MANILA (SE): The shrine of St. Paul of the Cross in Marikina, the Philippines was elevated to the status of minor basilica following a decree issued by the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments on May 13. It is the first shrine in the country to receive the honor under the papacy of Pope Leo XIV—five days after he was elected pope, CBCP News reported.
The elevation, granted at the request of Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos of Antipolo, recognises the spiritual significance and active faith of the community of the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Paul of the Cross.
The shrine is now the second minor basilica in the Diocese of Antipolo, joining the Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Taytay, which received the title in early 2024.
Bishop Santos called the elevation a “momentous blessing” and “sacred recognition” for the shrine and the diocese.
“May this basilica become a haven of prayer, renewal, and spiritual refuge, echoing the love and mercy of God to all who seek Him,” the bishop said.
CBCP News reported the bishop as saying the two minor basilicas in the diocese stand as pillars of devotion, inviting pilgrims and worshippers “to encounter Christ in a profound and transformative way.”
Bishop Santos said, “As we celebrate this divine gift, may we continue to nurture and strengthen our faith, bringing forth the spirit of evangelization in our community.”
Established as a parish in 1975, the shrine is the oldest church in the Philippines dedicated to St. Paul of the Cross. First served by the Passionist Fathers, pastoral care of the parish was turned over to the diocese in 2004. It is also home to the pontifically crowned image of the Nuestra Señora de Fatima de Marikina.
