It has become a personal tradition of mine to travel and go to churches, where I light candles, and offer prayers on the 31st of October every year. This has been my way of Celebrating All Souls Day. Why 31st? because this day is the date I hold dear in my heart furthermore I don’t want to join the jam-packed crowd celebrating this season on November 1 and 2. I'm doing it a day ahead.
In November, cemeteries are often teeming with people paying their respects to their departed loved ones. However, in my case, I have a unique tradition. Instead of visiting a cemetery, I prefer to seek solace in the quiet sanctuary of a church where I can privately observe and commemorate this special occasion.
Each year, I wholeheartedly select a different church to visit. For this year, I've made the deliberate choice to explore the remarkable and historic Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church in Danao.
The Church of Danao- Sto Tomas de Villanueva
Only a handful of churches in the Philippines have stood the test of time, surviving the eras of Spanish colonization and World War II. In Northern Cebu, there were only about five churches that have retained their status as "one of the oldest churches of the country" one of which is Catmon which I visited last time during my Mt. Kapayas trek, and the historic church of Danao, which is another precious gem of the North.
Built in 1755, the Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church renowned for Danao Church has become the iconic landmark of the town of Danao. Aside from that it is located at the heart of the town and gracing the national highway, one would not miss taking a glimpse of the church's timeless beauty every time they pass by. And I am 100% guilty of this all the time! Its enduring beauty never fails to capture my attention every time I pass the bustling town of Danao.
It was afternoon when I arrived at the place. I was greeted by the beautiful architecture which stood proudly under the warm embrace of the sun. As expected, there were only a few people outside and almost none in the inside. I bought candles first from the old vendor, lit them, and offered my prayers.
When I was done, it was time to immerse myself and have a closer look at this masterpiece.
I am always amazed by the materials used in constructing the old churches in our country. Like the other oldest churches located in Cebu, Danao Church is also made of coral stones. I always fell in love every time I see this kind of architecture imagining its history and the stories it went through times.
The church was guarded by 6 guardian angels in front of it. The design of the facade is simple yet it has an aesthetic allure. There is not much design in the front making it very strikingly simple. It has 1 huge arc door and two arc windows.
One of the stunning features of the church is its octagon-shaped belfry that has 4 levels. Based on the internet it has 3 old bells! I wonder if the church rings the bells together or if each bell is designated to ring on every kind of occasion.
Do you think they have the same sound too?
Unlike other churches that have 2 belfries on each side of the church, this one has only one huge and interesting belfry.
It also has a unique roofing of red-orange bricks. The church has spacious grounds for parking and for churchgoers and visitors to walk around.
After filling my eyes with this timeless masterpiece, it's time to step through those inviting doors and discover the hidden treasure within.
I passed on the left wing of the church and was surprised to see a door labeled Porta Sancta. It is filled with a picture of the life of Jesus. This is the church's Holy Door.
I also observed that both wings of the church are made of arc doors with wooden old doors.
As I stepped inside, the church enveloped me in a tranquil embrace, and a profound silence filled the air. In contrast to the building which is made of stones, the insides are almost filled with wooden furniture, from the benches, the chairs, the doors, and the balusters.
Every element, from the pews to the chairs, the ornate doors, and the intricately carved designs, was meticulously crafted from wood, exuding a sense of rustic elegance that resonated with the church's rich history.
My favorite designs are the designs on the benches and the doors.
I love the combination of stones and woods in the whole interior.
As a wood lover, I found myself particularly drawn to the exquisite designs adorning the benches and doors within the church. The fusion of stone and wood creates a captivating and harmonious blend of materials.
I stayed within the church, savoring the deep moments it offered. The atmosphere, steeped in history and adorned with remarkable features, embraced me. It was a peaceful pause, a moment to remember my departed loved ones, say a prayer for them, and simply let time flow serenely within the walls of this remarkable church.
That's it for my moment of silence and appreciation in the historical church of Danao. I hope you enjoyed reading it. I wish you all safe and well always.
Don't forget to smile often.😍🤗😘