MANILA (RVA News): The Sto. Niño Cathedral in Calapan, on the island of Oriental Mindoro in the central Philippines, has reopened its newly renovated sanctuary, allowing the faithful a first glimpse of the new altar ahead of its scheduled canonical elevation to a diocese on August 7.
The sanctuary was temporarily reopened during the anticipated Sunday Mass on August 1, marking the completion of a five-month renovation in preparation for the historic ecclesiastical celebration.
In a message to parishioners, cathedral officials described the completion of the new altar as “a great blessing” and thanked the faithful for their prayers, patience and support during the renovation.
The sanctuary was closed from July 28 to 31 for final construction work before two major events: the establishment of the Diocese of Calapan and the hosting of SOLTARE Cup XVII, the annual gathering of Catholic clergy from the Southern Tagalog region.
During the closure, Masses and novena prayers were held at the nearby St. John Vianney Parish Hall. Although the sanctuary has reopened, officials said minor finishing work will continue before the formal inauguration.
After Mass, worshippers were invited to take photographs of the renovated sanctuary. Cathedral authorities, however, reminded them to respect the altar and tabernacle, and to observe silence inside the church.
The renovated sanctuary served as the liturgical centre for the August 7 celebration marking the elevation of the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan to a diocese.
The celebration was attended by Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines; Jose Cardinal Advincula of Manila; and Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa, whose ecclesiastical province includes the new diocese.
The occasion coincides with SOLTARE Cup XVII, which brings together priests from southern Luzon for fellowship, spiritual renewal and recreational activities under the theme, “Strengthening Brotherhood, Fortifying the Clergy.”
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
For the local Church, the renewed sanctuary stands as a visible sign of revitalisation as Calapan prepares to begin a new chapter in its pastoral mission as a diocese.
