Philippines celebrates 500 years of Christianity
The first mass in the Philippines was celebrated on an Easter Sunday March 31, 1521.
“Did you know?”
Did you know that the Santo Niño was given the high military rank of Celentisimo Capitan General de las Esfuerzas en Filipinas (The Most Esteemed Captain-General Forces in the Philippines)? The statue is vested in a red cape and sash, symbolizing the rank of a general, and military boots. He has a wardrobe of suits and periodically changes His outfit.
This Baby Jesus was a baptism gift from Magellan to the chieftain Rajah Humabon (christened Carlos) and Hara Humamay (christened Juana) on April 14, 1521.
Today, the original Sto. Niño is in The Basílica Menor del Santo Niño de Cebú (Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebú).
We celebrate His Feast Day in January, the Sinulog!
