Church closed

I have so many fond memories of the San Fernando El Rey Parish in Liloan, even though I am a resident living in the neighboring town of Consolacion. When I was growing up, we would often frequent the church grounds to buy the town’s staple, masi, a sweet, sticky delicacy filled with crushed peanuts. It was a treat that instantly reminded me of childhood weekends. A few of my closest relatives either had a christening or a wedding in the same parish. Whenever I had to meet a few friends who wanted to hitch a ride with us on the way to the north, it was easier for me to locate them if we met in front of this church. It was not just a place of worship; it was a landmark, a meeting point, and a piece of home.

However, just recently, the church doors had to close after a crime was committed inside. CCTV footage revealed that a man entered the sacred place with a woman. They were sitting by one of the pews when the female suddenly stood up. The man then grabbed her and shoved her against the wall. He choked her, leaving her lifeless on the ground as he fled. Many candle vendors said they heard a commotion inside including muffled shouting, hurried footsteps, and then silence.

Reports said that the woman, from Negros Occidental, was accompanied by her husband who had previously been charged with violence against women. It’s heartbreaking that such a crime had to transpire inside a consecrated ground which is supposedly a place meant for peace, prayer, and forgiveness. It’s equally tragic that a crime like this had to occur at all. I have always believed there’s a diplomatic way to resolve matters rather than resorting to physical violence.

Following the incident, the Archdiocese decided to close the church until an act of reparation is done, in accordance with Canon Law. I worry for the faithful of Liloan who find refuge in this church, many of whom visit not only on Sundays but also on ordinary days when they seek comfort, silence, or simply a moment with God. At the same time, this is also a test of faith. The Lord said that the physical edifice isn’t the measure of one’s devotion but the steadfastness of belief. Faith goes beyond closed doors and manifests in how we live with and treat others, believers or not. Nearby churches remain open to welcome those unable to hear mass in Liloan. This closure is temporary, painful, but one that the community will eventually heal from.

In the end, we are reminded that faith and human connection are deeply intertwined. If one truly values life and the sanctity of marriage, it should never lead to anger or death but to understanding, patience, and peace. While the crime was done at the expense of others’ convenience, it’s a wakeup call for all married couples to settle things as peacefully as they can.