Centuries-Old Church Prepares for Reconsecration
Ozamiz Archbishop Martin Jumoad announced that the Saint John the Baptist parish church in Jimenez town, Misamis Occidental, will undergo reconsecration before welcoming back parishioners. The century-old church was closed on August 5 following a desecration incident, officials reported.
The rites are scheduled for 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, coinciding with the feast day of Saint Roch, also known as San Roque, revered as “the healer.” This timing holds special significance for the community, local leaders noted.
Nine-Day Vigil Marks Penance and Healing
The reconsecration ceremony will conclude a nine-day vigil established by the parish as an act of penance. This vigil was organized in response to the sacrilegious act committed by vlogger Christine Medalla, who spat into the church’s holy water font, sources said.
Parish priest Rolly Lagada petitioned Archbishop Jumoad on Monday to consider reopening the church. He emphasized that the parishioners had united in prayer, penance, and spiritual renewal, demonstrating their commitment to restoring the sacredness of their place of worship.
Archdiocese Board Recommends Church Reopening
Following Lagada’s petition, Archbishop Jumoad convened the archdiocese’s board of consultors on Tuesday. The board recommended that the church reopen on Saturday after the reconsecration rites.
“The parishioners had already made reparations and penance due to the desecration of Jimenez church,” the archbishop stated. Community members expressed relief and hope that the reopening will bring healing and renewed faith.
Significance of Reconsecration and Community Unity
Reconsecration is a sacred ritual that restores the spiritual sanctity of a church after desecration. The upcoming rites symbolize not only the physical reopening of the Saint John the Baptist parish church but also the collective healing of the Jimenez community.
Local leaders and church officials highlighted the importance of unity and prayer in overcoming the incident’s impact. The church remains a vital center of faith and culture for the town, and its reopening marks a new chapter for its parishioners.
For more news and updates on Saint John the Baptist parish church, visit Filipinokami.com.
