The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag

Mary’s Snow in Rome and a Tree in Manaoag

Wednesday, 23 May 2012 00:00 | Written by Administrator |

Surely it would appear strange to many that a parish in a hot tropical place like Centro-Enrile (formerly Cabug) in Cagayan be named under the patronage of Our Lady of Snows or Nuestra Senora de las Nieves.

How this Marian title originated is just as interesting to know as how two places of great geographical and cultural divide, the Liberian Ponitifical Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome and the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, Pangasinan, are now intimately associated.

Based on a medievel legend that became very popular in the 10th century, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to a certain John of Roman nobility and directed him to her chosen site, for him to construct the first temple in Rome dedicated to her.

As the story goes, during one hot summer on Aug. 5 in the 4th century, in order to affirm her wish, she miraculously showered down snow on the Equiline Hill where the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major (Santa Maria Maggiore) in Rome stands until today. Thus, from this popular account came about another Marian title, Sancta Maria ad Nives or Our Lady of Snows.

Last Updated (Thursday, 24 May 2012 16:19)

The Road to Rome via Manaoag

Friday, 27 April 2012 00:00 | Written by Administrator |

“All Roads Lead to Rome”

This English Proverb generally means that different paths can take one to a certain goal.

It may speak about the great civilization of Rome where at one time in history it conquered many countries. But for a Catholic - Rome is the center of power and authority in relation to one’s faith. There lies the seat of Peter the first Pope, in whom our Lord Jesus entrusted the keys of His Church. The authority of the Pope is unquestionable. “Whatever is bound on earth will be bound in heaven, whatever is loosed on earth will be loosed in heaven.” (Mt. 18:18)

For a pilgrim of faith who searches for truth and the will of God, Rome is the lighthouse that guides all the confused and weary travelers towards enlightenment and fulfillment. The Holy Spirit that descended upon the disciples is the everlasting inspiration that guides the Church towards the realization of God’s Kingdom here on earth. It is the same Holy Spirit that endows Rome with the grace to bestow blessings to strengthen its faithful towards true discipleship to Jesus.

Last Updated (Thursday, 24 May 2012 08:20)

Revisit and Relive God’s Love in the Paschal Chapel

Tuesday, 24 April 2012 00:00 | Written by Administrator |

The Paschal Mystery of Christ is His Passion, Death and Resurrection. It is through His sacrifice, death and glory that all men and women won their redemption and God is reunited with Man. This event was long awaited, the fulfillment of prophesies made long ago, and the very reason for joy and hope in the heart of every child of God.

It is no wonder then, that in the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, there is a chapel beside the Church that is dedicated to the Paschal Mystery of Christ. Man’s salvation was won through pain and glory more than 2000 years ago, but it did not end there… God continues to love, heal and renew our lives, and by revisiting His passion, death and resurrection, one is reminded of how intimate God’s love is. The images of the Nazareno, the Crucified Christ, Santo Entierro and the Resurrected Christ in the Paschal Chapel hopes to inflame a pilgrim’s heart to conversion and deep prayer.

Last Updated (Wednesday, 23 May 2012 17:46)