The very first time I visited the Monastery of the Holy Eucarist in Simala back in 2009, it was just a one-story church that could only fit the regular number of church-goers. I could say that I've witnessed this place grew through the years - the improvements on the structure of the monastery, the growing number of the devotees and the growing list of answered prayers.
Located at Marian Hills Lindogon, Simala, Sibonga, Cebu, the monastery is more or less 2-hour drive from Cebu City. If you're commuting, just ride any bus going to Argao and beyond at South Terminal Bus Station. The monastery is known as the house of the blessed Virgin Mary that shed tears first in 1998. Nowadays, devotees after devotees visit this haven everyday, especially on weekends and holidays.
Located at Marian Hills Lindogon, Simala, Sibonga, Cebu, the monastery is more or less 2-hour drive from Cebu City. If you're commuting, just ride any bus going to Argao and beyond at South Terminal Bus Station. The monastery is known as the house of the blessed Virgin Mary that shed tears first in 1998. Nowadays, devotees after devotees visit this haven everyday, especially on weekends and holidays.
The monastery keeps on making improvements and expansions due to the donations given by the devotees whose prayers were granted or answered. Thus, visitors now have sheds where they could rest or even have some picnic of the food they've brought.
Tips for the first-timers:
- Girls shouldn't wear short shorts or skirts and sleeveless blouses; Guys shouldn't wear muscle-sleeve shirts.
- Bring water, umbrella or cap. The heat could become unbearable especially during the midday.
- Barefoot is required inside the monastery.
- It's a sacred place. Silence must be observed at all times.
- Girls shouldn't wear short shorts or skirts and sleeveless blouses; Guys shouldn't wear muscle-sleeve shirts.
- Bring water, umbrella or cap. The heat could become unbearable especially during the midday.
- Barefoot is required inside the monastery.
- It's a sacred place. Silence must be observed at all times.
In the museum, they've the display of the different faces of the Virgin Mary, alongside her gowns, crowns and rosaries used over the years, especially during her shedding of tears. Here you can also read the prediction of an old man about the rise of a monastery in Marian Hills, with the list of people and their signatures who were witnesses at this time.
One of my friends I brought in the monastery even said it looks incredible and the structure is Prague-like. For me, it may not be as grand as the structures in Prague, but the inner peace brought by visiting and praying here is more than enough reason for me to keep coming back and convince people to check this place out. It's definitely worth the trip.
Adventure Tip: Next to Sibonga is the town of Argao. As a side trip, you may want to check out the town's Nature Park and Riverstone Castle, entrance fees of 5PHP and 40PHP, respectively.
Adventure Tip: Next to Sibonga is the town of Argao. As a side trip, you may want to check out the town's Nature Park and Riverstone Castle, entrance fees of 5PHP and 40PHP, respectively.
Some adventures would help you find inner peace. Don't disregard them. - KM