To be honest, the one time that Our Lady of Manaoag really stuck into my head was when I heard of her from my upperclassmen. They said that the alumni of my school always pay her a visit after the B-exams. However, that was not the only time that I had been acquainted to her. My parents were the first ones within our family to be her devotees. They paid her a visit in 2014 while on their way for a work related venture.
I made it my mission to actually see her and her church before leaving Luzon. I didn't want to break a tradition but most importantly, I just wanted to thank every entity in the guise of Mama Mary for helping through November last year.
Initially, I planned to go on my own. I have already checked some travel blogs on how to get there and I even had a bus ride ticket bound for Pangasinan reserved. However, some of the people whom I told about my plan were a little worried that I would travel on my own. That brought me to the decision to share my plan to my relatives living in Manila City. I was a bit hesitant with this idea at first because I didn't want to bother any of them as they maybe busy with work. To my surprise, they also wanted to go!
We were a bunch when we went there. We left early in the morning in a relative's vehicle. That was really exciting because I had not traveled in awhile and I was with my relatives which was very comforting. When we arrived, I was in awe of the church. It seemed like it sits on top of a hill. I was a bit nervous that the van wouldn't be allowed at the entrance. Somehow, I just assumed we could get in before we even got there. My grandma who already has difficulty in walking was with us. Fortunately, we were allowed to park at the open space just beside the entrance. Thank heavens!
It was such a blessing in disguise that we arrived at noon. A mass was held a couple of minutes after we entered the church. It was their last mass that morning. Such coincidence really felt miraculous on my part. The timing could never be more perfect. It was like we were meant to be where we were at that moment. I was contentedly happy when I was there.
On our way back, we had a few stops. We bought bags of Tupig which were delicious! We enjoyed a hearty meal. I couldn't
thank my relatives enough for letting me tag along with them in this journey.
I thought the trip would be impossible a few days ago but I just knew I had to try and see her. I'm so blessed I was able to. I only pray that she hears my heart.
Note: Photographs are taken by nmbntplg and edited through FIMO app.
