Antipolo Cathedral Elevated to Marian 'International Shrine' Status by Vatican" The Antipolo Cathedral, also known as the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage National Shrine, has received the prestigious status of Marian "International Shrine" from the Vatican. The symbolic coronation and solemn declaration ceremony were led by Most Rev. Charles Brown, D.D., the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, on Friday. During the ceremony, Brown reflected on the significant role of "Our Lady of Antipolo" in the history of the country and the Catholic Church, emphasizing the evident popular piety and religiosity of the Filipino masses. He mentioned recent events like the 'Simbang Gabi' masses, the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene, and the Sinulog Festival of Sto. Niño as examples of the strong popular piety among Filipinos. Brown also acknowledged the tradition of the 'Alay-Lakad' procession in Antipolo, describing it as a "wonderful pilgrimage on foot" that takes place every April 30th and May 1st. He emphasized the importance of 'synodality,' with over 85 bishops witnessing the declaration, in bringing believers closer to the church. The Papal Nuncio highlighted the significance of church leaders being present at the ceremony, emphasizing the need to "walk and listen" to the simple and poor followers of the Catholic Church. The arrival of Brown, representing Pope Francis's leadership, symbolizes the interconnectedness of the local church with the universal Catholic community and grants global recognition to the local celebration. Most Rev. Francisco De Leon, D.D., Bishop Emeritus of Antipolo, proclaimed the Latin Decree, while Rev. Msgr. Bernardo Patin read its English translation. The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Rizal Governor Rebecca Ynares, Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares, and other officials from the local government, along with hundreds of priests from the Diocese of Antipolo.

 Antipolo Cathedral Elevated to Marian 'International Shrine' Status by Vatican

The Antipolo Cathedral, also known as the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage National Shrine, has received the prestigious status of Marian "International Shrine" from the Vatican. The symbolic coronation and solemn declaration ceremony were led by Most Rev. Charles Brown, D.D., the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, on Friday.

During the ceremony, Brown reflected on the significant role of "Our Lady of Antipolo" in the history of the country and the Catholic Church, emphasizing the evident popular piety and religiosity of the Filipino masses. He mentioned recent events like the 'Simbang Gabi' masses, the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene, and the Sinulog Festival of Sto. Niño as examples of the strong popular piety among Filipinos.

Brown also acknowledged the tradition of the 'Alay-Lakad' procession in Antipolo, describing it as a "wonderful pilgrimage on foot" that takes place every April 30th and May 1st. He emphasized the importance of 'synodality,' with over 85 bishops witnessing the declaration, in bringing believers closer to the church

The Papal Nuncio highlighted the significance of church leaders being present at the ceremony, emphasizing the need to "walk and listen" to the simple and poor followers of the Catholic Church. The arrival of Brown, representing Pope Francis's leadership, symbolizes the interconnectedness of the local church with the universal Catholic community and grants global recognition to the local celebration.

Most Rev. Francisco De Leon, D.D., Bishop Emeritus of Antipolo, proclaimed the Latin Decree, while Rev. Msgr. Bernardo Patin read its English translation. The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Rizal Governor Rebecca Ynares, Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares, and other officials from the local government, along with hundreds of priests from the Diocese of Antipolo.(PNA)