MANILA, Philippines — At a small chapel in Malate, Manila, you can find special relics from young people known for their strong faith and inspiring lives—some even on their way to becoming saints! Among them is a Brazilian surfer, Guido Schaffer, who was also a doctor. Guido used his medical skills to help the poor in Rio de Janeiro’s “favelas” and believed in caring for both the body and soul. Sadly, he died in a surfing accident, but his devotion lives on through his relic.
Another amazing relic belongs to Blessed Alberto Marvelli, an Italian engineer and social worker. He was known for biking around to bring food and help to the poor. Tragically, he was killed in an accident with an army truck while helping his community.
The chapel also holds the relic of Niña Ruiz Abad, a young Filipina from Quezon City and Ilocos Norte, who loved the sacraments and shared Bibles with her neighbors.
Visitors can also see relics of St. Carlo Acutis, the Italian teen and computer whiz; St. Kateri Tekakwitha, who was a Mohawk Native American; St. Dominic Savio, a student known for his devotion; and St. Philomena, a princess and early martyr. The chapel, which opens to the public from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (except Fridays, holidays, and weekends), shares stories of these remarkable young figures and promotes praying the rosary like the young French Blessed Pauline Marie Jericot.
This shrine offers free devotional items, books, and badges, giving visitors a unique connection to these inspiring lives!
