Our Lady of Manaoag

Last Saturday, we went to Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag (or simply Our Lady of Manaoag) in Pangasinan. Such a long travel from Bulacan. About 6-7 hours drive. Less than 200 kilometers trip. But we endure it all because we wanted to see the place and to experience what it is like to be there. Our Lady of Manaoag is one of the most visited churches in the Philippines. The history, which dated back in 17th century, explained that a native man on his way home heard the Virgin Mary calling him from the top of the tamarind tree instructing him to initiate the construction of the church. A chapel was then built on the spot where Mary appeared to the man and the present day town quickly grew around it.

Our Lady of Manaoag is said to be the patroness of the sick, protectress of the helpless, benefactress of the needy. Thousand of devotees flock and visits the church to say their petitions or prayers or wishes. And they say that The Lady of Manaoag is indeed miraculous. But miraculous or not, I am happy we went there and if only distance is not a problem, I would love to come back again as often as I could.

the front of the church

inside the church

the altar

The Lady of Manaoag holds a Rosary in her right hand and the Child Jesus in her left.

We took the chance to bless our 3rd hand van there too. 

...and say our wish and petitions by lighting a candle

this is the candle I lighted and my wish?

is for this little man to be safe, healthy, and happy ALL the time! :)