Today is the first day of the Holy Week or Semana Santa, a significant religious observance for the Roman Catholics and most Christian groups. And being a predominantly Christian nation, many Filipinos would be busy with church activities this week. The pious would fast, attend masses and processions; some would take the opportunity of the non-working holidays to go on vacation. I will be in Cebu for work and some R and R.
Although I'm not a Catholic, I have always been fascinated with old churches and rituals. This is the Bantay Church in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, also known as Sanctuary of Nuestra Senora de la Caridad and Shrine of Our Lady of Charity. This was one of the churches we visited during our Ilocos road trip that I forgot to post. This church houses the image of the Virgin Mary that is believed to be miraculous, and St. Augustine of Hippo, the Doctor of Grace. The original church was built in 1593 and considered as one of the oldest parishes in the Ilocandia. It is also famous for its scenic bell tower that sits on a hilltop; it was also used as a watch tower during World War II.
The church was built by Augustinian friars in 1593 and has survived many attacks during the Spanish colonial times, wars and calamities.
Truth, in matters of religion, is simply the opinion that has survived. ~ Oscar Wilde
Linking to Blue Monday
Wonderful and historical church.
ReplyDeleteThanks for dropping by, Luna.
I'm not Catholic either, but I do celebrate the risen Savior.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this blue-tiful post.
Happy Blue Monday, Luna.
safe travels this holy week. sometimes i wish work could also halt for holy week, but no.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pics. I've only been to Cebu once and I felt sad that my stay was too short, I was not able to explore the place.
ReplyDeleteMums
This is a beautiful church. Blessings, Debbie
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful old church!
ReplyDeleteLove the scenic bell tower.
Such lovely architecture.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shots!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your break. A beautiful church which no doubt will be very busy this week.
ReplyDeleteThat's a beautiful church. Love the red color of it, not like the other churches I've been too. Yes, it's going to be a busy week for the churches this week.
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