00:01In central Taiwan, the annual Baishatun-Mazu procession marches southward across this bridge into Yunnin County.
00:08It is technically closed for repairs, but the sea goddess Mazu, beloved by so many, got special permission to cross.
00:18The route is decided through divination and is unpredictable.
00:22There are sprints, frequent unplanned detours, and sudden stops.
00:25Keeping up is tough, but the faithful are committed, many bringing stories of Mazu's miracles, including sick children cured through
00:33prayer.
00:37There are stories of love matches at processions in years past.
00:47This couple met when this young woman walked the route carrying a boyfriend wanted sign.
00:52They're back this year to show their thanks.
01:07Many other believers are hoping for a miracle of their own.
01:11A mother prays for her paralyzed eight-year-old, and a son prays for his father sick with cancer.
01:18And there is this woman, praying the goddess can help find her missing elderly mother-in-law, where the police
01:24and missing person reports have failed.
01:26She gets a brief audience with the goddess after the carriage makes an unexpected U-turn in her direction.
01:38As the goddess hears pleas like this, the believers look out for one another too.
01:43This truck following the crowd offers laundry service and hot showers for exhausted pilgrims on this multi-day trek,
01:50a roughly 400-kilometer loop through central Taiwan.
01:53For those who believe in Mazu's mercy and miracles, there's a sense of community and togetherness,
01:58as they offer prayers for well-being, love, and help amidst heartbreak.
02:03Luffy Lee and John Van Trieste for Taiwan Plus.
02:07Luffy Lee and John Van Trieste for Taiwan –
02:07Luffy Lee and John Van Trieste for Taiwan
02:08Luffy Lee Corey and John Van Trieste for Taiwan
02:08Luffy Lee Black and John Van Trieste for Taiwan
02:09Alpheus, Eric Kink, Hamilton and Aronjs for specialize for Chinese Law
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