Lately, I have been facing some tough times. I had to leave two jobs within a year due to circumstances beyond my control. However, I realized that I have full control of what I feel, act, and do. So, I have resolved to carry on with blogging, job hunting, and my weekly routine, which includes visiting a place of worship each week.
I have already visited St. Clare’s monastery last Thursday, but I have decided to make this week a little extra by swinging by the National Shrine of St. Jude in Mendiola, Manila. It is his feast day today, and I could not let this week go by without thanking him for his constant intercession. I also have many favors to pray for, so it was an easy decision to make.
To go there, I simply ride the MRT to Cubao then transfer to the LRT going to Legarda. From there, it is a leisurely walk to St. Jude.
I offer candles, which cost Php2.00 each right beside the church. Prayer cards such as those for exams and for job seekers are sold by street vendors surrounding the church. I also visit the other statues there, such as Padre Pio. It is a one-stop shrine for all your desperate needs.
St. Jude is after all the patron of hopeless cases, and I have experienced his unwavering support. In 2016, he granted me a huge favor around the time of his feast day. And now, I have returned, a year later and stronger from all the challenges I have endured.
It is also admirable to witness faith in person. I am inspired to pray when there are multitudes of faithful churchgoers around me. I feel that having a little faith is not a solo endeavour after all. It is also prayer in action, as the trip to St. Jude is not easy, considering that public transportation in Metro Manila is not efficient. But it is a trip I have made whenever I can, and it is a blessing to be with St. Jude during his fiesta time.
I pray that A and I will soon find the right jobs for us. I pray that we will always be in excellent health. I pray that our families will always be blessed. And I pray that my blog will continue to inspire me to live a life of wellness through mindfulness, so that I can lead others by example.
What are you praying for? Let me know if you want me to pray for your special intentions when I get to visit a church again. Let us continue praying for each other!
***Comments are welcome at speakoutsam@gmail.com***