The Pilgrim Mother: Pontevedra Visit to Davao

The Archdiocese of Davao recently welcomed the revered Pilgrim Image of the Immaculate Heart of Mary from Pontevedra, Spain, in a momentous spiritual event that brought together thousands of faithful from July 20-22, 2025. This extraordinary visit marked a period of profound grace and renewal for the Catholic community in Davao, as devotees flocked to various parishes to venerate the sacred image and participate in special liturgical celebrations.

Mary’s pilgrimage to the Archdiocese began on Sunday, July 20, with a 7:00 AM Mass at San Miguel Parish in Marahan, followed by a solemn 6:00 PM celebration at the historic San Pedro Cathedral Parish, presided over by His Excellency, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao. The following day, July 21, saw the faithful gather at dawn at Our Lady of Fatima Parish on Fatima Street for a 6:00 AM Mass, while the evening devotion moved to the Sta. Ana Shrine Parish on Sta. Ana Avenue at 5:30 PM. The final official day of the visit, July 22, began with another early morning Mass at Sta. Ana Shrine Parish at 6:00 AM, allowing working devotees to participate before their daily duties.

The spiritual journey continued beyond these dates, with the pilgrim image visiting additional parishes including Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Bangkal, Immaculate Conception Parish in Mintal, and Sto. Rosario Parish in Toril. Each location offered multiple opportunities for veneration, with Masses scheduled throughout the day to accommodate the overwhelming number of devotees. The Immaculate Conception Parish in Mintal alone hosted three separate services, while Sto. Rosario Parish in Toril welcomed the image for both morning and evening celebrations.

Mother Mary’s presence of the Pilgrim Image of the Immaculate Heart of Mary from Pontevedra served as a powerful reminder of our universal Catholic faith and the special role of Marian devotion in the spiritual life of the Church. As the image traveled from parish to parish, it not only brought blessings but also strengthened the bonds of community among the faithful. The overwhelming response from devotees across Davao demonstrated the enduring power of faith and the deep love for the Blessed Mother that continues to inspire and unite Catholics throughout the world.

This memorable visit concluded with hearts uplifted and spirits renewed, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual landscape of Davao. The faithful departed with the assurance that though the pilgrim image had moved on, the grace it brought would continue to bear fruit in their lives and communities for years to come.