A Pilgrim’s Heart, Lifting Prayers. My Journey to Simala Shrine, CEBU, PH.

Last February, I finally got to visit Simala Shrine in Sibonga, Cebu. It was my first time, and I was so excited because I had always seen pictures of it online. I have heard so many stories about how miracles happen there, so I really wanted to see it for myself.

The trip was a bit long and a bit costly, but I didn’t mind. I booked five tickets for myself, for my partner, and for my son, and two for my sister and his son from Mindanao to Cebu. It was after my hospitalization that I vowed to visit the popular Simala Shrine or also known as the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist.

The moment I saw the castle-like church from afar, I felt happy and amazed. It looked like a fairy tale castle on top of a hill. The feeling of excitement was different as I watched it from below. The clouds above the castle looked like heaven to me. I saw people climbing the stairways up to the castle, and I wanted to climb too, as fast as I could.

When I entered the shrine, I felt peaceful right away. There's something about the place that made me calm and feel serenity within. The place was so clean and calm, and I saw many people lining up on the stairs and pathway to enter the castle. There were old men and women, there were children and infants, and mostly tourists coming from other places, just to visit the shrine.

We went inside and lined up to see the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. I prayed for my family, my friends, and my dreams. I prayed for Jeff, I hope he will talk soon. I prayed for the family's good health and for career stability. I also wrote my wishes and dropped them in the box. I saw many letters and pictures on the walls, proof that many prayers were answered. It made me feel hopeful.

We also attended the morning mass held at the chapel of the shrine itself. The chapel was an elegant structure accented with gold and silver. The design was very European, and it was a warm and peaceful spot where Mass where celebrated. The mass was very grand and holy, especially when we received the body of Christ; that felt so different.

After praying, we walked around the shrine. The view was so nice. The wind was cool, and I took many pictures. There were candles of different colors for different prayers, so we bought a few and lit them too.

Before going home, I bought some souvenirs and holy items to remind me of my visit. Puto Bongbong outside the Shrine was extremely delicious! My son loved it! We left Simala Shrine with a lighter heart and a thankful spirit.

Visiting Simala Shrine for the first time was truly special for us. We hope to come back again someday to thank Mama Mary for all the blessings. If you haven’t been there yet, I really recommend you to visit Simala Shrine. It was not just a trip; it was a prayer come true.