Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary (Reina del Caracol) - Diocese of Imus

Embarking on our ecclesiastical journey, we reached the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary - Reina Del Caracol in Rosario, Cavite. Although I had casually dropped by the church on a previous occasion, my profound connection unfolded on October 15 when I attended my first official mass. Originally scheduled for a week earlier, my weary body compelled a postponement, aligning serendipitously with the town and parish's lively Fiesta de Oktubre celebration.

This parish commemorates two fiestas – one in honor of the Image's arrival in May and the second dedicated to the Rosary in October. During my visit, the Dominican Saints procession was held as part of the Fiesta de Oktubre celebration.

Rosario, once a coastal town known as Salinas-Marsella for its salt industry, underwent a transformative renaming to honor Our Lady of the Rosary - Reina del Caracol. A poignant tale from the Spanish era unfolds, recounting a ship's desperate encounter with furious winds and rain, teetering on the brink of sinking. Terrified crewmen discovered the framed image of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary in the cabin. In a heartfelt plea, they prayed to the Virgin Mary, vowing to build a chapel in her honor for their safety. Miraculously saved, they fulfilled their promise by constructing a chapel in Muzon, setting in motion the town's enduring fiesta tradition and culminating in the construction of a grander church at the present parish site.

The church patron is Our Lady of the Rosary, affectionately bestowed with the symbolic title of Reina del Caracol because of the heartfelt dances performed by the devoted parishioners. You may know more about Reinal Del Caracol thru their official facebook page.

A notable highlight of this parish is the vibrant celebration of their Caracol. The procession resembles a Translacion, particularly as it nears the church premises. The gathering of more and more people creates a wave-like movement, guiding the Image back to the church.

As we contemplate the mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may we imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise through Christ, Our Lord. May we be recipients of abundant grace, feel the comforting presence of our Lady, and draw ever closer to Christ in our daily lives.