The National Shrine of Padre Pio
- Gary Chavez
- May 13, 2024
- 5 min read
Having grown up Catholic and been exposed to Eastern philosophies, coupled with life's experiences and lessons, I find myself as a blend of both Eastern and Western influences. My spirit is grounded not only by religious doctrines written by men but also by the challenges life presents.
I have had the opportunity to visit places of worship in the past, and last Sunday provided another opportune moment as my gym friends and I journeyed to the National Shrine of Padre Pio in Sto. Tomas, Batangas.
From L-R: Ikegami Honmonji Temple, Japan | Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple – Batam, Indonesia | A Hindu temple in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia | Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, Singapore | Kiu Siao Grand Taoist Temple, Manila | Durham Cathedral, UK
Waking up early on a Sunday morning isn't easy. Can you imagine dragging yourself out of bed with one eye open? Yep, that's me, haha! Despite feeling sleepy, prioritizing spiritual connection and spending time with good friends always comes first. I'm really grateful to be a passenger princess because I can't imagine commuting in the scorching heat! We drove an hour and a half from Cavite. The long drive was made bearable by lively and hilarious conversations about life, dating, and of course, friendly banter!
Amidst discussing deep excavations enough to host another subway station (start thinking cheeky, hahaha! wink wink), we exited SLEX via Sto. Tomas. I can't recall how many turns we took to reach the shrine; it felt like forever, honestly, or maybe I just expected a quick drive from the exit. We followed signs directing us to the shrine. Driving through the maze-like streets of Barangay San Pedro was a bit challenging. I'm glad I wasn't behind the wheel, or else I would have lost it!
We kept ourselves busy with more hilarious conversations about how dating could be a religious affair (start thinking cheeky AGAIN, hahaha! wink wink; my very religious and God-fearing readers will probably pelt me with stones, sorry!). Amidst laughter, we were greeted by the shrine's arch. Suddenly, everyone fell silent, as if someone had intentionally reminded us that we were about to enter a pilgrimage site and should probably steer away from risqué conversations from then on.
After finding a parking spot, we stepped out of the car. Like pilgrims, we prepared ourselves for prayer and contemplation under the unforgiving rays of the summer sun. We quickly located a shaded area within the shrine that also offered refreshing drinks and food for weary travelers in need of nourishment. Let me tell you, it was a scorching hot and humid afternoon! After guzzling what felt like a liter of water and dabbing with a few oil blotting papers, we unfurled our umbrellas, ready to start the day. Andoy had an umbrella from Belo Medical that screens UVA and UVB rays, so I sought shelter under his shade (my own sunscreen might not be enough, hehe...).
The National Shrine of Padre Pio is a renowned pilgrimage site for Catholics and devotees of Saint Padre Pio. It is dedicated to the Italian friar, Saint Padre Pio, who was canonized as a saint by Pope John Paul II in 2002. He is known for his piety, stigmata, and miracles. This religious site houses the saint's personal belongings, clothing, and items used during his lifetime, which are venerated by pilgrims who visit. Many believers come to the shrine seeking spiritual guidance, offering prayers, and participating in religious events and activities.
The shrine sits on a vast property, allowing for the construction of various prayer areas, meditation gardens, and other facilities for pilgrims. It features a modern architectural style with elements inspired by Italian designs. For example, the church boasts an oculus that floods light from above, while its open design allows for air circulation throughout the building.
A few steps behind the osteria is the Holy Water Sanctuary, a stone gazebo-like structure with the statue of the saint in the middle atop an overflowing water feature. The walls are dotted with candle racks where pilgrims can silently pray and give thanks. Stepping out of the sanctuary, to the left is an outdoor candle area, and right in front is a souvenir shop where you can buy religious trinkets. The compound is massive; trees and foliage are abundant, providing shade to visitors. Winding roads and stairs lead to manicured gardens filled with plants and flowers, offering rest for your eyes. How I wish it also offered a reprieve from the heat and humidity!
Since it was Sunday, we expected a crowd, and indeed, we saw flocks of people. However, it wasn't as large as I had anticipated. Perhaps the heatwave drove many people away, prompting them to stay indoors, either in malls or at home. Speaking of the heatwave, how can we stay safe from it? Let me provide a few pointers
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and cool. A thermos flask filled with cool drinking water is a must!
Dress Light: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics to stay comfortable.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun's harmful rays.
Stay Indoors During Peak Heat: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day and to seek shade when outside.
Cool Treats: Suggest enjoying cool treats like ice cream, smoothies, or cold fruits to stay refreshed.
Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Encourage them to check on elderly neighbors, family members, and pets to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated.
Know the Signs of Heat-related Illness: Check yourself if you feel any of the below: If you do feel any of the above, cool down, rest up and don't hesitate to seek help!
Heavy sweating and pale, clammy skin.
Fatigue, weakness, and dizziness.
Headache, nausea, or vomiting.
Fast and shallow breathing.
Rapid heartbeat or strong pulse.
Muscle cramps and spasms, usually in the legs or abdomen.
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
After hearing mass and few pictures after, we were ready for home, but before heading out into the road, we need lunch! A few meters away from the shrine is Batanguenos Lutong Bahay, a house converted to a chic roadside eatery serving home cooked meals for pilgrims and travelers alike. It offers an airconditioned dining experience (a must have in this climate!), a clean washroom, plenty of parking and good food! We stuffed ourselves crazy! Price is on point, we racked up PHP 2600-ish worth of food for a group of twelve. Yep sulit!
A few conversations about life, reflections over a cup of coffee is a good way of decompressing before going home. What a nice way to cap off the day!
Sometimes, life doesn't give us what we want; instead, the universe communicates with us through disappointments, connecting us with people who can help us and enabling us to see better things beyond our plans. Today is one of those days when the universe is telling me to stay still, connect with my spirit, and connect with my friends. I believe it's the universe's gentle way of saying, 'Hey! Don't rush. You're doing fine. There are many ways your dreams could unfold; just trust Me.'
If you ever need some time to express gratitude or to reflect, The National Shrine of Padre Pio is just an hour away from Manila. Simply take the SLEX Sto. Tomas exit. Have a great week ahead!
Love,
Tito Gary xxx
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