Visiting Padre Pio Shrine - my favorite walk so far for the year 2023

As I mentioned in my previous blogs, the husband is a more religious type than I. He would often attend holy mass, visit famous churches and join novenas. Might be ashamed, but though I am Catholic, I frequently go to church only when the husband is here.🤣

For today, let me take you for a walk to one of the famous Shrine here in South Luzon, Padre Pio.

Who is Padre Pio?

He is an Italian saint that was canonized last June 16, 2002. Well-known for having a stigmata, scars and bodily wounds that pains and pains the same in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Even Though the shrine is far from the city, many devotees came to visit to pray for heart worries, heart desires etc. One of my officemates was a devotee and would often tell her testimony. She got pregnant after ten years of marriage and name their son Pio. Source.

Initially, the schedule was weekend but since we are trying to avoid crowds, it would be better on weekdays. The good thing here was a mass schedule everyday, from 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Source

We are not that far but I am anticipating road congestion, so we left early. Just enough to attend 10AM mass.

Just like other religious places, proper dress code should be worn at all times. To properly direct the devotees that bring their cars, the lane for entrance and exit was implemented.

From the gate, you need to walk for a little while going to the building where masses were held. Thus, you will be greeted by this big statue of Jesus Christ.

You will also happen to pass by in this building at your right where you purchase religious novelties.

I don't have a plan to buy since it's not my first time going here plus the weather was so humid. It was like I was bathing with my sweats already though the sky was cloudy! The husband and I continue walking till we reach the Arch.

Looking around, I could say we made the right decision as there are only a few church goers. We reached thirty minutes before ten in the morning, quite the perfect time. No long waiting period.

One thing that I love here is the Bell tower, the design is unique and gives a foreign vibes.

The management allows church goers to get inside at the top of the tower where you can see the 360 degree view of the whole place. You just need to purchase some Novelty product amounting to $0.01.
Thus, during our visit I forgot to ask. Besides, it Seems the heavy rain is about to land so we are quite in hurry to go home after the mass.

In front of the tower are spacious churches. Yes, not only one but there were two. In between the alley was covered and several benches were placed to accommodate a number of people.

Outside the Jubilee of Mercy several statues of different Saints were standing in line. So far this was added from the last time I went here. That was last year.

At the right side of the tower was the path going to fountain of hope, holy water sanctuary, chapel of lights and the relic of the holy cross.

The Relic of the Holy Cross

At the back was off limits as it is where the Bishops lives

I am an independent woman and walking is just an easy pie but I also love to have someone to hold my hand directing me where. Am I cheesy today, lol allow me please, just miss myloves and just savoring the moment.

This was one of the best walks that I had for this year not because of the place but because I had him by my side. How happy am I? Hehe, the picture below says;

Took this photo near the fountain of hope using the camera 5mins timer.

The Fountain of Hope.

Few walks away was the Holy Water Sanctuary where you can get free holy water at the fountain. However when I checked it was closed as maintenance was ongoing. Thus, to those who wanted to get water, two water jugs were placed outside.

After, you may proceed to the Chapels of lights. If you don't have candles or bottles with no, that's not a problem as there was a small store just a few steps away.

The pilgrimage site was wide, with a lot of trees and a fresh and peaceful ambiance.

Also, if you are someone who is a religious type and wanted to find peace in your heart, this place is perfect for you. Healing mass is every Saturday.
If happened you came in a group and bought car with you, parking space was not a problem. There were two huge parking areas and it was free.

Hello everyone, I hope you all have a great time just like in my end as of the writing!
Today Wednesday, as usual, I'm sharing my entry in #wednesdaywalk hosted by @tattoodjay and I hope I made you smile by @elizacheng.

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Lead image was edited using Canva
All photos are mine
Footer credit to Sensiblecast