Perpetual Novena in honor of Nuestra Señora de La Salud (Our Lady of Health) - [Every Thursday]
In Quezon City, there exists a valuable relic from Old Manila's illustrious past - the dark image of the Blessed Virgin known as "Nuestra Señora de la Salud" (Our Lady of Health). This sacred artifact was brought to the Philippines in 1634 by Recollect missionaries. The image was highly revered and associated with numerous miracles in the olden days, attracting the attention of government officials and the faithful. Despite the challenges posed by World War 2 and subsequent decades of waning devotion, recent efforts have sought to revive the historical significance of this miraculous figure, often referred to as the "Health of the Sick."
The image depicts the Madonna and Child, with the Virgin's head crafted from wood and the Child Jesus from darkened ivory. Adorned with a gold and silver crown and robe encrusted with precious stones, the image stands at approximately 63.5 cm in height, including the base and crown, while the Child Jesus is about 13 cm tall.
The Order of the Augustinian Recollects brought the image to the Philippines in 1634 and initially enshrined it in various churches due to circumstances such as uprisings and invasions. Regardless of these transfers, the Virgin of Health's popularity remained steadfast, drawing pilgrims to her presence. The image gained immense devotion and became renowned for its miracles, particularly during the Chinese uprising of the Seventeenth Century.
Over the centuries, the Virgin of Health became a patron for various needs, including safe childbirth and healing from illness. The faithful offered "ex votos," tokens of gratitude, ranging from family heirlooms to jewels. The image's feast day underwent several changes before settling on the Saturday nearest to the Solemnity of St. Joseph.
The destruction caused by World War 2 led to the disappearance of many precious images in Manila's churches, but the image of Nuestra Señora de la Salud survived. It was kept in various locations before being transferred to its new Monastery in Quezon City and eventually displayed at a museum. Efforts to revive devotion to the Virgin gained momentum in the 2000s, with the image re-emerging for public veneration. As of now, the Augustinian Recollect Order is actively working to restore the devotion to the Virgin of Health, and she has once again become a source of reported miracles and healing.
In a time plagued by physical and spiritual challenges, the revival of devotion to Nuestra Señora de la Salud is seen as timely and providential. She offers solace, healing, and a motherly presence to those who seek her intercession, much like she did in centuries past. The article concludes with a prayer for her, expressing gratitude, seeking blessings, and asking for her continued care and protection.
CREDITS:
Order of Augustinian Recollects - Province of St. Ezekiel Moreno
Songs:
SALVE REGINA with Lyrics | Traditional Latin ( • SALVE REGINA with Lyri... )
Awit sa Ina ng Kalusugan (Nuestra Señora de La Salud) ni Fray Leo Alaras, OAR
Voice-overs:
Ems de Vela
Om Shan Sebastian
Editor:
Vincent Nabablit
Producer:
Digital Bros. PH -
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