Marikina Shrine Becomes First Minor Basilica
The Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Paul of the Cross in Marikina City recently earned a historic honor by being elevated to the status of a minor basilica. This significant recognition under the papacy of Pope Leo XIV marks a milestone for the shrine, which now stands as a beacon of faith and devotion.
According to reports from local church sources, the Vatican’s Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments approved the decree on May 13, 2025. This came after a petition was filed in December 2024 by the bishop of the Diocese of Antipolo, during the closing months of the previous pontificate. Notably, the decree was granted just days after the election of Pope Leo XIV, underscoring the importance of this recognition.
Second Minor Basilica in Antipolo Diocese
The designation of the Marikina shrine as a minor basilica makes it the second in the Diocese of Antipolo. It joins the Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Taytay, which received the same status earlier in 2024. This addition highlights the growing spiritual presence and influence of the diocese in the region.
Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos described the elevation as a “momentous blessing” and a “sacred recognition” of the shrine’s rich spiritual heritage and the strength of its faith community. He expressed hope that the basilica would serve as a place of prayer, renewal, and spiritual refuge, “echoing the love and mercy of God to all who seek Him.” He also encouraged the community to continue nurturing their faith and promoting evangelization.
Historical and Spiritual Significance
Established in 1975, the shrine is the oldest church in the Philippines dedicated to St. Paul of the Cross. Initially under the care of the Passionist Fathers, its administration was transferred to the Diocese of Antipolo in 2004. The shrine also houses the pontifically crowned image of Nuestra Señora de Fátima de Marikina, further emphasizing its spiritual importance.
With its new status as a minor basilica, the church gains a special connection to the Pope and the Church of Rome. It will be recognized by traditional symbols such as the ombrellino, a red and yellow canopy, and the tintinnabulum, a processional bell. Additionally, it now has the privilege to display the crossed papal keys on its official banners and signage, signifying its ecclesiastical dignity and unity with the universal Catholic Church.
Invitation to Pilgrims and Worshippers
Bishop Santos noted that the two minor basilicas in the Antipolo Diocese serve as pillars of devotion. They invite pilgrims and worshippers to encounter Christ in a deeply meaningful and transformative way. This new status is expected to attract more visitors seeking spiritual growth and connection.
This development marks a new chapter for the Marikina community, reinforcing its role as a center for faith and religious celebration. The shrine’s elevation to minor basilica status is a testament to the enduring devotion of its congregation and its significance within the Philippine Catholic landscape.
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