A very sacred place somewhere in the Southern Part of Cebu – the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist or is commonly known as the “Birhen sa Simala” has been renowned for the miracles said to be made by the Blessed Virgin Mary. Her divine grace and power for several different occurrences were attested by many living proofs.

The monastery may be just one of the many churches in the Philippines preaching the Roman Catholic religion, but the place is very serene that it almost feels like heaven on earth.

“Birhen sa Simala” is about 2 hours travel from the heart of the Queen City of the South. You may take a bus at the South Bus Terminal bounded to Sibongan for P50.00. After a bus ride, you may take a “habal-habal” or motorcycle for hire bounded to the monastery for P20.00. It is open to public daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

If you are planning to visit the monastery, you are advised to observe proper dress code. Only formal attires are allowed inside the premises. Those who are wearing tube blouse, spaghetti strap shirts, fitted pants, mini-skirts, shorts and other informal attire would not be allowed to get inside. Also, visitors are reminded to watch their words and actions inside the monastery since it is a very solemn place and a lot of miracles have already took place here.

As you step into the pathway leading to the main church, a view of the big crown structure will welcome you. The statue serves as a memorial of the triumphant and powerful intervention of the Blessed Virgin Mary through the Penitential Rosary Walk against the killer epidemic that hit the place back in 1998. Said epidemic reportedly claimed several lives of the children and infant, particularly the poor. Thus, the monastery was constructed to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary on the 8th anniversary of the advent of the monks in Lindogon and was subsequently blessed on February 27, 2004.

Inside the monastery, you will be amazed by the number of crutches, walkers, wheel chairs, badges, written prayers and thank you notes of the people who have experienced the divine grace of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Surprisingly, devotees of the “Birhen sa Simala” from all over the world have been rapidly increasing, having to do with the lots of improvements introduced into the church brought by the prospering donations.

If you wish to get close with the actual “Birhen sa Simala”, get ready for the very long line ahead. You’ll be surprised how the people have endured staying under the heat of sun outside while staying in line to have a glimpse and offer a short prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary located at the back of the church.

Also, be noted that once the mass starts, nobody can get inside the “Birhen sa Simala”. News has it that the said relic is the actual statue that displayed so many miracles including the shedding of blood tears and change in facial expressions. Also, many have claimed that thousands of prayers have been answered by the Blessed Virgin Mary.

For your donations, the monks welcome any kind of donations as long as it came from the bottom of your heart. However, you must give your donations directly into the monks as there have been reports of swindlers in the place.

Outside the church awaits the souvenir shops selling rosaries, statues, books and prayer guides.

Furthermore, other than the big statue of the Miraculous Virgin Mary, you can also see the replica of the Well of Nazareth where Mama Mary hauled water for Jesus and Joseph. This is not a wishing well, but a lot of people believe that if you make a wish and throw a coin to the well, your wish will be granted.

Be happy and blessed. Feel the solemn presence of the Blessed Virgin Mary as you sincerely say your prayer at the “Birhen sa Simala”.

For schedule of the holy mass, kindly see details below:

Sunday - 12:00 noon & 3:00 PM

Monday to Friday - 12:00 noon

Saturday - 10:30 AM

Every 13th of the month - 10:30 AM & 3:30 PM