Considered to be one of the most sacred observances in the Catholic faith - Holy Week is a time for meditation, prayer, and remembrance of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.  As the country commemorates Holy Week, many Catholic devotees are expected to take part in the tradition of Visita Iglesia.

In the province of Cavite, several centuries-old churches offer a space for prayer and reflection.

Known for its long history and devotion to miracles, the Diocesan Shrine of Saint Augustine and Parish of the Holy Cross in Tanza, Cavite, is one of the churches frequently visited during the annual Visita Iglesia. “Itong parish namin was established August 29, 1780. Thousands — napupunong mabuti ito — usually mga buses na dumadating. Our patron is Saint Augustine. Through the years, the devotion has spread and has become very strong because of the many miracles attributed to him,” Rev. Fr. Virgilio Saenz Mendoza shared.

In Bacoor, Cavite, Catholic devotees visit the St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church. Established in 1752 , the church is considered as one of the earliest parishes in the province.

Also drawing pilgrims is the 400-year-old Diocesan Shrine and Parish Church of Santa Maria Magdalena in Kawit. According to Shrine Ministry head Eric Encarnacion, the church leadership has prepared for the expected influx of visitors this Holy Week.
“We expect a huge number of visitors. Every year, we receive thousands of pilgrims from different places. And now, as part of the 400th-year celebration of the church’s foundation, more people have shown interest in visiting our shrine,” Encarnacion said.

In Cavite City, a popular stop is the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of the Solitude of Porta Vaga, founded in 1586. The church is home to the revered and miraculous image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known as the “Queen of Cavite.” Ambette Muncal, chairman of the Commission on Readers, said the church has been receiving many visitors.

Pilgrims may also visit the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Pillar, built in 1795. Commonly known as the Imus Cathedral, it serves as the seat of the bishop of the Diocese of Imus.

Another must-visit is the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, a 180-year-old church in Rosario, Cavite.

In General Trias City, devotees may visit the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church. Established in 1611, it was one of the bases used by Spanish missionaries to spread Christianity in the country.

For many Catholics, Visita Iglesia is a meaningful way to reflect on their faith and express love and sacrifice during Holy Week.

Devotees like Ernesto Urdani III make it a yearly mission to visit different churches during this time. “As a Catholic, we observe 40 days of preparation and sacrifice during Lent. That’s why we fast and reflect. This is a time to deepen our faith,” he shared.

(Production:  Ganiel Krishnan, Ricky Bautista, Gigie Cruz, ABS-CBN News)