Known to the Cebuanos as the "Birhen sa Simala", the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist became a sought-after pilgrimage site due to the miracles by the Blessed Virgin Mary that occurred there. This beautiful church is located in the town of Sibonga in Cebu Province, Philippines.
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| Monastery of the Holy Eucharist |
Monastery of the Holy Eucharist Details
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| Monastery of the Holy Eucharist - Sibonga town, Cebu Province |
On first glance, the monastery seems like a Buddhist temple because of its architectural design. However, the monastery is a pure Catholic establishment.
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| The image of San Miguel proves it's Catholic |
Found on top of the Marian Hills, visitors and pilgrims have to climb the countless stairs up to the actual monastery and church. However, before we check out what's inside the monastery, it would also be best to check out the things to see in its vicinity
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| Replica of the well of Nazareth |
On the left side after the entrance, you would see a bell hanging above a well. They say that the well is a replica of the Well of Nazareth. Most believe that when one throws a coin into the well and it hits the bell before falling into the well. The wish of that person would come true.
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| The shrine's entrance arch. |
You would also see several hilots or local reflexologists offering "healing massage therapies" using olive oil said to be blessed by the Blessed Mary. Aside from that, you would also see rentable cottages in the vicinity. There are also several locals selling amulets, candles, prayer cards, key chains, etc.
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| The first thing you'll see when you go up to the monastery |
Now, once you decide to proceed to the monastery, keep in mind to respect the solemnity of the monastery. You might be shocked that the tremendous noise outside is eclipsed by the soft prayers and murmurs of the devotees praying inside the monastery.
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| The miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary |
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| Check out the intricate images on the church ceiling |
It's a common sight to see: persons with disabilities, the terminally ill, broken-hearted people, the jobless, students about to take exams, and even professionals inside the monastery offering prayers to the Virgin Mary. In fact, there are several display cabinets that are filled up with pictures and items from people who experienced miracles done by the Blessed Mary.
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| The nuns here are really friendly |
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| Letters, pictures, and stuff from people who were helped by the Blessed Mary |
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| The different colors of the candles means different intentions |
They say when you visit a church for the first time, you are granted three wishes. I had that in mind when I visited the monastery.
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| One of the large statues of Mother Mary |
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| The Backpack Adventures visits the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist |
Like all first-time visitors, I never wasted my time asking for the three wishes. One of my wishes was to be a millionaire (LOL), next was to marry my girlfriend, and the last was to have a healthy, pretty baby someday.
I'm happy to share that as of 2024, all of these have been answered.
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| Wish come true, meet my baby girl, Antoniela Celestine |
Monastery of the Holy Eucharist Fees
It's FREE to enter and explore the shrine grounds.
Monastery of the Holy Eucharist Operating Hours
The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist is open from 8 AM to 6 PM daily.
Why visit the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist?
The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, commonly known as the Simala Shrine, is a renowned pilgrimage site in Sibonga, Cebu. Established in 1998 by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration, it has become a beacon for devotees seeking spiritual solace and miraculous healing. The shrine's majestic, castle-like architecture captivates visitors, while the revered image of the Virgin Mary, believed by many to have shed tears, inspires deep faith and devotion. Beyond its spiritual significance, the Simala Shrine offers a serene atmosphere for reflection, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Cebu's rich religious heritage.
Getting to the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist:
Airlines operate daily flights to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. From the airport, make your way to the South Bus Terminal and take a bus bound for Sibonga. Let the conductor know you’re heading to Birhen sa Simala, and they will drop you off at the appropriate stop. From there, you can take a motorcycle ride to reach the monastery.
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| For this trip, we rode a van, which was really convenient. |
Alternatively, you can opt for a van from the terminal, which offers a direct route to the monastery for a more convenient journey.
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çok büyüleyici
ReplyDeleteBir dahaki Kilise gezinde benim için de bir dilek diler misin
Please do visit this monastery. =) You would surely have wonderful experience.
DeleteAmazing architecture, it's surprising I've never heard of this monastery before!
ReplyDelete=) You see the Philippines is like a treasure waiting to be dug. Hope you could visit this place someday!
DeleteHi Neil, where can i find the terminal for the GT express van? Thanks! :)
ReplyDeleteHi there, you can check out the South Bus terminal near E-Mall.
DeleteThanks! we're going to Cebu next month and will definitely visit this awesome place. :)
DeleteHave fun and enjoy the sights! =)
Delete