We made a quick stop at Mary’s House, on a two-hectare area in Alfonso, Cavite (near the Batangas border), which was recently inaugurated. The new shrine project, built by Fr. Dennis Paez, SDB supported by his friends and benefactors, is a work in progress with nothing else but the shine and the restrooms standing. Yet almost every day, a growing number of pilgrims take time to visit and pray. Most come to know of it by word of mouth.
What is this shrine about?
- Replica: pilgrims will find an exact replica of Mary’s House inspired by that of Ephesus in Turkey. One tradition has it that during the Jerusalem persecution, Apostle John relocated Mary in Ephesus to keep her safe. Being entrusted by Jesus to care for his mother, St. John built her a modest stone house. It is believed that among her frequent visitors was St. Luke who interviewed her about the infancy stories of Jesus. Today Mary’s house has become a popular pilgrim site for Christians and Muslims. This site has also been visited by Pope Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Now, this local shrine then, gives the pilgrim a chance to feel and inhale the strong aura at Mary’s house where it safeguards centuries-old icons & first class relics of saints known for their Marian devotion.
- Rest House: more importantly, this site is intended to be a sanctuary for the weary and tired; a refuge for troubled, confused and hurting people especially youth. Anyone can come and stay. This safe place is inspired by the nature of the birds, when one is wounded & falls to the ground, two birds automatically come to accompany it until it gets well or it dies. This place will serve as a rest house for healing, prayer and reflection.
- Real Healer is Mary: the power of this shrine comes from the very presence of Mama Mary. She is the real healer. Anyone who comes has been has been drawn by her. Just as the early Christians found solace by visiting the Ephesus House, this home will be a space where anyone can find hope, comfort and guidance from the Blessed Virgin Mary.
My takeaway: Praying at the main altar inside the Ephesus House, I noticed that Mary’s statue had no hands. She wa urging me: Go and be my hands – to help and to heal. Miracles happen from the touch of love.