Religion is always a hot topic for discussion, debate and scrutiny. With millions and millions of religions sprouting worldwide, people would not run out of things to say about it. I do have many things to talk about my religion and since we are entitled of our own opinion, biases, views, beliefs, practices and anything that goes regarding it, then I guess you'll just respect what I am about to express, as I will and will always respect anything about yours. Clear?
When I relocated here in Cebu, I was amazed by the devotion of Catholics, which of course is apparent owing to the fact that this is the birthplace of the religion in the country. But seriously, I've never been into a place where people are as religious as Cebuanos are. And I was easily influenced. Not that I'm not religious (I'm a catechist at home teaching little children during summer) but I am not that devotee, maybe because our home is way too far from the church, which is unacceptable, but inevitable in reality if one has no money to pay for fares. A big difference also is that churches are everywhere here compared to where I came from. Here, people make it a habit to observe religious practices citing the jovial fiesta celebration as a great example.
When I came here to work and review for the board examinations, I was like transformed. I attended mass every Sunday and won’t even spare Fridays or Wednesdays schedule. I recalled the priest said one homily; some of the most religious people to attend masses are the ones who will take the board examinations. Partly, I was guilty then. Though, it would be quite justifiable (quite only) since taking the exam would mean studying a payload of subjects, hard work and a whole lot of prayers and guidance and strength from Him. Physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, you must be prepared for it to aim for a take one. Take two means undergoing the same grueling ride all over again which is a torture already.
Though I’ve accepted my fate already that passing was like finding a needle in hay since I am working and self-reviewing at the same, I remain as faithful and as dedicated. Then about three weeks before the examinations and during a casual talk with my coworker named Ate Josie, she mentioned to me a place – a place where faith prevails and wishes and prayers come true. Upon hearing it, I was quite intrigued. Could there be a place like that? Then she told me that she will go with me in there so that we’ll have our solemn prayer and ask for blessing prior in taking the examination. Together with us was another colleague, a fellow engineer who was about to take the board exam on a later date.
Going there was not easy thinking that we came from far north. The place was located in the opposite far south. We traveled even before the sun rose and reached our destination about 4 and a half hour later. But all our efforts were greatly paid off when we’re greeted by a very beautiful sight. Amidst the mountains and overlooking the sea in Brgy. Simala, Lindogon, Municipality of Sibonga, stood the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist where a big statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary welcomes the visiting pilgrims. My impression of the place was far from what I’ve expected; it was refreshing, overwhelming and relaxing. After months of preparation and feeling already the pressure, for a moment I felt peace. It’s no Placebo Effect. It’s for real. When I finally went inside and prayed with Mama Mary I feel all my tear ducts are about to explode in trying to hold back my tears. My prayer was intense, heart-filled and desperate and silently, I wrote my petition. And I prayed even more during the mass. That sunny morning in a place called Simala, I’ve surrendered my fate and asked for a miracle.
When I came here to work and review for the board examinations, I was like transformed. I attended mass every Sunday and won’t even spare Fridays or Wednesdays schedule. I recalled the priest said one homily; some of the most religious people to attend masses are the ones who will take the board examinations. Partly, I was guilty then. Though, it would be quite justifiable (quite only) since taking the exam would mean studying a payload of subjects, hard work and a whole lot of prayers and guidance and strength from Him. Physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, you must be prepared for it to aim for a take one. Take two means undergoing the same grueling ride all over again which is a torture already.
Though I’ve accepted my fate already that passing was like finding a needle in hay since I am working and self-reviewing at the same, I remain as faithful and as dedicated. Then about three weeks before the examinations and during a casual talk with my coworker named Ate Josie, she mentioned to me a place – a place where faith prevails and wishes and prayers come true. Upon hearing it, I was quite intrigued. Could there be a place like that? Then she told me that she will go with me in there so that we’ll have our solemn prayer and ask for blessing prior in taking the examination. Together with us was another colleague, a fellow engineer who was about to take the board exam on a later date.
Going there was not easy thinking that we came from far north. The place was located in the opposite far south. We traveled even before the sun rose and reached our destination about 4 and a half hour later. But all our efforts were greatly paid off when we’re greeted by a very beautiful sight. Amidst the mountains and overlooking the sea in Brgy. Simala, Lindogon, Municipality of Sibonga, stood the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist where a big statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary welcomes the visiting pilgrims. My impression of the place was far from what I’ve expected; it was refreshing, overwhelming and relaxing. After months of preparation and feeling already the pressure, for a moment I felt peace. It’s no Placebo Effect. It’s for real. When I finally went inside and prayed with Mama Mary I feel all my tear ducts are about to explode in trying to hold back my tears. My prayer was intense, heart-filled and desperate and silently, I wrote my petition. And I prayed even more during the mass. That sunny morning in a place called Simala, I’ve surrendered my fate and asked for a miracle.
Mama Mary
Below the mountains is the vast sea
The castle like shrine on top of the mountain
Fast forward, I passed the board exam as well as my fellow engineer who also went there. Coincidence? My faith told me otherwise. I indeed experienced a miracle. So was my colleague, and so were the many others whose testimonials and letters were displayed on one side of the church, as witnesses also of miracles. Prayers do come true if you ask for it, if you dedicate for it, if you believe in it. Religion is just the platform to exercise your faith but it is on how you believe in God and on His miracles that determines who you are and who you will become. So keep the faith!
