Last year, when COVID-19 hit, people celebrated Lenten season a little differently. Instead of doing traditional practices such as visiting churches, doing penance walks, and stopping by various pilgrimage sites, devotees and non-religious people observed Holy Week through online masses and virtual gatherings. But with the economy gradually reopening, you might be able to visit a few of the destinations to reflect on your faith.
Of course, visiting these sites still require social distancing and steering away from large crowds. You may go to these five destinations and plan your itinerary for a safer and more enjoyable Lent season experience.
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Antipolo
Dubbed as the “Pilgrimage Capital of the Philippines,” Antipolo is frequented by devotees of the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. Every year, people go to the Antipolo Cathedral to pray to and worship the blessed virgin. Visiting the cathedral might be the ideal situation for you to find solace and peace as you reflect on what happened last year and the start of this year. After seeking quiet and consolation at the Antipolo Cathedral, you can refresh yourself at the Hinulugang Taktak Falls.
Laguna
Laguna might not be your traditional site to visit during Holy Week. Still, the southern paradise offers many places to seek peace and quiet while also brushing up on your history. For example, you can visit sites such as Pagsanjan Falls, Rizal Ancestral House, and the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery. The province is also home to many hot spring resorts where you can unwind with the hot, relaxing water.
Pilgrims may also visit various churches in Laguna. Some of the churches you can visit for Visita Iglesia are Paete Church, St. Polycarp Parish, and Cathedral Parish of Saint Paul the Hermit. Another church is the San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, a colossal church in Biñan that is minutes away from Brentville International Community.
Bulacan
If you plan to witness processions of holy images, then Baliuag, Bulacan, is your destination. The municipality is home to one of the longest Holy Wednesday and Maundy Thursday processions in the Philippines. You’ll find grand carrozas carrying life-sized images of various saints paraded all over the town. This year, due to social distancing and safety restrictions, only a few visitors may come to the parade. However, it is still possible to watch this procession through your screen.
Manila
While it is a tradition for many to withdraw from city life during Lent, the capital region still has many spots to offer devotees and non-pious people to find peace and reflect on their faith. For instance, the City of Manila is home to many centuries-old churches: Quiapo Church, San Sebastian Church, Manila Cathedral, Santa Cruz Church, and Binondo Church. These places of worship are also close to historical sites that you can visit after offering your prayers and repenting of your trespasses.
Batangas
Batangas is notable for its pristine beach resorts that welcome hundreds of visitors every year. But the province is also a suitable place for observing Lent. For instance, the San Sebastian Church, or Lipa Cathedral, is a Romanesque church located close to Taal Lake. It is the current seat of the Archdiocese of Lipa. Another church you can visit is the Basilica de San Martin de Tours situated at the top of the old heritage town of Taal.
Whether you follow tradition or visit new destinations to observe Lent, it is essential to stay safe and follow social distancing while practicing your faith in God. Take time to visit these pilgrimage sites and find inner peace in your adventures.