Rare Moment Captured

Mount Banahaw as seen in front of the Sunstar Mall

An active volcano sitting at the boundaries of the provinces of Quezon and Laguna, Mount Banahaw is one spectacular view I always admire and never get tired to look at.

They say that the beautiful Mount Banahaw is always covered with clouds.  You rarely see the volcano as a whole, it's mouth or the top of the volcano is not always available for us to see.  Sometimes, it's partly covered with clouds, but hiding most of the time.  At least, that's what I heard from the townspeople ever since I was young; and what I have observed all these years.

That's why I couldn't resist to catch this moment, even though my hands were full of work stuff and some groceries.

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The Capital of Laguna

Unkown to many, the capital of the province of Laguna is our town, Sta. Cruz, Laguna.  In our town, you can find the Provincial Capitol of Laguna at P. Guevara Avenue.

The entrance to the Provinical Capitol

For some, this is a regular thing.  But I'd like to share this photo to those people who have not been here to see the changes.  I wanted to capture it while it is still under construction.  Then, I'll take a look and shoot again when it's done.

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Mahal na Birhen Ina ng Awa (Our Lady of Sorrows)

Tomorrow, September 15, will be the Feast of Our Lady of Ina ng Awa.

If you would like to celebrate mass, there will be two services. One will be at 9:00 am and the other one will be at 4:00 pm, followed by the procession.

Our Lady of Ina ng Awa is located at Barangay Poblacion, Sta. Cruz, Laguna. If you are along P. Guevara Avenue, the entrance to the chapel would be at the left side of the road. The nearest landmark would be the Avon Building (which used to be the Laguna Cinema). A few yards after that will be the Cervo's Mechanic where you will find the alley to the chapel.

If you are at Regidor Street, it will be on the left side, too. The landmark would be the Laguna Auto Supply. Right across that store, you will find the entrance to the alley that leads to the chapel.

The Ina ng Awa is thought to be a miraculous saint helping a lot of people in town. A lot of people could testify that all their wishes were granted by praying the novena to the most holy mother.

The oil that you can find inside the chapel is thought to heal the sick. The oil contains the dried sampaguita (Jasmine) flowers that were offered to the saint and is thought to be the one doing the wonders. Apart from the free oil dip that you can find at the entrance of the candle room, you can also buy small bottles of oil from the chapel's store.

Candles are lit to help you send your prayers to the most holy mother and you can find candles available inside the chapel.

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