Meeting the Big Bro

Someday, I hope to make a Marian pilgrimage in Europe to visit the Holy places for complete healing and thanksgiving. While I save up for my future plans,  I can take advantage of visiting the Holy places around town, such as the Divine Mercy shrine in El Salvador, Misamis Oriental. Although it is technically outside Cagayan de Oro, it is just a few minutes away from the city proper. It is where we get to meet the (50 ft) gigantic statue of Jesus Christ, or "Bro" as He is fondly called by viewers of the inspirational hit Filipino TV Series, "May Bukas Pa."

The location is uphill but the cemented road makes it accessible to all types of vehicles. If commuting, they have motorcycles or "habal-habal" along the highway that will bring you to the site. The construction of the holy place came to life after the the local intercessory prayer group of the Divine Mercy Foundation received a message from the Lord: to build His church of Mercy with the vision of the Lord, standing on top of a hill overlooking the ocean. It was officially turned over to the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro on the Blessed Virgin's birthday last year, September 8, 2008.

The privately-funded project is a sight to behold, so don't forget to bring your digital cameras! At the center is the 50 ft statue of Christ, which is said to be the tallest Divine Mercy  statue in the world-  a work of sculptor and UP Fine Arts graduate, Nick Reyes. Within the heart of Christ is a chamber of adoration where devotees can climb up to, much higher than the stairs at the MRT stations. Those with health issues can stay on the ground, where regular masses are held.  There is an area where you can get healing water for free, just bring your own containers.

Since it is a sacred pilgrimage site, visitors are required to observe proper decorum. Dress code dictates that no sleeveless or shorts are allowed. Men wearing shorts will be handed out a skirt when entering the premises. Women are allowed to wear long pants but skirts will also be lent when attending the mass or when going up the chamber of adoration.

If visiting Cagayan de Oro, be sure to include a date with the Big Guy.  The long stretch of walking will be all worth it.