After almost 4 years since the rise of COVID-19, the UST - College of Nursing has resumed the tradition of becoming travelers. On February 28, 2024, the Level III students of the College of Nursing completed their voyage as pilgrims to the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag. The location was a familiar one, bringing memories of one of the previous pilgrimages in A.Y. 2018.
The students’ day began at 5:45 at the university premises, gathering and uncovering each of their designated buses. Not long after, the vehicles had set forth on their long journey, accompanied by the College of Commerce.
As pilgrims, their travels were guided by faith by practicing the rosary led by the students themselves. Their faith had eventually brought them all together in Pangasinan to repent and commune with God.
The students arrived before noon and had plenty of time to walk around the vicinity. Some petitioned by offering candles and prayers, others practiced their faith by visiting the shrine dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Eventually, all of the students from the College of Nursing and College of Commerce had all gathered for the holy mass, assisted by our own regent, Rev. Fr. Julius Paul C., O.P., J.C.D. And after noon, students still had ample time to explore the site with the opportunity to partake in the blessing of religious articles.
The trip on the way back offered plenty of sentimental moments for both students and faculty members. The road had been given serenades that were fun and connecting. And without notice, the day had come to an end.
Being pilgrims means to build upon and strengthen their spiritual bonds, and deepen their faith. This does not only apply to students, but the journey with faculty and staff makes it more worth while. Enjoying activities with others, including prayers and the holy mass helps them deepen their connection with God and help them become more closely aligned with the Catholic faith by traveling to revered locations.
As nursing students, our schedule is often busy with academics and clinical work. However, that nor the blistering heat did not stop the students from attaining a solace of faith. It is a beautiful sight to see the tradition of becoming pilgrims being once again practiced.
Photos by Mark Jonel Abad
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