For the first time, Ayala Alabang village in Muntinlupa City will open its gates starting at 7:30 a.m. today to pilgrims marking the feast day of its parish patron saint, St. James the Greater.
Parishioners and organizers of the St. James Alabang (SJA) Pilgrim Walk led by businessman Benjie R. Bernardo consider this a mini version of the centuries-old tradition where pilgrims walk almost 800 kilometers to Santiago de Compostela in Spain to pay homage to the saint who is said to be buried there.
Pilgrims are advised to register at the main gate on Madrigal Avenue and wear a scallop shell necklace—the shell being the saint’s symbol—for identification.
They are also advised to keep to the sidewalks, keep the paths clean, observe silence and make it truly an occasion for prayer and reflection.
Parish priest Msgr. Albert A. Venus said the serene surroundings of Ayala Alabang would be ideal for the 10-km pilgrim walk. A Pilgrim Mass will be celebrated at the parish church at 4:30 p.m.