Manaoag Church: The Sacred Beauty of Pangasinan
Pangasinan is one of the places in our country which has many ancient churches. Churches have been standing strong since the pre-colonial and colonial periods. One of these is the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag.
Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag
The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag is one of the churches in the Philippines with the most visitors. Additionally, it is located on a hill near the provincial capital of Pangasinan, the small town of Manaoag. Moreover, it houses the miraculous image of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, sometimes referred to as Apo Baket or Ina’n Birhen na Manaoag.
The Patroness of the ill and Helpless
Old Folk Tradition in the 1600s holds that a farmer is said to have witnessed the appearance of the Blessed Mother. According to the farmer, she spoke with him about the location of her church through a heavenly glow of light. And then, the farmer delivered the message to the locals, and shortly after that, they erected a modest church.
Throughout the years, many revelations happens due to the miracle of the church. And this is one of the sole reasons why devotees became loyal to serving and praying to the patron saint. Over the years, Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag quickly rose to fame as the Patroness of the ill and those in desperate need of God’s help and healing.
History of Manaoag Church
In 1605, the Dominicans established a mission at Manaoag. Afterwards, the Dominican mission received the image of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag initially from Baloquing. Thenceforth, in 1926, the miraculous image was given canonical status. Accordingly, the Catholic Church formally recognized and announced that throughout the ages, worshippers have received favors and blessings from Manaoag Church.
In 2014, Pope Francis recognized the church as a Minor Basilica. Consequently, the National Museum of the Philippines formally asserted the Manaoag Church as a National Cultural Treasure.
The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag is just one of the ancient churches that Pangasinan can offer to the world. This church has continuously been the living proof of the spirituality, culture, and tradition of the Filipino people.
Now is the right time to see our own beauty–the beauty that goes beyond picturesque. A beauty that transcends our spirits.
