“Ever wonder why the Chapel of Holy Relics in Talamban is so special?” I ask, gesturing towards the unassuming yet deeply significant structure. This isn’t just any chapel. The Chapel of Holy Relics in Talamban is a sanctuary. It holds a collection of sacred objects.
The Chapel of Holy Relics is located on Tabor Hill. Tabor Hill is a five-hectare property. It belongs to the Order of Discalced Augustinian. The order established it in 1995. Tabor Hill got its name from Mount Tabor in Galilee Israel. That is where Jesus Christ’s transfiguration took place.
But what makes this chapel truly unique? It houses over 4000 relics and religious objects. More than 2000 of these were donated by the Vatican. Imagine garments and artifacts of saints. Think about items straight from biblical narratives. These aren’t mere artifacts. They are tangible links to faith and history.
The story of the Chapel of Holy Relics began with Fr. Denniz Ruiz OAD. He started collecting sacred objects. This was while studying in Rome. He worked at the Office of the Relics in the Vicariate of Rome. His first relics were gifts. They were of St. Augustine and his mother St. Monica.
Construction of the Chapel of Holy Relics and a retreat house were funded in 2000. The Chapel of Holy Relics was finally established in 2012. It quickly became a popular destination. People visit especially during Lent and Holy Week. In 2022 it was part of the Highland Pilgrimage Tour. The Cebu City Tourism Commission organized the tour.
Getting here is part of the adventure. You can take a jeepney from Cebu City to Talamban Gym. Then hop on a motorcycle or walk to Tabor Hill.
The Chapel of Holy Relics is open from 5 AM to 9 PM. Latin Mass is held every Sunday at 1 PM. St. Rita of Cascia’s feast day is May 22.
Masses are held throughout the week. There are services in the morning and evening. The Chapel of Holy Relics offers a variety of mass schedules.
The OAD Tabor Hill itself offers more than just the chapel. There is the Tabor Hill College-OAD a seminary and a retreat house. You will also find the life-sized Stations of the Cross and grottoes. These are dedicated to Our Lady of Consolation and Our Lady of Lourdes. Oratories of St. Rita and Our Lady of Manaoag are also present. Don’t miss the Fatima Garden and Adoration Chapel. A columbary and farm add to the serene atmosphere.
During Holy Week, OAD Tabor Hill becomes a place for Via Crucis. The challenging terrain adds to the experience. Pilgrims walk the path of sacrifice. The 16 stations include the resurrection and descent of the Holy Spirit.
As you leave the Chapel of Holy Relics, consider its profound impact. This chapel is a testament to faith devotion and the enduring power of religious history. It is a place where the past feels present.