"Go up the Veneration Room" Manaoag Local Custom Tip by cyndymc

Devotees patiently line up to go to the Veneration Room which is at the 2nd floor behind the altar where Our Lady of Manaoag is enthroned. The line ends at the back of Our Lady where through a small opening, devotees are allowed to touch the gown of Mama Mary. This Filipino tradition is common in Shrines with miraculous religious icons, and is done by devotees because they believe that just the mere touch can already relieve one's weary soul or sick body.

Church volunteers guard the Veneration Room to prevent devotees from overstaying behind Mama Mary (longer prayers are supposed to be said at the pews in the room), thus prolonging the line. Their presence also deter attempts of fanatics to tear parts of the Lady's gown as religious relic or talisman.