04/13/2017 07:33:06 PM
From the mountains of Tanay lies a religious compound that is a surely-visited by many by the Holy Week.
Regina Rosarii Institute for Contemplation in Asia – known as Regina RICA – isn't just a typical religious church temple. It is a sanctuary where the ambiance offers peace and serenity at the comforts of natural habitat.
The 13.5 hectare Regina Rica compound boasts the beauty of the environment from the uphills with a shrine of the Our Lady of Regina situated atop of one. That's aside from their mini-chapel, columbary, restaurant, and cottages, and the sunflower-trail en route to the 71-foot image made by artist-sculptor Jose Barcena, Jr.
It was a Good Friday of 2016 when yours truly strolled by one of the Rizal's largest towns. Certainly a 120-minute ride from the Metro was worth it, especially if you get past downtown Antipolo wherein the fast-yet-smooth ride all the way up is surely an enjoyable experience (just be careful on driving, though).
It was a long queue on its entrance paths, but everything was just plain fine one as we barely expect the venue to be packed that time.
And even with the strict implementation of their rules, the Dominican sisters and staff (as a whole) has run them with a heart. It's better to refrain from wearing sando, above-the-knee shorts, and spaghetti strap clothing, but fret not in case you read this too late as they offer skirt, jacket rentals, or malong. At least, we were informed by the time we enter their briefing area.
Despite being on a blockbuster line, it is impossible not to appreciate the beauty of the sunflower trail and the looks around it, especially on an afternoon. On one side, you can spot the rays of the sun-about-to-set; while on the other, the habitat lying on the heels of Sierra Madre. Soit's no surprise why some people drop by Regina Rica once in a while – aside from their prayers, it was a stress-busting aura which attracted a lot of them the most. Heck, I even see horses somewhere.
It may be not that “quiet” compared to their usual days, but it's alright considering the timing. Still it gave me a peace of mind I badly need while taking time to reflect and offer a prayer.
And frankly, the ride to the Eastern side may have been a stressful one considering the construction of the LRT traffic, but that should not discouraging you from pursuing that interest. In fact, taking the straight route of Marcos Highway will probably put you not just on a teaser to the beauty of our country's environment, but to the sacred destination you are about to hit as well.
Author: slickmaster | © 2017 september twenty-eight productions
Hmmm bago ito sa akin a pero malamang na mapadpad ako dyan ay pupuntahan ko rin ito. akala ko noong una yung simbahan lang sa tanay, rizal. kasi napuntahan ko na yon .
ReplyDeleteHappy Easter Slickmaster!