When the week started, I had the unexpected opportunity to see the Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat or the Manila Abbey. The Catholic religious Order of St. Benedict (OSB) founded this monastery in 1895. Unknown to most of my friends, the congregation is close to my heart because I was nurtured in one of their exclusive all girls schools. I grew up with the Benedictine principle of ORA et LABORA (Pray and Work). 


If given the chance, I want to see the historic and religious place again. It's quite a surprise to see a quiet and peaceful place amidst the busy, crowded and tiring life of the city.