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The profound devotion of Filipinos to the Blessed Mother, credited with sustaining their faith through life’s trials, was once again evident as the Filipino community in Vienna, Austria, gathered to honor Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary of Manaoag. Organized by the Association of Pangasinenses in Austria, in partnership with the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy and TMJA Religious Group, the celebration took place on Saturday, May 10, 2025.
The devotion to Our Lady of Manaoag is observed with two feast days: one in summer on the third Wednesday after Easter and another on the first Sunday of October. The summer feast commemorates the papal coronation of the image in 1926, while the October feast is associated with Mary’s title as Our Lady of the Rosary.
The event began with the prayer of the Holy Rosary at the Töllergasse Parish grounds, followed by a procession of the image of ‘Apo Baket,’ concluding in the church. The liturgy featured floral offerings, and the APA Choir sang Marian hymns. Faithful devotees gathered to seek the Blessed Mother’s intercession and express gratitude.
The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Josef Giggenbacher, parish priest of ‘Herz Jesu,’ with Fr. Sixtus and Fr. Alvin from the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy as concelebrants. In his homily, Fr. Alvin emphasized the connection between Mary’s faith and the enduring faith of Filipinos worldwide, stating, ‘Through Mary, we learn to welcome Christ into our lives, pray fervently, and stand in unity with one another.’
After Mass, a communal lunch was held at the Sacred Heart of Jesus parish’s multipurpose hall. Attendees shared a meal and further strengthened their sense of community.
The celebration was particularly notable for its large turnout of Filipino devotees, filling the church. The event served as a highlight for the Filipino community in Vienna, marking the culmination of the feast day observance.
The Origin and Legacy of Our Lady of Manaoag
Our Lady of Manaoag is a revered title of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Manaoag, Pangasinan, Philippines. She is regarded as the patroness of the sick, helpless, and needy and is depicted in a 17th-century ivory and silver statue of the Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus. The statue, brought to the Philippines from Spain by Father Juan de San Jacinto, now resides at the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary of Manaoag.
According to documented accounts dating back to 1610, the apparition of the Virgin Mary appeared to a farmer atop a cloud-veiled tree, instructing him to build a chapel at the site. Today, the basilica attracts thousands of pilgrims seeking solace and intercession.
A replica of the original image is housed at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Vienna’s 21st District, serving as a spiritual anchor for Filipino devotees abroad.
- Text/pictures:hector pascua
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