San Fernando church marks 150th anniversary

CEBU - The town of San Fernando may be divided by political differences but yesterday residents with opposing political stands were united as they celebrated the opening salvo of the 150th anniversary of San Isidro Labrador Parish.

Mayor Lakambini “Neneth” Reluya said it was the first time since she was elected as mayor that she saw a huge turnout of participants, during the caravan to kick-off the week-long celebration.

“In legal parlance, the Church is separated from the State. But when we know that we are serving only one, that is the people, that’s how we see the fusion of the two,” she said.

No one from the council members —not even Vice Mayor Antonio Canoy— was there to support the event. Canoy and the rest of council members except for councilor Samuel Enad who is still on leave formed the opposition group which has been critical of Reluya, yet a first-term mayor.

At least 150 motorcycles and 70 private and public vehicles joined the caravan for the town’s patron saint and about 200 devotees and members of the religious sector were there to support the parade, Reluya said.

As part of the week-long celebration, Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal will celebrate a Mass this Friday at the said church.

Designed by Domingo Escodrillas, the San Isidro Labrador Church was constructed in 1858 when it became an independent parish. According to records it was the only religious structure made of light materials.

For lack of funds however, it was only in 1886 that the construction was finished. Its Gothic design is meant to give the church a majestic appearance. — Liv G. Campo/BRP (THE FREEMAN)