Nestled in the tranquil, rolling hills of Lindogon, Sibonga, on the southern part of Cebu, stands a magnificent and awe-inspiring structure that draws pilgrims and tourists from all over the world: the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, more popularly known as the Birhen sa Simala Shrine.

This imposing castle-like church is not just a testament to architectural grandeur but is also a deeply spiritual pilgrimage site, revered as the home of the miraculous image of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A visit here is more than a simple trip; it is an experience of faith, hope, and profound reverence.

The Experience in Birhen sa Simala: A Journey of Faith and Awe

The moment you arrive at the foot of the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, you are transported into a world that feels both sacred and majestic. The monastery is a stunning sight, with its grand, castle-like facade featuring towering spires, intricate stone carvings, and vibrant stained-glass windows. The architecture, reminiscent of European medieval castles, sets a tone of solemnity and grandeur that prepares you for the spiritual journey ahead.

Upon entering the grounds, visitors are immediately enveloped in a sense of order and peace. The journey to the main church building is a gentle ascent, with a long, paved walkway leading up to the entrance. Along this path, you’ll encounter a number of statues and religious symbols, each with a story to tell, inviting you to reflect on your faith.

The air is often filled with the murmurs of prayers and the hushed conversations of pilgrims, creating a palpable atmosphere of reverence.

The main draw of the Simala Shrine is the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, believed to be miraculous. The stories of her intercession—from healing the sick to answering prayers for a variety of intentions—have cemented the monastery’s reputation as a place of miracles.

The most popular stories are those of the Virgin Mary shedding tears, which have been witnessed on several occasions, further strengthening the faith of the devotees. Inside the church, a special area is dedicated to a display of crutches, wheelchairs, graduation diplomas, and various personal items left by devotees as testaments to the miracles they have received. This powerful visual display of answered prayers is a moving and humbling experience for every visitor.

The experience is deeply personal and reflective. Many visitors come with a specific intention, a prayer they wish to be answered, or a thanksgiving they want to offer. The quiet moments spent inside the church, with its soaring ceilings and beautiful altars, are opportunities for deep introspection and a quiet conversation with a higher power. It’s a place where one’s faith is not just a belief but a lived experience, surrounded by thousands who share the same sentiments.

What to Expect: Guidelines and Practical Reminders

A visit to Birhen sa Simala requires a certain level of preparation and an understanding of the rules and regulations in place to preserve the sanctity of the shrine.

Dress Code: The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist enforces a strict dress code. Visitors are required to wear appropriate attire that covers the shoulders and knees. This means no shorts, miniskirts, tank tops, or sleeveless shirts. This rule applies to both men and women. There are vendors outside the monastery who rent or sell shawls and sarongs, but it is best to come prepared. This is a sign of respect for the holy site.

Noisy Behavior and Littering: Visitors are expected to maintain silence and respect the solemnity of the place. Loud conversations, shouting, and unruly behavior are highly discouraged. Likewise, littering is strictly prohibited. The monastery is immaculately clean, and everyone is encouraged to help maintain this standard.

Photography: While photography is generally allowed in most areas of the monastery, it is strictly prohibited inside the main chapel and near the image of the Virgin Mary. It’s important to be respectful and mindful of others who are there to pray and reflect.

Offering Candles and Prayers: One of the most common practices for pilgrims is the lighting of colored candles, each color representing a different intention. There is a designated area for this, often located outside the main church. Visitors can purchase these candles and light them while offering a prayer. The colors and their meanings are clearly labeled, allowing devotees to pray for specific intentions such as good health, financial stability, or successful studies.

The “Wishing Well” and Other Veneration Areas: The monastery has designated areas for veneration and prayers. There is a “wishing well” where visitors can toss coins while making a wish, as well as a prayer wall where notes and prayers are left. These areas are part of the overall pilgrimage experience and are a way for devotees to express their faith.

Queuing: Due to the large number of visitors, especially during weekends and holidays, expect long queues. The lines can be long for the main chapel, where the image of the Virgin Mary is enshrined. Patience is key. The walk itself, with the stunning architecture and the solemn atmosphere, makes the wait worthwhile.

Church Services: A Spiritual Calendar

The monastery, run by the Marian Monks of the Eucharist, holds regular church services for pilgrims and devotees. Attending a mass here is a deeply spiritual experience, with the beautiful architecture and the peaceful environment enhancing the solemnity of the ceremony.

• Mass Schedules: While the schedule can change, masses are generally held at certain times of the day, especially on weekends. It’s best to check the official schedule or ask a local for the most recent times. The mass on a Sunday or a major religious holiday is a profound experience, with a large congregation filling the church.
• Confession: Confession services may also be available for pilgrims who wish to receive the sacrament of reconciliation. This is a great opportunity for spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with one’s faith.
• Eucharistic Adoration: As the name “Monastery of the Holy Eucharist” suggests, Eucharistic adoration is a central part of the monks’ spiritual life. Pilgrims can often find a quiet space for adoration, providing a chance for silent prayer and contemplation in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.

How to Get There: Navigating Your Way to Simala

Getting to the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist is a straightforward journey from Cebu City, with several transportation options available.

• By Bus: This is the most popular and budget-friendly option.
  • From the South Bus Terminal in Cebu City, take a bus bound for Sibonga. Ceres Liner and other local bus companies have regular trips to the south.
  • The bus ride takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic. Inform the conductor or driver that you are going to “Simala” or “Birhen sa Simala.” The bus will drop you off at the main road, near the intersection leading to the monastery.
  • From the drop-off point, you can hire a tricycle or a “habal-habal” (motorcycle taxi) to take you to the monastery. The fare for this short trip is usually very affordable, but it’s best to agree on the price beforehand.
• By V-hire (Van for Hire): V-hires are a faster alternative to buses.
  • You can find V-hires bound for Sibonga at the One Citilink Terminal in Cebu City.
  • The trip is usually quicker, taking about 1.5-2 hours. Like the bus, the van will drop you off at the main road, and you will need to take a tricycle or “habal-habal” to the monastery.
• By Private Car/Taxi: For maximum comfort and convenience, you can hire a private car or taxi for a round trip to Simala.
  • This is a good option for groups or families. It eliminates the hassle of multiple transfers and provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
  • Be sure to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand. It is common to agree on a fixed rate for the entire trip, including the waiting time. The total fare can range from ₱2,500 to ₱4,000, depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of your stay.
• By Guided Tour: Many travel agencies and tour operators in Cebu City offer guided day tours to Simala and other southern Cebu destinations.
  • This is the most hassle-free option, as it usually includes transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals.
  • This is a good choice for tourists who are not familiar with the area and want a seamless experience.

In conclusion, a visit to the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist in Simala is a multi-faceted experience that transcends a typical tourist outing. It is a pilgrimage, a cultural immersion, and a visual feast all rolled into one. The magnificent architecture, the moving testimonials of miracles, and the serene environment create a profound sense of peace and wonder. By understanding the rules, preparing for the journey, and opening one’s heart to the experience, every visitor can find a moment of grace and a deeper connection with their faith at the miraculous Birhen sa Simala Shrine.