Let's face it. Like gender and politics, talking about religion has always been controversial - despite possessing the freedom of speech. Isn't it? As sensitive as these topics are, we are usually encouraged to refrain from participating in these types of provocative discussions, preventing unnecessary squabbles, misunderstandings, and conflicts with others.

On the other hand, there are certain occasions when various places of worship such as churches, mosques, and temples, are featured on public platforms for the sake of different reasons aside from proving a religious point - a fragile sparkplug that has the potential to ignite endless debates.

So instead of arguiing about what’s the world's most powerful and influential religion, let's divert our attention to more wholesome topics that transform the way we perceive holy sites. Fair enough?

Hence, for today's featured landmark, I'm going to share my personal observations about Saint Benedict’s Monastery, a renowned shrine in the Philippine island of Cebu - this time from a cultural, experiential, and visual perspective.

If you're not yet aware, a vast majority of Filipinos are Roman Catholics, a religious legacy bestowed upon them by Spain during their colonial history centuries ago.

Cebu in particular, being the Philippine's oldest city and the original birthplace of Christianity in Asia, is blessed with several sacred sites that embody this collective belief.

If you're searching for a serene environment to contemplate on life, pray, or simply be at peace, the Saint Benedict's Monastery in the highlands of Carmen, a northern municipality of Cebu, is a beautiful destination you could consider.

During one of my adventurous excursions up north, I had the great opportunity to visit this sacred oasis as a side-trip from a farmland’s ocular inspection. And because this is geographically situated on a mountaintop, the prevailing atmosphere was certainly soothing despite the sunny weather. My initial impressions of the landmark embraced a calming sensation, the perfect condition for these types of travels.

Although the Saint Benedict's Monastery is purely intended for Roman Catholics, this elevated shrine welcomes all individuals regardless of faith.

Upon arriving at the peak via a grand staircase, I was greeted by the blessed statue of the Santo Niño, a symbolic representation of the Child Jesus and respectfully considered to be the Patron Saint of Cebu. Next to it was a small but equally adorable chapel with a contemporary design.

Yet, what really impressed me about this serene place was its breathtaking location. Surrounded by fresh air plus the lush bounties of nature, visitors and pilgrims can truly be immersed in spiritual rejuvenation with this conducive environment. There were also plenty of picturesque sceneries that one couldn't stop capturing memorable moments.

Most importantly, the Saint Benedict’s Monastery is particularly popular and filled with devotees during the observance of the Holy Week, an annual commemoration of the Passion of Jesus Christ during the season of Lent.

This religious tradition is physically evident within the shrine and can be experienced through the magnificent depiction of the Stations of the Cross, life-size concrete sculptures painted in white that narrated Christ’s false judgement, suffering, death, and eventual resurrection.

I was moved by these brightly colored statues as they were certainly realistic, conveying a sense of empathy and inviting me to indulge in further reflections.

The first station commenced at the bottom of the hill while the rest of the stations were completed as I ascended, reciting prayers at each elevated landmark.

This upward walk was also a sincere sacrifice offered as an act of penance for our wrongdoings.

The final station situated at the topmost elevation of the hill was the depiction of Christ’s Resurrection, symbolized by an enormous statue with raised and open arms. It was also the perfect spot to catch my breath after that steep upward climb. While I sat down to relax at one of the benches, I witnessed the spectacular vista of the surrounding municipalities and the open ocean as far as my eyes could see. It was indeed a blessing that the weather was cooperative and contributed to my wonderful experience.

When the sun was about to set, I descended back to the chapel and rosary center to offer my last respects and buy some souvenirs.

Although I could find solace and perform my religious duties in churches, special places like the Saint Benedict’s Monastery was a different spiritual experience, fulfilling a human need that requires constant nourishment. I was absolutely glad this unintended side-trip was more worthy than I initially thought - I discovered real peace.

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