Part 2
The next day, December 24 we took a taxi to visit the Church of Our Lady Victorious, where the wax statue of Infant Jesus of Prague is enshrined. The locals here fondly call him
"Bambino di Praga".
I stood in awe before the image of the Infant Jesus of Prague. Since childhood I have been praying to him for various favors. I never dreamed I would one day be right here where he is enshrined. Devotees from all over Europe were milling infront of the image praying and adoring at the same time the intricate and beautiful altar. Just below the image was the nativity with Joseph and Mary.
I prayed fervently for good health for family, safe voyage and the grant of a US visa for me. Deep in my heart I was confident these will be granted.
The prayer goes: "O my Lord Jesus, we gaze on you as a baby and believe that you are the Son of God, who became man in the womb of the Virgin Mary, through the working of the Holy Spirit."
Since the museum was closed, being a holiday, we went to the souvenir store just across the church to buy Jesus images and other items.
And surprise, a few steps from the souvenir store is a Pinoy store!
The Church of Our Lady Victorious is accessible by public transportation.
I hope we will have another chance to visit the shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague...
Part I
On December 23, 2012 we took Aegean Air to Prague for a four-day vacation in that beautiful city. The 21/2 hour flight from Athens was relaxing except for a few instances of short turbulence. Looking down from our window, I was awed by the snow-capped mountains.
But as we started our descent, I noticed there was clouds or was it fog all over. I couldn't make out any shape or light from down below. Surprisingly, I was not afraid, unlike before. I just prayed to Jesus, Mary and all saints for a safe landing. And we landed smoothly, thank God! All the passengers clapped, probably relieved. Only then did I realize that the other passengers were fearful. The Aegean pilots were good, just like Filipino pilots.
The Prague International Airport is modern and clean. We took a AAA taxi that took us to Josef Hotel. It was about 25mins ride through 1C degree cold. I noticed the snow on the grasses and pavements. The driver told us that it snowed the previous night. We missed the snow!
The Reception desk personnel were courteous and accommodating. We had no problem communicating as they spoke good English. We were able to check in quickly thanks too, to Expedia travel . This was our second travel which we arranged with Expedia, after Paris.
The room was modern, spacious and clean. I like hotel rooms with coffeemakers and coffee and tea. And it uses reclycable materials.
Since it was already past 8pm, we immediately set out to explore the city. The Old Town where the major Christmas activities were being held, was just a 10 minute leisurely walk from the hotel. The Old Town was full of tourists and locals enjoying the site. Christmas decorations and the bright, multicolored lights adorned the square.
Market stalls were still open selling handicrafts, winter accessories and food items.
We ate smoked Prague ham and sausages, simply delicious! The traditional cake was also yummy!
