The Holy Week is observed in the Philippines because this is predominantly a Catholic country. However as years passby, there are noticeable changes on how our society observe the Holy Week. More and more people are traveling and enjoying during this holy season rather than celebrating in a more traditional way.
On the other hand, I think if the holy season is the only chance a family can get together and travel, then there’s always a way to put two together.
My suggestion is travel and visit a place where you can commemorate the Passion of Christ at the same time feast on the serenity and beauty the place can offer together with your loved ones.
The nearest place to go to is at the Marian Orchard in Balete, Batangas. In this lovely place you may reflect on the Stations of the Cross.
The Stations
The stations grew out of imitations of Via Dolorosa inJerusalem which is believed to be the actual path Jesus walked toMount Calvary. The purpose of the stations is to help the Christians faithful to make a spiritualpilgrimagethrough contemplation of thePassion of Christ. It has become one of the most popular devotions in this country and other parts of the world.
Going back to my recommended place, the Marian Orchard has a series of 14 images arranged in numbered order along a hillside garden where you can reflect from one image to another and say the selected prayers.
Usually stations of the cross is done on Good Friday but I suppose this place will be very crowded. The orchard is huge though I cannot guarantee that it will not be overcrowded. It is located in Balete, Batangas, if you are driving take the Star Tollway and exit at Balete.
From the exit turn right and just drive straight, you will not miss it because its along the road.
I must warn you tnough, there is no parking space, you may park your car along the road at your own risk. The fee is Php50 per head which is quite affordable, I believe this fee is used to maintain the Orchard. Here are some of the photos taken on my last trip:
Welcome…
Map of the Orchard to help you navigate
A very lovely view to greet you
The flower garden leading you to the sanctuary of our Lady of Mediatrix
Playful angels to keep you cool even on a sunny day
That feeling of being in Athens
The singing bells
The path leading to the stations of the cross covered with Bougainvillea to keep you cool
The life size statues depicting the passion of Christ in each station
After the stations you may say prayers and thanks at the chapel
And after the pilgrimage you will feel that Christ is embracing your soul..
We have different ways to observe the Lenten Season at the end of the day what matters most is that we have done good deeds.
Have a blessed week to you and your family. I hope i was able to again share useful information.😊 Please hit like if I did. Thank you.
Niceties Of Life 