The Dudderar Chronicles

By Raquel

My parents and I embarked on an unforgettable day trip to Santarém, the sacred site of a miraculous Eucharistic event from the 1200s! Upon our arrival at the church, we found the tabernacle closed, and our hearts sank when we learned that it only opens for scheduled tours. Just as we were about to leave, a small group of American pilgrims arrived, accompanied by a priest. Without hesitation, we joined their group and eagerly participated in the presentation. To our surprise, the tour guide revealed an arranged visit to the Sanctuary, where we took turns climbing a ladder for a close-up peek into the tabernacle’s sacred contents. This tabernacle featured two doors—one facing the pews and another facing the Sanctuary. What an incredible privilege it was to witnessed the astonishing sight of the monstrance containing the Eucharist, partially transformed into human heart tissue!

After our visit to St. Stephen Church, we meandered through the charming streets of Santarém, immersing ourselves in the beauty of several other churches, the serene St. Francis Monastery, and the Porta do Sol gardens, which offered an awe-inspiring view of the magnificent Tagus River and the picturesque Portuguese countryside.

Até a próxima!

Raquel