The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) announced on Monday, Jan. 29, that Pope Francis has bestowed the title of minor basilica on St. John the Baptist Parish Church in Rizal province.
The diocese announced the Vatican decision on Jan. 26, following the declaration of the International Shrine of Our Lady of Good Voyage in Antipolo City.
"Indeed, this elevation of our Parish Church Saint John the Baptist to a Minor Basilica is grace upon grace for us here in Antipolo Diocese," Bishop Ruperto Santos said.
He also emphasized their responsibility to "uphold and maintain" the basilica as an instrument of charity and grace for their people while maintaining their Synodality.
Moreover, CBCP stressed that the title was accorded to churches worldwide that hold historical or "cultural significance," have "artistic beauty," or are considered important for church life.
The designation also signifies a closer relationship with the pope, in which they said the title of major basilica is "reserved for certain churches in Rome only."
Pope Francis also granted the title of minor basilica to the National Shrine of La Virgen Divina Pastora in the northern city of Gapan, the oldest church in the Diocese of Cabanatuan, on Jan. 23.
READ: https://mb.com.ph/2024/1/23/nat-l-shrine-of-la-virgen-divina-pastora-now-a-minor-basilica-cbcp-1