Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon is a significant religious site that draws visitors seeking spiritual connection and solace. This sanctuary draws visitors from all corners of the country and beyond. Seeking spiritual solace its awe-inspiring beauty. Kamay ni Hesus, which translates to “Hand of Jesus” in English, is a sprawling religious complex that features a gigantic 50-foot statue of the Risen Christ. This towering statue, perched atop a hill, serves as the focal point of the shrine and is visible from miles away. The shrine was founded by Rev. Fr. Joseph “Joey” Faller in the early 2000s. He is a Catholic priest famous for his healing ministry. He was inspired to create a haven where people could come to seek spiritual guidance, find solace in their faith, and experience the miraculous power of prayer. Furthermore, It’s a visual symbol that sets the tone for the entire pilgrimage.
The shrine has since gained fame for the numerous accounts of healing and answered prayers that have been attributed to the intercession of Kamay ni Hesus. Pilgrims from all over the Philippines including us all the way from Makati, and even international visitors. Come to pray and lay their petitions before the Risen Christ, hoping for divine intervention in their lives. Furthermore, they hold regular healing masses at the shrine, where pilgrims gather to pray for their own healing or that of their loved ones. It’s a moving experience to witness the power of faith and prayer in action. The shrine provides a serene and sacred space for confession and reconciliation, allowing visitors to seek forgiveness and spiritual renewal. However, it’s important to note that reaching the hilltop where the majestic Risen Christ statue stands requires some physical effort. It involves more than 300 steps which can be really challenging.
Our Experience in Kamay ni Hesus
As we start our 300-step uphill journey, we can already have a glimpse of the imposing sight right from the base of the hill. The gigantic Risen Christ statue, standing tall atop the hill, was visible even before we took our first step. During our climb, we counted the steps one by one, and to our surprise, our tally reached around 312 steps. The journey was undeniably challenging and exhausting, but it turned out to be a cardio workout for all of us. What initially seemed like a spiritual endeavor quickly became a physical one as well. Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are the ones that challenge us both physically and spiritually. Inside the complex, an adoration chapel offers a serene space for lighting candles and offering personal prayers. There were also a lot of souvenir shops and food vendors for refreshments inside and outside Kamay ni Hesus.
Of course, our Quezon Province trip is not complete without trying their staple local delicacies. One of these is the Pinagong. It’s a turtle-shaped pastry that is very similar to what we know, monay and putok. I bought some to take home and to consume with coffee. Some of it we ate for breakfast the next day. I also bought Lucban Longganisa, famous for its rich garlic and savory flavor. It is quite expensive compared to the Longganisa we can find in the Metro. But it tastes way different than the sweet ones we usually buy. Lastly, we tried the Pancit Habhab. It’s a noodle dish traditionally consumed without utensils, but banana leaves as the plate only. However, on our visit, it was served on paper plates and we ate them by slurping the noodles. It was a messy experience but it was fun and delicious!
Tips and Guidelines
- While entry is free, it’s a kind gesture to make a voluntary donation to support the upkeep of the shrine and its activities. Donations help maintain the spiritual and physical aspects of Kamay ni Hesus.
- Be prepared for a parking fee, as there may be charges for parking your vehicle at the shrine’s designated parking areas.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, as Kamay ni Hesus is a place of worship. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, especially if you plan to climb the stairs to the hilltop.
- Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during hot weather.
- Maintain a respectful demeanor while visiting the shrine. Keep noise levels down, especially in areas of prayer and reflection.
- Don’t just focus on the shrine itself; explore the surrounding areas, including the gardens, souvenir shops, food stalls, and the Garden of Eden if you’re traveling with family.
- The Garden of Eden has an animal-themed playground and a replica of Noah’s Ark.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for more places to go and events to experience here in Quezon Province you should also check:
- My Experience in Pahiyas Festival 2022
- Batis Aramin; A Fun-packed Paradise Getaway in Lucban, Quezon
- A day tour trip to experience Villa Escudero
How to get there?
Via Private Vehicle:
- From Manila: Start by heading south on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) towards Lucena. Continue on SLEX until you reach the Calamba Exit.
- Calamba Exit to Lucban: After exiting at Calamba, follow the road signs towards Los Baños, and then continue on to Sta. Cruz, Laguna. From Sta. Cruz, you’ll head towards Pagsanjan. You’ll pass through several towns and cities, including Lumban, Kalayaan, and Pila.
- Lucban: Once you reach Pagsanjan, you’ll find signs directing you towards Lucban. Follow these signs, and you’ll eventually arrive in Lucban.
- Kamay ni Hesus: Kamay ni Hesus is a well-known landmark in Lucban. You can ask locals for directions, or you may even spot signboards guiding you to the shrine. It’s located on the outskirts of the town.
Via Public Transportation:
- From Manila: You can take a bus bound for Lucena or Lucban from various bus terminals in Manila, such as Cubao or Buendia. Make sure to confirm with the bus conductor that the bus will pass through Lucban.
- Lucban Terminal: The bus will drop you off at the Lucban Terminal, which is usually in the town center. From there, you can either take a tricycle or a jeepney to Kamay ni Hesus. Tricycles are readily available and can take you directly to the shrine.
- Alternatively: If you prefer taking a jeepney, you can get one going to “Kamay ni Hesus” or “Brgy. Tinamnan.” The jeepney ride should take you to the vicinity of the shrine.
