DALAW PATRONA:
Pagdalaw ni Apo Ana sa mga Dambana
June 15, 2024

Devotees escort the Vicarial Image of Saint Anne to San Agustin Church, under the watchful presence of Our Lady of Consolation and Cincture, as part of the "Dalaw Patrona: Ang Pagdalaw ni Santa Ana sa mga Dambana" pilgrimage.
In a heartfelt and spiritually enriching event, the Vicarial Image of Saint Anne has been making a significant pilgrimage across various shrines within the Archdiocese of Manila. This sacred journey, known as "Dalaw Patrona: Ang Pagdalaw ni Santa Ana sa mga Dambana," commenced on June 8 with a poignant visit to the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño de Tondo.
The visit to Santo Niño de Tondo was marked by a warm and joyous welcome from the children of Tondo, who paid homage to Saint Anne, the grandmother of Jesus. This visit was not merely a ceremonial gesture but a profound symbol of Saint Anne's vital role in the narrative of human salvation. The vicarial image was hosted at the shrine for three days, allowing the faithful ample time for veneration and reflection.
Following its stay in Tondo, the image was transferred to the historic San Agustin Church, also known as the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation and Cincture in Intramuros, Manila. San Agustin Church holds a significant place in the hearts of many as the home of the Augustinian Order, which has overseen the National Shrine of Saint Anne for over three centuries since its establishment in 1581.
The pilgrimage will continue as the image moves to the Manila Cathedral, revered as the mother of all churches in the Philippines.
The Manila Cathedral is not only a historical landmark but also the original diocese to which the Shrine of Saint Anne belongs, making this visit particularly meaningful.
After the solemn veneration at the Manila Cathedral, a grand motorcade will transport the vicarial image to the oldest Church of Saint Anne in the Philippines, the Sta. Ana Church in Manila. This leg of the journey is expected to be met with widespread devotion and celebration from the local community.
The final phase of this spiritual odyssey will see the vicarial image travel back to the Malolos Cathedral for a brief visit before making its way to the town of Hagonoy. In Hagonoy, a town-wide motorcade will honor Saint Anne, leading up to the opening salvo of the Novena in honor of her solemnity.
This series of visits, deeply rooted in faith and tradition, not only highlights the enduring reverence for Saint Anne but also strengthens the spiritual bonds within the Catholic community in Manila and beyond.
The Dalaw Patrona has provided a unique opportunity for the faithful to connect with their heritage and deepen their devotion to the grandmother of Jesus, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Fr. Viel Bautista of The Manila Cathedral incensing the images of St. Anne and the Blessed Virgin Mary on its pilgrimage to the mother church / photo courtesy: The Manila Cathedral/fb