It was in 2007 when I first had the chance to visit this beautiful church. After 5 years, nothing has really changed. This is the Monastery of the Transfiguration located in Brgy. San Jose, Malaybalay, Bukidnon. I love this place, especially when you want to have some time away from the chaotic city life.The peaceful ambiance will definitely help clear your mind of stressful thoughts.
This is the way to the old monastery. I wasn't able to take a photo of the facade but masses are still held there.
This is how the inside of the old monastery looks like...
I was amazed at this chandelier :)
The Sto. Nino
This is the new monastery. I love the architecture!
A friend of mine from Bukidnon says this is starting to become popular among couples who want to get married. However, if you choose to marry here, be prepared with the budget as you need to fly your guests to Cagayan de Oro (the nearest airport), transport all of them to Bukidnon and have them billeted there as well. Should you want a very intimate wedding, this is a perfect choice!
The altar and the aisle...
These tents are here every second Sunday of the month when they hold the Breakfast with the Monks. According to the monastery's web site, it started only with 50 people. Now, the monks feed as many as 300 and many travel all the way from Davao (5 hours away), Iligan City (3 hours away) and Cagayan de Oro City (2 hours away) just to have that experience. In the past, the monks were not allowed to talk to the guests but now they already mingle with them over breakfast.
I will never get tired going back here. I should consider making this a place of refuge...that is, if I have the time and money to travel :)
Before you leave, don't forget to bring home the very famous Monks' Premium Blend Coffee and Roasted Peanuts. They are available at the store on the way back to Malaybalay proper.
Ciao!
