by Chuang Kung-ju)
During the eight-day pilgrimage, along the road you can see vehicles to rest in for the tired, offers of tea for the thirsty, and even volunteers giving foot massages. (photo by Chuang Kung-ju)
During the eight-day pilgrimage, along the road you can see vehicles to rest in for the tired, offers of tea for the thirsty, and even volunteers giving foot massages. (photo by Chuang Kung-ju)
During the eight-day pilgrimage, along the road you can see vehicles to rest in for the tired, offers of tea for the thirsty, and even volunteers giving foot massages. (photo by Chuang Kung-ju)
Devotees express their love and respect for Mazu in countless different ways. (photo by Chuang Kung-ju)
Devotees express their love and respect for Mazu in countless different ways. (photo by Chuang Kung-ju)
As Mazu passes along little country roads, Taiwan’s most beautiful scenery is revealed: its people. (photo by Chuang Kung-ju)
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On the last day of the pilgrimage, believers crowd the West Coast Expressway to welcome Mazu home. (photo by Lin Min-hsuan)
On the last day of the pilgrimage, believers crowd the West Coast Expressway to welcome Mazu home. (photo by Jimmy Lin)
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