⛪ Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi – A Serene Stop in Naga City, Cebu

"A Quiet Gem That Invites You to Stay Longer"

📍 Naga City, South Cebu | 🛐 Patron Saint: St. Francis of Assisi | 💫 A beautiful side-trip on the way back from Simala Shrine

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✨ A Church That Caught My Eye — and Kept Me Inside

This is another church that stood out to me during our road trip to Simala. It had that distinct charm that made me quietly nudge Kuya Driver and ask, “Kuya, can we stop here on our way back?”

And we did.

Of all the churches I saw during our visit to Simala, I spent the most time here. Not just because it was open, but because something about it made me want to linger. Maybe it was the wooden sculpture in front of the altar, or the statue of St. Francis that drew me in with its peaceful energy.

I found myself absorbing the silence, saying a prayer, and taking time to really appreciate the church’s interior — something I couldn’t do in some of the others. It felt like a small reward for making that quick stop.

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🛐 About the Shrine

• This shrine is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, known for his deep spirituality, love for nature, and humility
• The church is beautifully maintained and designed with a blend of traditional and local elements
• It’s recognized as an Archdiocesan Shrine — a title given to churches of significant spiritual and historical importance in the Archdiocese

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📝 What to Look Out For

🔸 A striking wooden altar sculpture — a rare and handcrafted detail
🔸 A statue of St. Francis that seems to welcome visitors with open arms
🔸 Peaceful interiors that allow for quiet reflection and prayer

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💡 Tips for Visitors

📷 Take time to explore churches beyond Simala — you might find gems like this.

⏱️ Stopovers don’t have to be quick. If a place calls to you, stay a little longer.

🧎‍♀️ Always be respectful — light a candle, offer a prayer, or simply appreciate the space.

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🧭 How to Get There

• Location: Along the national highway in Naga City, South Cebu
• Access: Ideal for a stop when returning from Simala Shrine by private vehicle or tour van
• Parking: Available in front of the church

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📣 Sometimes, the churches you didn’t plan to visit become the ones you remember most. Let your curiosity guide you — and your soul might just thank you for it. 🙏