Father Jeff Fernandez, director of the Office of Worship

I first came to know of her as a child, hearing her name often, as her shrine is located in Antipolo, not far from my family’s home. Devotion to her in the U.S. began when a replica of her image — now enshrined at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. — was brought to San Jose years ago. For me, she has become an image of an immigrant, much like me and my family, who left our homeland in search of a better future. Our Lady of Antipolo is a maternal guide on this journey to a new land. She has transformed my faith through the example of countless devotees whose lives have been touched by her companionship in both the joys and sorrows of life. Her presence offers me hope and mercy.

Father Ritche Bueza, pastor at Holy Spirit

Growing up in the Philippines, I first learned about Our Lady as a child. I have always had a devotion to our Lady. Our Lady of Antipolo is the patroness of immigrants, especially Filipinos.  Her title says it all: "Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage."  My devotion to her brings me closer to her and increases my trust in her care; I know I have a Mother who is always with me. Her devotion to her Son, her trust in God's word, and her obedience to God's will make her a model of discipleship, and she inspires me to persevere in my vocation, trusting in God's promise: "I am with you always."

Annette Moreira, parishioner of Saint Francis of Assisi

I have had a devotion to Our Lady of Antipolo since I was 10 years old, and my family would annually visit the shrine in Antipolo, Philippines. It is wonderful to see Our Lady of Antipolo finally come to visit and rest in our Diocese. Praying to her brings me the feeling of safety and peace in my daily life. My mother was a devotee of Mother Mary after she converted from Protestantism.  Our Lady of Antipolo has always been the one we prayed to for our safety and for peace in the family.

Monsignor Willie Manrique, pastor at Saint John the Baptist

I have had a devotion to Our Lady of Antipolo for 60 years — since I was in elementary school. We welcomed her into our parish when the first statue arrived in the US before she was eventually enshrined in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC. I have been a devotee since 1974, when our family moved to nearby Antipolo.  We would make pilgrimages to her shrine since it was not too far from where our family lived.

The statue of Our Lady of Antipolo, a symbol of hope and faith, will be installed at Saint John the Baptist in Milpitas sometime in 2025. She is currently visiting parishes in the diocese, spreading her message of peace and good voyage.  The Valley Catholic hopes to run a future story at that time about this devotion and its impact on faith in the diocese, a testament to the enduring power of faith and community.