Mary Help of Christians shrine gets minor basilica status

MANILA, Philippines — The National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians in Parañaque City has been elevated to the rank of minor basilica.

According to the parish, Pope Francis has approved its elevation, making it the first minor basilica in the 22-year-old Diocese of Parañaque.

“Receiving this honor is truly a grace from God and a profound blessing for our national shrine and parish,” the parish said in a Facebook post.

According to the CBCP News, minor basilicas are distinguished by their special connection to the pope and the Church of Rome, serving as a sign of the Church’s universality.

Basilicas are granted the privilege of an ombrellino – a red and yellow, cone-shaped canopy – and a tintinnabulum, a bell mounted on a pole that can be carried in processions. 

They are also allowed to use the crossed “papal keys” on banners and signs.

According to the parish, the designation is “an invitation to become a center of liturgical and pastoral life for God’s people.”

The new basilica is also home to a century-old image of Mary, Help of Christians, which received canonical coronation in 2022.