If you are a first-timer, one of the things that you should know first in this castle-like monastery of Lindogon, Sibonga, Cebu is their color-coded prayer candles. Although there are ordinary candles, the themed ones are available for your specific intentions.
The color coding is not clear whether based on religious teaching for symbolic reasons or just a local custom. In the Catholic church during advent and lent a violet candle is used to indicate the time of prayer, penance, and sacrifice.
What are the meanings behind the colors of the candles
From small prayers to special requests, visitors light their candles wishing that their petitions will be heard and granted with the intercession of Birhen sa Simala. But the colored candles served a special purpose depending on the specific prayer of the pilgrims. A colored candle will aid the precant to focus on his/her special petitions.
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| image src: Birhen sa Simala Devotees |
The available colors are:
- Gold for Healing - sickness, good health, psychological and spiritual wounds
- Green for Prosperity/Success - school activities, financial and business, looking for jobs
- Blue for Perseverance – mission, assignments, work
- Violet for Achievement – plans in life, travel
- Red for Love – family, relationships
- Yellow for Peace – praying for your enemies, harmony in the family
- White for Purity - enlightenment
- Orange for Reconciliation – enemies, quarrel among the family
- Pink for Thanksgiving - blessings
- Black for Souls – praying for deceased loved ones, for souls in purgatory
- Brown for Vocation – marriage, single blessedness, priesthood, consecrated life
- Gray for Deliverance – possessed by evil spirits, vices
- Cream for Conversion/Faith – ungodly people, heresy
What is the best time to visit
One must go there knowing what are the best days and time so you can pray solemnly without distractions. The time, place and the day affect the solemnity of prayers. The opening hours start at 8:00 in the morning and ends at 8:00 in the evening. It is advised to visit early because the crowd will start to fill at 10:00 in the morning. And avoid going there during Fridays and weekends because these days are too crowded.
Simala Opening hours :
8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Best days to visit:
Best days to visit:
- Monday
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
| Sun | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:00 PM-01:00 PM | 12:00 PM-01:00 PM | 12:00 PM-01:00 PM | 12:00 PM-01:00 PM | 12:00 PM-01:00 PM | 12:00 PM-01:00 PM | 12:00 PM-01:00 PM |
| 03:00 PM-04:00 PM | 03:00 PM-04:00 PM |
What not to wear
Simala Shrine is very particular with the dress code as this is a religious place so expect proper clothing. Men should wear long pants and a decent shirt, and are not allowed to wear caps inside the church. For women – you are not allowed to wear revealing clothes like tube blouses, transparent and fitting pants, miniskirts, spaghetti dresses, and shorts.
Other prohibitions
- Cam with flash when taking pictures inside the church
- Loud voice
- Smoking
- Alcoholic drinks
- Eating food inside the monastery
How to get there
By bus
If you’re on a low budget and want to save money, you’ll need to commute in public transportations. Go to the Cebu Provincial South Bus Terminal and ride a bus that is bound for Oslob. The ride will take you about 2 hours and half and the fare is around 250. Tell the driver or the one that collects money and tickets to drop you off at Sibonga at the corner going to Simala. And there you have to ride the famous local transportation habal-habal that would take you 5 to 10 minutes to reach the miraculous Simala–Lindogon church - The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist or commonly called the Simala Shrine.
By van
We can accommodate 13 - 14 persons. Just call us directly with this number 0921 509 7773.
Wrap up
Lastly, do not forget to bring stuffs that can protect you from the heat of the sun like sunscreen and sunblock lotion, caps, hats, sunglasses, umbrella, and water for heat stroke prevention. Do not also forget to bring foods if you get hungry while on the road. Remember that Simala is a holy place and treat it with respect.
Also read: Important Things To Remember Before Setting Out On A Tour
image sources:
3 Comments
Love this place....
ReplyDeleteThank you for this information ❤️
ReplyDeleteNestled amidst the lush hills of Sibonga, this breathtaking sanctuary is more than just a religious site; it's a destination where miracles are said to happen. The intricately designed architecture, adorned with colorful mosaic tiles and grandiose staircases, exudes a sense of divine beauty and tranquility. Every corner of Simala Church whispers ancient tales of answered prayers and unwavering faith. Visiting this sacred place may not only uplift your spirits but also gift you with a sense of wonder and awe that transcends the ordinary. Join the countless pilgrims who have been touched by the magic of Simala Church, and let yourself be captivated by the mystique and charm of this spiritual haven. #FaithMeetsFairytale.
ReplyDelete