Marian devotion, heritage appreciation in Pangasinan pilgrimage

MANILA, Philippines - Marian devotees joining the pilgrimage of Green Faith Travels in Pangasinan on Saturday, Oct. 27, will appreciate not only the papal blessings they will receive from visiting the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag and the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist in Dagupan City, but also the rich history of the heritage church of Calasiao.

 Known as the Parish Church of Saints Peter and Paul, one of only 33 colonial churches declared a “National Cultural Treasure” in the country by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Baroque-style church of Calasiao was richest in ornaments among churches in Pangasinan by late 19th century. With Lingayen destroyed during the Second World War, the church also temporarily housed the Cathedral and Archbishop’s palace.

 The second oldest church in Pangasinan is presently undergoing repair but its structure and ornaments were well-preserved, including its centuries-old artifacts, painted ceilings, a Baroque-rendered retablo (altar), and convent.

 Across the church is the Shrine of Señor Divino Tesoro (Divine Treasure), the “most divine image of our Lord Jesus Crucified” venerated by the faithful who have received or are seeking His divine help and blessings, which the pilgrims will also visit.

 Pilgrims may also seek and gain plenary indulgence, among other spiritual benefits, when they visit and pray at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Cathedral of Saint John. Both were granted the “Special Bond of Spiritual Affinity” in April 2011 and February 2012, respectively, by two of only four papal basilicas in the world: Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major and Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls.

 Pilgrimage tour cost of P2,500 per person includes round-trip transport via air-conditioned tourist bus, breakfast, lunch, snacks, water, juice packs, a pilgrim’s kit with two blessed candles from the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag. Deadline for payment of registration fee is on or before Wednesday, Oct. 17.

 For information, call Judit Mangahis and Edwin Galvez at 0917-667-2942 or 0928-431-2087, e-mail greenfaithtravels@gmail.com and greenfaithtravels@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook.com/greenfaithtravels.