By Francois Bien Manalo, Anchor, Brigada News FM Lucena
Nestled in the rolling hills of Lucban, Quezon, Kamay ni Hesus shines as both a beacon of faith and a testament to the power of hope. Since its founding in 2002 by the compassionate healing priest Fr. Joey Faller, this five‑hectare sanctuary has welcomed millions of visitors who seek comfort, renewal, and a deeper encounter with the Divine. More than a pilgrimage site, Kamay ni Hesus offers an immersive journey that awakens the senses, uplifts the heart, and stirs the soul.
A Healing Church at the Heart of Faith
At the core of Kamay ni Hesus stands its Healing Church—a modern structure whose soaring lines and stained‑glass accents invite worshipers into an atmosphere of reverence. Here, Fr. Faller’s renowned healing masses draw crowds from every corner of the Philippines. Whether one arrives crippled by physical ailment, burdened by emotional pain, or simply seeking spiritual clarity, the church’s solemn liturgies and communal prayers foster an environment where miracles feel within reach. As sunlight filters through colored panes, hundreds unite in song and supplication, trusting that God’s grace flows strongest in shared faith.
The Ascent: Stations of the Cross and the Risen Christ
The most iconic feature is the 50‑foot statue of the Risen Christ, poised triumphantly atop a verdant hill. Pilgrims embark on a 300‑step climb, pausing at each life‑sized Station of the Cross. Every footstep invites contemplation of Christ’s journey from suffering to resurrection—an experience blending physical exertion with spiritual reflection. Upon reaching the summit, visitors are greeted by the serene gaze of the Risen Christ and rewarded with sweeping views of Quezon’s lush landscape. In that moment, the toil of the climb dissolves, replaced by a profound sense of peace and renewal.
Scriptural Vignettes Woven into Nature
Beyond the hill, Kamay ni Hesus brings biblical narratives to life. The Via Dolorosa Grotto recreates Christ’s Passion in vivid detail, capturing sorrow and sacrifice at every turn. Nearby, a life‑sized replica of Noah’s Ark stands as a testament to God’s covenant, its wooden planks and animal figures inspiring awe in guests of all ages. School groups and families delight in the Garden of Eden, where lush flora and gentle waterfalls set the scene for humanity’s first story. The Sea of Galilee installation—with its tranquil pond and rustic fishing boats—invites meditation on Christ’s ministry by the lakeshore. Each attraction marries artistry, theology, and nature, teaching as it uplifts.
A Feast for the Senses: Local Culture and Comfort
Situated along Lucban‑Tayabas Road in Barangay Tinamnan, Kamay ni Hesus lies just three to four hours from Metro Manila, making it an ideal retreat for urban dwellers. After morning prayer and reflection, visitors can savor Lucban’s famed pancit habhab—stir‑fried noodles served on a banana leaf—and the sweet‑smoky longganisang Lucban. Local vendors offer kapeng barako, a strong coffee that revitalizes weary climbers. With every bite and sip, one tastes the warm hospitality of Lucban’s people, whose traditions of faith and fiesta endure through generations.
Practical Details for Your Pilgrimage
Open daily and free of charge, Kamay ni Hesus welcomes all—though donations help sustain its ministries and upkeep. Pilgrims should wear comfortable shoes and modest attire, and bring water, hats, or umbrellas against the tropical sun. On weekends and during Holy Week, the center buzzes with special events: healing services, theatrical Passion plays, and guided devotions that deepen the spiritual journey.
A Journey of Faith, Hope, and Healing
More than a collection of statues and pathways, Kamay ni Hesus is a living testament to the enduring power of faith. Every stone, every steeple, every station beckons visitors to lay down their burdens and embrace restoration. Whether you seek a miracle, crave solitude, or yearn to walk in the footsteps of Christ, this sacred hill in Lucban opens its arms to you. Here, at the summit of hope and prayer, the Risen Christ stands ready to meet every pilgrim—inviting you to discover that the greatest journey is the one taken within.
