Eukaristiya Garden: A Place for Contemplation

Cebu is a place of deeply pious people. I would say, it is not a superficial show of piety, but they truly live their faith and learnings on morality. Because of their kindness and profound religiosity, it is no wonder that they produced the second Filipino saint in St. Pedro Calungsod and they also have a next in line in the extremely generous Venerable Archbishop Teofilo B. Camomot. 

For that, it is just quite fitting for Cebu to host the 51st International Eucharistic Congress. To commemorate this event, they constructed the Eukaristiya Garden of Thanksgiving inside the Archbishop's Palace in Jakosalem St., Cebu City. It is located at the back of the Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Pedro Calungsod.   

Marker of the Eukaristiya Garden inside the Archbishop's Palace in Cebu.

A marker which identified the development of the place as part of the 51st International Eucharistic Congress. 

The place is solemn and good for contemplation. The centerpiece is this fountain which is surrounded by the Stations of the Cross. The sound of the fountain when operating is soothing to a weary soul. Perhaps the fountain signifies the overflowing grace one can obtain from the eucharist.

A fountain inside the garden.

You can also make a wish and toll these bells. You can whisper to God your heart's inmost desires. 

The carillon in the garden. 

This tower has an elevator which will bring you to the viewing deck where you can have a fascinating view of the grounds of Casino Español and nearby places in Cebu City. 

The tower inside the garden, the viewing deck of which offers a spectacular view of Cebu City. 

You can also pray at the image of St. John Paul II, who on his visit to Cebu City stayed at the Archbishop's Palace. You can also see there an inscription of Psalm 51 which speaks of God's mercy, quite apt for the celebration of the "Year of Mercy." 

A statue of St. John Paul II

An inscription of Psalm 51 and the logo of "Year of Mercy."

It is always great to visit this place. Whenever I'm in Cebu, I would always have "courtesy call" to St. Pedro Calungsod in his shrine and afterwards visit this garden. Experience too, the grace and mercy of God on this very spot.