🙏 A Journey of Faith with My Devout Nanay
Though I had already explored Cebu, I only discovered The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, or more popularly, Simala Shrine, when planning a special trip with my devout Catholic Nanay (Mom) and my sisters. Knowing how much she loves visiting old churches, I added Simala to our itinerary—and I’m so glad I did.
Located in Marian Hills, Lindogon, Simala, Sibonga, this majestic shrine has grown into one of Cebu’s most miraculous and iconic religious sites. Built in 1998 by the Marian Monks from Pampanga, the Simala Church continues to attract thousands of devotees and curious travelers every year.
🕊️ Why Visit Simala Shrine?
💧 Miraculous Mama Mary
Simala Shrine is renowned for the image of the Blessed
Virgin Mary said to have shed tears, with many devotees claiming healing
and answered prayers. It has earned the nickname “Miraculous Mama Mary
Church.”
🏰 Castle-like Beauty
The architectural grandeur of the shrine—resembling a
European castle—is awe-inspiring. With its columns, walkways, towers, and
landscaped gardens, this place feels like a spiritual fortress.
⛪ Marian Monks
The shrine is cared for by the Marian Monks of
Eucharistic Adoration, who built this sacred place through faith, prayer,
and dedication.
✍️ Prayer & Reflection
Visitors are invited to light candles, write letters
to Mama Mary, and spend time in peaceful reflection. A museum on-site
also showcases her miraculous history and religious artifacts.
📷 Visitor Guidelines
Please remember that Simala is a sacred site, not just a tourist destination.
Follow these rules:
🚫 No flash photography in
sacred areas
👗
Dress modestly — avoid mini skirts, sleeveless tops, or see-through clothing
🧣
Bring or rent a shawl (₱20)
if needed
🚭
No smoking, drinking, or loud noises
👣
Remove footwear before entering the prayer room
🕯️ Candle Colors and Their Meanings
At the souvenir shop, candles (₱35 each) are sold in various colors to match your prayer intentions:
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 🤍 White | Purity, guidance, right path |
| 💛 Yellow | Peace, courage, hope |
| 💜 Violet | Life plans, journeys, struggles |
| ❤️ Red | Love, unity, family, friendship |
| 💖 Pink | Thanksgiving, happiness |
| 🧡 Orange | Reconciliation, relationships |
| ⚪ Gray | Deliverance from bad spirits |
| 💚 Green | Prosperity, success, exams |
| 🟡 Gold | Healing, spiritual or physical |
| 🤎 Cream | Conversion, strengthening faith |
| 🟫 Brown | Vocation, life purpose |
| 💙 Blue | Career, promotion, perseverance |
| 🖤 Black | Souls, forgiveness of the departed |
📜 What to Do at Simala Shrine
- 🕊️ Offer Prayers & Light Candles before Mama Mary’s image
- ✍️ Write a Letter to Mama Mary in the designated prayer room
- ⛪ Attend a Holy Mass (see schedule below)
- 🏰 Stroll the Grounds and admire the architecture
- 🖼️ Visit the Museum for a glimpse of Marian artifacts
- 🤲 Spend Time Reflecting in peaceful corners
- 🛍️ Shop for Religious Souvenirs like rosaries and prayer guides
⏰ Simala Shrine Mass Schedule (as of 2025)
- Weekends – Morning to evening masses
- Monday to Thursday– 6:30AM, 7:00AM & 6:30PM
- Friday – Multiple Masses including early morning and afternoon services
- 13th of the Month – 10:30 AM & 3:30 PM
🕗 Opening Hours:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎟️
Entrance Fee: Free (as of July 2024)
🚍 How to Get to Simala Shrine from Cebu City
- From Cebu South Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Sibonga (🕒 2.5 hours).
- Tell the conductor you're heading to Simala Shrine — they’ll drop you off at the right spot.
- From there, take a tricycle or walk to the shrine.
🚐 Tip: We rented a van for our trip. It was more comfortable for my mom and sisters. A round-trip van rental costs around ₱2,000–₱3,000, but it’s worth it for groups or elderly passengers.
🕯️Simala Shrine is not just another tourist spot—it’s a place of miracles, healing, and deep devotion. Whether you visit for prayer or just to admire the architecture, remember to be respectful. For many, this is holy ground, and every step taken here is an act of faith.
📸 If you’re planning a Cebu itinerary, make sure Simala Shrine is on your list. It’s a spiritual experience that leaves a lasting impact—especially if you bring your loved ones with you.
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