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 to see its new altar for the first time ahead of the canonical elevation of the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan 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 throughout the renovation.
The sanctuary had been closed from July 28 to 31 to allow 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. While 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 visitors to maintain reverence by respecting the altar and tabernacle and observing silence inside the church.
The renovated sanctuary will serve as the liturgical center for the Aug. 7 celebration, when the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan will officially become the Diocese of Calapan, a milestone recognizing the growth of the Catholic Church in Oriental Mindoro.
The celebration is expected to be attended by Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Cardinal Jose Advincula, Archbishop of Manila, and Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa, whose ecclesiastical province will include 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."
For the local Church, the renewed sanctuary stands as a visible sign of renewal as Calapan prepares to begin a new chapter in its pastoral mission as a diocese.
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