The Church of Santa Maria
Manifestation of People's Faith

    In the historic province of Bulacan, cradle of heroes and rich culture, lies a progressive municipality named after the Blessed Virgin Mary: the town of Santa Maria. This town is home to the Blessed Mother’s miraculous image, which has served as its protector for more than two centuries.

 

    A rich history of faith, enriched through the centuries, stems alongside the economic progress and development of this town. Narratives and faith testimonies about the miracles obtained through the intercession of the Blessed Mother, and the deep devotion bestowed to the Virgin through her image, continue to be shared to this date, thus having contributed to the spread of this devotion.

 

    At present, the town of Santa Maria and its people are guided continuously by a loving mother, whom they consider their life, sweetness, and hope: the Admirable and Miraculous Virgin of the La Purísima Concepción, Patroness of the Town of Santa Maria and Radiant Star of the Province of Bulacan.

 

The Admirable and Miraculous Virgin

 

    Deep devotion to Mary reveals the strong faith of the people asking for her intercession. The role of Mary in the history of salvation provides the vital link that connects humanity to her Son, Jesus Christ. It is due to this belief that the image of the La Purísima Concepción receives a wide and profound veneration from people from all walks of life. The answered prayers and petitions granted through the intercession of the La Purísima Concepción have been proven through the years and continue to grow as the devotion spreads.

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The Patroness of the People

 

    Since its establishment in the year 1792, the colorful and meaningful history of Santa Maria reveals its deep relationship and devotion to its patroness. Indeed, the evolution of the town cannot be detached from its devotion to La Purísima Concepción. The faithful believe that it is the Blessed Mother who places the town under her mantle of protection and guidance through the centuries. The town of Santa Maria and its relationship with La Purísima Concepción are a solid example of the special and sacred spot that the Blessed Mother occupies in the heart of every Filipino.

 

The Radiant Star

 

    Though the province of Bulacan is placed under the protection of the Immaculate Conception, which is the patroness of the Diocese of Malolos, the La Purísima Concepción holds a special place in the heart of every Bulakeño. Being the only town in the province named after the Blessed Mother, La Purísima Concepción is one of the most venerated Marian images in the province. Evidence of this is the numerous devotees from all parts of the province that flocked to Santa Maria, most especially during the festivities in honor of the miraculous image. La Purísima Concepción is loved and revered not only through the ardent devotion of the people of Santa Maria, but also of the people of Bulacan.

 

    The role of La Purísima Concepción in the life of devotees is reflected on how she is recognized by the faithful: a role model, an exemplar of faith, an intercessor, a good servant, and most importantly, a loving mother. These virtues, though heavenly in nature, are worthy of emulation in our earthly existence as her children, being guided to a fruitful life here on earth.  Indeed, La Purísima Concepción is an image of faith to behold, and a paragon of goodness deserving of the admiration and devotion of the people.

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