Pilgrimage Update: Batanes With Fr. Lawrence Llona

20 Feb
Categories: Blog,

The pilgrimage began with a Mass at the Sto. Domingo de Guzman Church, also known as Basco Cathedral

Fr. Lawrence and our pilgrims visited the iconic Tukon Chapel (Mount Carmel Chapel), whose design is inspired by the traditional Ivatan stone house. Inside, the ceiling is covered by images of patron saints of Batanes painted by scholars of the Pacita Abad Center for Arts.

From Tukon Chapel, Fr. Lawrence and our pilgrims enjoyed a hearty lunch at the picturesque Fundacion Pacita.

Meditative prayers at Naidi Hills, where the group prayed the rosary.

Fr. Lawrence and our pilgrims went to Sabtang island, home to the most well-preserved villages and culture of Batanes.

In Sabtang, the group visited its major sights such as Savidug Village (traditional village flanked by Ivatan houses).

Morong Beach in Sabtang famous for the iconic Mahayaw Arc.

The Tinyan Viewpoint, a scenic spot that has rolling hills and a small trail leading to a dramatic seascape.

Pilgrims Jun and Gin Goc Ong were prayed for by Fr. Lawrence and fellow pilgrims for their upcoming wedding anniversary on February 9 at the San Jose de Obrero Church. After saying their marriage vows, their theme song was played as background music. They were so touched by the surprise, they both cried. A heart warming ceremony for everyone!

All couple-pilgrims renewed their wedding vows during Mass at the San Jose de Obrero Church also known as Ivana Church.

Alapad Hill and Rock Formation, a majestic sight to behold!

At the Tayid Light House, Fr. Lawrence and our pilgrims had morning prayers.

Still at Tayid Light House, Fr. Lawrence led the group in a blossom dance. Blossom dance is a meditative prayer in dance and exercise wherein your movements bring into your system God’s blessings and then you lift them up and spread the blessings to others.

“When we trust, we entrust… sa pananampalataya tayo ay tumataya”

~an excerpt from the homily of Fr. Lawrence Llona, SVD during Mass at the Church of the Miraculous Medal in Uyugan, Batanes

The last Mass was celebrated at the Church of the Miraculous Medal in Uyugan, Batanes.

A group photo at the iconic Marlboro Country, also known as Racuh a Payaman.

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