"Exploring the Miraculous Site of Simala Church"
The castle-like Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, also known as Our Lady of Lindogon Shrine, more commonly known as Simala Parish Church, is a beautiful and spiritual destination proudly nestled on the Marian Hills Ligondon Sibonga, Cebu, Philippines. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics and tourists alike, thanks to the presence of the miraculous Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Simala, also known as the "Miraculous Mama Mary."
On our recent visit to Simala Parish Church, there were many people because it was days before the celebration of the Sinulog Festival, so we already kind of expected it. But I am still surprised by the stunning beauty of the Monastery.
As soon as I entered the gate going to the Monastery, I was struck by the magnificent view of Simala's castle-like structure. It's a sweeping architecture of columns and terraces that surrounds the area.
The first thing we did upon entering the Monastery was falling in line to meet, kiss, and pray to the Virgin Mary. It is a long line because there are a lot of people who wanted to meet and kiss the Virgin Mary. As we go inside the Monastery, we saw a lot of patron saint statues, and letters from locals who believed to have been healed and helped by the Blessed Virgin Mary. There are pictures, wheelchairs, calculators from graduates, etc.
And at some point we took our shoes offs because shoes, slippers, and sandals aren't allowed inside.
After we met and prayed to the Virgin Mary, we bought and lit different colors of candles symbolizing different needs. We offered prayers with the colored candles, we lit the candle specifically colored pink for happiness.
You can also see the landscape garden with the words: "WE LOVE MAMA MARY", beside the votive candle stand.
As of the moment, the gardens are completely off limits mainly because of the construction around it, but you can still enjoy the beautiful scenery.
It was a sudden and short visit, but it was an amazing and stunning experience, from the Monastery's castle-like structure, serene atmosphere, and replicas of the Blessed Virgin Mary to souvenirs. I and my family had a great and memorable experience.