Rest and recreation are essential components of our overall well-being. After the first term of the new school year, I feel incredibly fortunate to spend my break surrounded by family and friends. This time not only allows for relaxation but also serves as an opportunity for reflection and strengthening our bonds. R&R are vital for maintaining both physical health, mental well-being as well as fostering social connections.
November 23 - Feast of St. Columban
Celebrating the 74th Anniversary of the Columban Mission in Negros Island. We honored the enduring legacy of the Columban missionaries in the island and commemorated our shared history that reinforces our commitment to the values and mission that Saint Columban exemplified throughout his life. The Feast Day of Saint Columban was held at the San Columbano Retreat Centre, located in Sitio Batang, Brgy. Talaban, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, 6108, Philippines.
Saint Columban is recognized as the Patron Saint of Bikers and Motorcyclists, a designation that aligns with the Society's advocacy for environmental awareness.
(Here’s a cherished photo of my brother and his family, capturing a special moment by the statue of Saint Columban)
The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Brian Gore, the last remaining Columban Missionary on the island.
(Emblazoned on his stole are the words: "If you wish to know God, embrace His creation.")
November 28 - Celebrating Elaine's Birthday
Elaine decided to make her birthday more meaningful by embarking on a pilgrimage.
The first stop on this special journey was the San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish in Isabela, Negros Occidental.
The photo was taken across the road to capture the beautiful scene, symbolizing the moment when Jesus entrusted Mary to his beloved disciple.
(I was surprised to see this statue of a saint holding saucer with a bird on it. To think, this is the main patron of my workplace. There are so many things to know about the faith.)
Our next stop was St. Vincent Ferrer Shrine in La Castellana
(Elaine with Fr. Boyet)
In the Catholic Church, there are three vocations:
- Priesthood or Religious Life
- Married Life
- Single Blessedness
In the case of Fr. Boyet, he is already a nurse when he felt the calling. Let us pray for more priests because "The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few."
Saint Joseph Catholic Church
(My brother with his father-in-law)
On the right side of the Church, you will see the gallery of saints
According to stories, St. Vincent was preaching when someone was in need of urgent help. He then developed wings to hastily attend that person.
There are times that stories about saints seem to be "too good to be true" but if we just have to reflect on our very lives, there were moments that they just happen which our logical minds cannot decipher.
The hospitality of the workers. They uncovered the statue just for us to pose
(Elaine posing with Saint Joseph)
Canlaon Balete Tree
One destination you definitely don't want to miss when visiting Canlaon is the Canlaon Balete Tree.
The balete tree inside the OISCA Farm in Lumapao, Canlaon, Negros Oriental, is estimated by botanists from Silliman University to be around 1,328 years old. It would take at least 42 men to encircle its trunk. At the heart of this wide tree trunk is a cavity where lizards, bats and many insects have made it their home. With fireflies lighting it at night like a year-round Christmas tree, it is one of the city's main tourist attractions. Source
(Photo by: Jeffrey Rilles https://www.flickr.com/photos/travelingmorion/27017619517)
Unfortunately, the site was closed during our visit, possibly due to volcanic unrest or ongoing renovations. We were unsure of the exact reason and didn’t inquire further because we felt disheartened. We just took a picture outside and off we continued with our journey.
We purchased vegetables along the way, as they are significantly cheaper in Canlaon.
San Carlos City
(Eating our lunch at Jollibee, San Carlos City)
After enjoying our lunch, we resumed our pilgrimage.
( St. Charles Borromeo, the patron saint of San Carlos)
In front of the Cathedral, you will find a striking sculpture of the Birhen sang Barangay, elegantly adorned in a patadyong, a traditional Filipino garment.
(The birthday celebrant poses in front of the Church)
This was the last Church we visited and my first time to go there. St. Charles Borromeo, their patron is also considered as the patron of catechists. By baptism, we are all called to share the message of salvation.
Disclaimer: All photos are mine, except for the one of the Balete Tree in Canlaon City. The images were taken from my FB Account