A sacred milestone in Bayambang
By Eva C. Visperas
AS Holy Week approaches and the air fills with reverence, I felt compelled to step away momentarily from the political landscape that often dominates our conversations.
Instead, let’s focus on a significant moment of spiritual transformation for Bayambang – one that highlights the deep-rooted faith and devotion that continue to guide the people of this old town.
On April 5, 2025, the feast day of Saint Vincent Ferrer, the Parish of Saint Vincent Ferrer in Bayambang was declared an Archdiocesan Shrine by Archbishop Socrates Villegas of the Lingayen-Dagupan Archdiocese.
This historic event marks a significant milestone for the community, reflecting the deep-rooted faith and devotion of the people of Bayambang.
In his homily, Archbishop Villegas said the elevation of the church wasn’t just about a building, but about the faith and unity of the Bayambangueños, who have long been devoted to Saint Vincent Ferrer.
“We must thank God because this is not just an act of a bishop. This is an act of God,” he said, adding that, “I am able to sign the decree only by the grace of God, only by the favor of the Church.”
The declaration of the church as a sanctuary was based on its antiquity, beauty, and devotion. The first criterion, antiquity, recognizes the church’s more than four centuries of history. “This church has been here for more than 400 years,” Villegas said, adding, “Antiquity reminds us that there will come a time when antiquity will cease, and when that happens, life everlasting takes over.”
The second criterion, beauty, was explained by Villegas as a reminder that “God alone can make beauty. Everything that is good is beautiful, and every beautiful thing is a reminder of the goodness of the Lord.”
However, the most important criterion was the devotion of the people. “Not just people, but devoted people,” he said. “You, my dear people of Bayambang, you are the primary reason why we have a Santuario.”
The archbishop also cited the town’s long-standing spiritual fruitfulness, noting that Bayambang has produced bishops, priests, and missionaries — a testament to God’s grace at work in the community.
Before ending his homily, Archbishop Villegas challenged the faithful: “Please make sure that your soul is more beautiful than this church.”
The Parish of Saint Vincent Ferrer, founded in 1614 as the Vicariate of Binalatongan, is the oldest church in the Philippines under the patronage of Saint Vincent Ferrer. It officially came under diocesan care in 1898, marking the beginning of deeper spiritual growth for the town.
The event was highlighted by a solemn Mass, with Archbishop Villegas, Auxiliary Bishop Fidelis Layog, and Parish Priest Fr. Reydentor Mejia leading the ceremony. Hundreds of devotees attended as the church was consecrated as an Archdiocesan Shrine.
Teachers and students of St. Vincent’s Catholic School of Bayambang, Inc., as well as various sectors of the community attended the historic event. Dr. Cezar T. Quiambao, husband of Mayor Niña Jose-Quiambao and former mayor of Bayambang, also attended, along with their child, Antonio, to show respect and join in the joy of this occasion.
The local government, led by Mayor Niña, played a key role in supporting the event, ensuring food, water, medical support, and security for the celebration.
Mayor Niña expressed her joy, emphasizing how the new title for the church would strengthen the spiritual life of the community. “I know this milestone will serve a great purpose for the betterment of Bayambang. Together, let us pray for spiritual growth and a strengthened bond as a united Balon Bayambang,” she said.
The declaration also coincided with the ordination of Fr. Alexander Martinez, the first new priest from Bayambang in 29 years.
With its new status, the shrine will now hold monthly visits and blessings for the sick through the intercession of St. Vincent Ferrer, the patron saint of builders and reconciliation.
It will also be required to conduct regular charity programs for the poor.
As Holy Week begins, may it inspire us to renew our devotion, reflect on our faith, and carry Christ’s love in our hearts, as the people of Bayambang have for centuries.
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
