Hopeless seek refuge at church in Tanay

Posted at 4:57 pm March 19, 2010

Tags: Churches and Places of Worship

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By Marjorie Gorospe

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TANAY, RIZAL — For Catholic Manileños wanting to reflect and seek divine guidance from Saint Jude, the patron of the hopeless, the Saint Jude Thaddeus Parish in Manila is a quick resort. But for those who wish to embark on a pilgrimage, heading to the parish located in the cool and windy town of Tanay fulfills their devotion.

Tucked away in the mountains, the Saint Jude Thaddeus Parish in Brgy. Sampaloc, Tanay was primarily built for the pilgrims of the patron 11 years ago. Its renovation, initiated by Rev. Father Ric Eguia, was intended to attract more locals and tourists. The climate in the place also gives devotees another reason to stay as it offers cool breeze from early morning until the end of the day.

Parishioners say that inviting people to come to such a young church was not easy. Added to this is the fact that Saint Jude Thaddeus is often mistaken as Jude Iscariot who betrayed Jesus Christ to the Jewish authorities. The Bible also tells so little about the patron and so, as part of their devotion, catechists fervently preach to students and their parents, spreading the good deeds of the saint. St Jude is the brother of St. James who is regarded as Chist’s first cousin.

After years of evangelization, the Parish became the temple for the hopeless where people could repent and communicate better with God. Various renewal experiences and programs for the youth were developed in the parish to help strengthen their devotion to St. Jude.

The Saint Jude Thaddeus Parish celebrates mass every six in the evening during weekdays. On Sundays, masses are held twice, one in the morning at eight o’clock and the other at six o’clock. The feast of Saint Jude is celebrated on October 28. This is probably the best time to visit as residents open their homes to tourists.

Here’s the novena devotees pray to Saint Jude:

Great Saint Jude in heaven’s glory
Patron of all the hopeless souls
In our trials be our refuge
Help us in our present woes.

Ever praying interceding
Desolation endless pleading
Sain of god magnificent
Hear thy clients’ suppliant
Sain of God magnificent
Hear thy client’s supplient

To get to Saint Jude Thaddeus Parish, from EDSA Central Terminal, take a jeep or FX straight to Tanay. From Tanay terminal, ride another jeepney going to Barangay Sampaloc and ask the driver to drop you off at Saint Jude Thaddeus Parish.

For independent motorists, take the Marcos Highway or Cogeo road from Cubao to avoid traffic. It will take you directly to Barangay Sampaloc. Along the way, you will see the scenic view of Sierra Madre perfect for picture-taking.