Visita Iglesia 2012

This is the first time my husband tried to do a Visita Iglesia. I told him that in our family, it's an annual tradition where we embark on a journey with nothing but our prayer books and a good meal in tow. It makes our family closer and what better to express family bonding than through a journey of prayer, right?

So I asked my husband if we could do a Visita Iglesia this year. He was hesitant at first because we don't have a car yet. I said that it's okay to commute as long as Zeke's not too exposed to the harsh heat.

He agreed but on a few conditions-
1) The Churches that we will visit should be somewhere near (err, I was thinking of visiting Manila churches but there's always next year)
2) We stick to seven churches (12 churches on my little piece of paper)
3) No complaining (I ain't gonna say anything)

Maundy Thursday, at exactly 15-minutes after 9 in the morning, we embarked on our little journey.

powernap!

Visita Iglesia in the Philippine setting, means visiting seven churches on Maundy Thursday to follow the Way of the Cross or the Stations of the Cross. Traditionally, two stations are contemplated per church, but more enthusiastic ones though complete the stations for each church. In my little family, my husband and I have decided to follow the seven church pattern as we have a little kid in tow.

Before going to the seven churches, here is a list of a few things that you need to bring:

1. Stations of the Cross booklet
2. feeding bottles, milk and a few biscuits for your baby
3. sando and shorts change of clothes
4. a few blankets
5. nappies, powder and wipes
6. water
7. toy for long drives
8. munchies for you and your hubby

The Seven Churches we visited today were:

San Isidro Labrador Parish in Marikina Heights, Marikina City

Immaculate Concepcion Parish in Concepcion Uno, Marikina City

Our Lady of the Abandoned Parish in Sta. Elena, Marikina City

San Antonio de Padua Parish in Calumpang, Marikina City

Monasterio de Santa Clara in Katipunan, QC

Church of Gesu in ADMU, QC

Maria dela Strada Parish in Loyola, QC

As you can see, all the churches we've visited were in the same area (as I have promised my husband). It's not about sight-seeing (which may be included but not necessarily important); it's about praying with your family, remembering what Jesus Christ has done for us, to save us and because, He loved us all so very much.

Remember, when you do your Visita Iglesia, do the Stations of the Cross but don't forget to visit the place where they keep the blessed sacrament. Pray and reflect this Holy Week.