(Infographics courtesy of National Shrine of La Virgen Divina Pastora Facebook page)
MANILA – The centuries-old National Shrine of La Virgen Divina Pastora, more popularly known as the Three Kings Parish in Gapan City, Nueva Ecija has been declared as a minor basilica.
Cabanatuan Bishop Sofronio Bancud reported that Pope Francis has bestowed the title of minor basilica to the parish, the first in the province.
"It is with great joy to announce to you that the National Shrine of La Virgen Divina Pastora in Gapan City, Nueva Ecija, has been honored by our Holy Father, Pope Francis, with the title of Minor Basilica, making this centuries-old church the first minor basilica in the province of Nueva Ecija," read a pastoral statement Tuesday.
The Catholic prelate announced that the solemn celebration of the granting of the title of Minor Basilica will be held on April 26.
The Mass during the event will be celebrated by the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Charles John Brown, with bishops, clergy, consecrated persons, pilgrims, with devotees of La Virgen Divina Pastora and the faithful of the Diocese of Cabanatuan expected to attend.
The title minor basilica is bestowed on churches that have been given a special designation by the Pope for reasons like architectural beauty, historical significance, liturgical renown, or for any combination of the said attributes.
Founded in 1589, the Three Kings Parish is acknowledged as the oldest and biggest Spanish colonial church in Nueva Ecija.
The earthquake baroque church has brick-and-adobe features, and a mural of the Holy Trinity on the ceiling above the altar, while its belfry houses four huge bells.
It was declared as a national shrine by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines on April 26, 1986. (PNA)
