A product of a couple from two different provinces in the Philippines, I always enjoyed visiting two familiar places. My mom grew up in the province of Quezon, named after the 2nd president of the country, Manuel Quezon. It is part of Region IV-A CALABARZON and dubbed as the “Palm State” because of vast coconut plantations.

I lived in the province for 5 years and I had seen how mystical the place can be. There were many superstitions existing side by side with intense Catholicism. One of the most famous destination for pilgrimages or Visita Iglesia would be Mount Banahaw, an active volcano considered as a “holy mountain” by the locals. It is a national park and protected area since 1941.

Aside from Mount Banahaw is Kamay ni Hesus (Hand of Jesus), a healing center built under the initiative of Fr. Joseph Ayala Faller. In summer of 2012, my family and I went on Visita Iglesia in Quezon Province for the Easter season. During this trip, it is common to visit from seven to fourteen seven  churches, and uttering a certain prayer in each church. If I remember correctly, the number 7 refers to the seven last words by Jesus Christ, and the 14 to the Stations of the Cross. After the Visita Iglesia, it is believed that the prayer would be answered. Note: answered, not granted. 🙂

Here are some of the Churches we visited, which you might also consider visiting during your own Easter pilgrimage.

• Mother of Perpetual Help Parish, Candelaria, Quezon

• Parokya ni San Francisco ng Assisi, Sariaya, Quezon

• San Pedro Bautista Parish, Candelaria, Quezon

And last but not the least, the Kamay ni Hesus Healing Center.

Teeming with devotees especially during the Holy Week, Via Dolorosa Grotto of Healing and Purification is actually a steep hill transformed into a religious spot. Biblical figures and scenes are depicted as one moves on a journey from the foot of the hill and up.

The image above shows the Noah’s Ark House of Prayer, a venue for closed door retreats, recollections and seminars for people in need of spiritual renewal.

You will also find Adam and Eve (in the “Garden of Eden”) at the start of the 292-step path going up the hill.

Along the way are life-size statues of the 14 Stations of the Cross, and on top is a 50-foot statue of the Ascending Christ. This statue can be seen from miles away. The whole place is so picturesque, not to mention the kind of spiritual ambiance it gives to thousands of pilgrims and devotees.

 

I was awed to see how this place and the kind of spirituality it projects appeal to thousands of visitors. Despite the heat, people were determined to climb the hill and whisper their intentions to God.

The view on top was also astounding.

I hope I was able to give an idea of what and how the place was like. There were side-street vendors selling colorful hats, food items and souvenirs, in case you’re wondering. Tip: Just remember to bring a fan, water, umbrella, sweatshirt or towel and lots of faith and patience. God bless!