The Diocese of Antipolo is inviting the faithful to visit the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage (Antipolo Cathedral) as the pilgrimage season begins.
Diocese of Antipolo Bishop Ruperto C. Santos said the pilgrimage season is “an opportune time to experience the rich culture and traditions of the diocese.”
The pilgrimage season, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and devotees, began on the first Tuesday of May (May 7) and ends on the first Tuesday of July (July 2).
“I would like to extend my warm invitation to everyone. Come and be part of a pilgrimage starting the First Tuesday of May until the First Tuesday of July. You can come as a group of family or friends. Within this timeframe, you can spend a moment for your own reflection, personal prayer, and petitions,” said Bishop Santos in a statement.
The revered Our Lady of Antipolo was brought on a pilgrim visit to the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno (Quiapo Church) on April 30 as a prelude to the start of the pilgrimage season.
Thousands of devotees likewise joined the Walk for Peace that brought back the miraculous image from the Quiapo Church to the country’s first international shrine.
“I believe this pilgrimage will be inspiring as it will deepen your faith, allowing our Blessed Mother to protect us and point us even more to her Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, urging us to ‘do whatever He tells you (John2:5),” said Bishop Santos.
The Church leader expressed hope for the Antipolo Cathedral to become the pilgrimage capital of the Philippines and to further spread awareness on the age old devotion to the Virgin of Antipolo.
The diocese said activities during the pilgrimage season include novena masses, processions and the Laudate Mariam Concert at the Antipolo Cathedral on July 8.
Bishop Santos will preside over the concluding mass at the end of the pilgrimage season in July.