Lady of Manaoag Shrine

The Lady of Manaoag is an ivory carving of the Virgin Mary that was brought from Spain in about 1600. The shrine was established in 1926 and has received sacred recognition from the Pope. People travel from all over the Philippines... and from all over the world, to come here and pray for special blessings and miracles. The name of the town, Manaoag, means "she calls".  We share some of our photos of the shrine below.

 The main shrine chapel is immediately behind Sister Lindsay, offices and living quarters are in the newer extension to the left.

 

 This is what it looks like at night this Christmas season.

The chapel was undergoing some renovation when we were there, but behind the scaffolding in the center is the "Lady of Manaoag".  

The building is laid out in typical fashion in the shape of a cross with the main seating area opposite the shrine and adjacent seating on either side of the elevated shrine.

A view of the entry and main seating area facing the shrine.

An adjacent seating area and steps up to the elevated shrine level.

Out the back door is a lovely garden. Very well maintained compared to other areas in the country.

Carving of the Lady in a tree trunk.

My Lady of Manaoag.

A fountain featuring another image of the Lady is featured in a building behind the shrine chapel. Areas for lighting candles and prayer are on the outside walls.

 

This is a picture of the Lady of Manaoag that is in the museum on the grounds.

Mom was very impressed with the beautiful work on a dress once placed on the Lady.

Outside of the grounds on the street there is a Christmas tree made of rice stalks. It is lighted at night for all passersby to see.

It is 8:00 and the souvenir shops are closing and the final mass of the day is coming to an end, so it is time to say good night to the Lady of Manaoag Shrine.