POPE Francis has designated the St. Gregory the Great Parish Church, an iconic landmark in Laguna south of Manila, a minor basilica.
Located in Majayjay town, the church is the first in the Diocese of San Pablo to receive the honor.
The Vatican granted the designation in a decree dated Jan. 25, 2025, following a petition submitted by the diocese in December 2024.
Bishop Marcelino Antonio Maralit Jr. of San Pablo called the designation a “wonderful blessing,” especially during the Jubilee Year of Hope.
“This church and parish is a living testimony of faith, hope and love for us. But we need to be mindful also that it is also a continuing reminder of our mission together with the Universal Church to bring the Good News to all,” Maralit said.
“And we have to continue to be the purveyors of God’s love and mercy to this world in continuation of that mission given and commissioning done to the first disciples of our Lord,” he said.
Minor basilicas are typically chosen for their historical significance, architectural value, and role as centers of worship.
According to the 1989 Vatican document Domus ecclesiae, a basilica must “stand out as a center of active and pastoral liturgy” and “set an example for others” in the dignified celebration of the sacraments and devotions.
A minor basilica also shares a “particular link” with Rome and the pope, as outlined by the Dicastery for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments’ document.
Founded in 1576, Majayjay is known for its rich history and as a refuge for Franciscan missionaries seeking relief from illness due to the area’s cool climate. This led to the need for a large, sturdy church building.
The church, which has undergone several reconstructions after suffering damage from three fires, was built in its present form between 1616 and 1649.
Over the centuries, it has withstood fires, typhoons, and served as quarters for American troops during the Filipino-American War. It was restored again in 1912.
Today, Majayjay Church is the largest parish church in Laguna and was recognized as a National Historical Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines for its historical and architectural significance.
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