SUMMARY
This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.
MANILA, Philippines – A Holy Week custom that the Catholic faithful in the Philippines will surely miss this year is the Visita Iglesia, which is part of their annual solemn commemoration of Jesus Christ’s passion and death.
The raging coronavirus pandemic has forced most Holy Week activities around the world to be held inside the houses of devotees. But though they may not be physically able to perform their traditions, online sites offer virtual alternatives which keep the fire burning in the hearts of the faithful.
Usually done on Maundy Thursday, the initial purpose of Visita Iglesia was to honor the Blessed Sacrament. For Filipino Catholics the tradition has morphed into a form of pilgrimage and meditation in which devotees visit at least 7 churches. (READ: 8 beautiful Metro Manila churches for Visita Iglesia)
St Pauls Philippines and St Pauls Audiovisuals have produced a virtual Visita Iglesia which will take the faithful homebound by COVID-19 to the ancient churches under the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia in Ilocos Sur. (WATCH: Stations of the Cross 2020)
Through this online pilgrimage, St Pauls Philippines hopes Catholics will have a meaningful celebration and reflection on the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The theme for this year’s Visita Iglesia is: “The Way of the Cross: Pathway to Dialogue,” in commemoration of the year of Ecumenism and Inter-Religious Dialogue and leading to the celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines.
Here are churches of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia in Ilocos Sur featured in this virtual Visita Iglesia.
- St. Augustine Parish in Tagudin
- St. Lucy Parish in Sta. Lucia
- St. John de Sahagun in Candon City
- Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion in Sta. Maria
- Conversion of St. Augustine Church in Bantay
- Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle Metropolitan Cathedral in Vigan
- San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish in Sinait
Watch the video here. – Rappler.com
For other online Visita Iglesia sites:
Add a comment
How does this make you feel?
There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation.