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Calaca, Batangas
Calaca Church
Nurturing Faith and Legacy of St. Raphael the Archangel in Batangas
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- Calaca, Batangas
Calaca, known for its sunny beaches and old church, reflects a cultural richness tied to faith and resilience. The town’s dedication to San Rafael the Archangel, seen in the church’s structure, keeps attracting pilgrims, promoting unity and spiritual significance. The lasting importance of the shrine in Calaca’s culture is clear. Efforts to preserve it invite exploration of a symbol of faith, persistence, and miracles.
Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Calaca Church with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!
Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to Calaca Church. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.
Calaca town, situated in Batangas province, is celebrated for its sun-kissed beaches, inviting resorts, and delectable local treats. Beyond its coastal charm, Calaca is renowned as a pilgrimage destination, drawing devout visitors to the revered Calaca Church. Here, pilgrims pay homage to the miraculous dark-skinned San Rafael Archangel, the patron saint embraced by travelers, the visually impaired, those afflicted with physical ailments, and individuals seeking joyous encounters. San Rafael Archangel, often depicted holding a staff and a fish, finds his sacred abode in The Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Raphael the Archangel. Over the centuries, Calaca Church has garnered a devoted local following, its prominence rooted in the countless miracles attributed to the saint’s intercession. The people of Calaca have seamlessly woven this devotion into their daily lives, creating a spiritual tapestry that enriches the town’s cultural landscape.
Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.
Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.
The devotion to Saint Raphael the Archangel in Calaca, Batangas, has its roots in the construction of a chapel made initially from wooden materials. This dedication took shape about six years after Calaca was established as a town in 1836. The local community invested considerable labor and effort into the project. The transition from a wooden chapel to a sturdy stone church marked a significant milestone in the town’s history.
The construction of the stone church commenced in 1836, reflecting the collective determination of the local people. The builders faced the challenging task of gathering essential materials such as sand, stone, wood, and adobe. Interestingly, these materials were sourced from the nearby Balayan town, and their transportation involved navigating the Pansipit River using small boats.
The year 1861 marked the culmination of the dedicated efforts of the community. After years of hard work and collaboration, the church’s construction was finally completed. It stood as a testament to the resilience and unity of the local residents. The finished church was officially dedicated to San Rafael the Archangel, becoming a symbol of faith and perseverance in the town of Calaca.
Calaca Church stands out with its stunning frontage adorned with intricate designs, displaying an impressive Romanesque style commonly found in Spanish-era churches. The side pier buttresses not only add to the visual appeal but also act as lateral support, reinforcing the structure against seismic forces and highlighting its historical importance. What truly captivates visitors is the interior, particularly the impeccably painted ceilings, with special attention to the expansive dome ceiling that showcases a beautiful chandelier near the altar.
Having withstood the test of time, the Calaca Church has undergone several restoration efforts to preserve its beauty. Notable renovations include a roof replacement in 1972 and a façade restoration in 2010. These initiatives aimed to ensure that the church remains a captivating sight for visitors.
The church complex extends beyond the main structure, featuring additional elements such as a parish office housed in a two-story building on the western part of the compound. Moreover, a nearby museum holds a collection of historical artifacts associated with the church, offering visitors a deeper insight into its rich heritage.
The reverence for St. Raphael the Archangel has grown steadily throughout the years. Every Wednesday, devotees gather at his shrine to express their devotion, paying special homage on this dedicated day. A grand celebration of the miraculous image takes place each October 24, following the Traditional feast of St. Raphael in the Tridentine calendar. This festivity is marked by solemnity and vibrant colors, featuring a fluvial procession, the lively “Archangel Festival” street fair, the yearly offering of Lua, a dalit or intercessory poem, and concluding with a solemn procession.
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Over the years, ever since it was established, the Black San Rafael has gained a significant following with numerous devotees and pilgrims. Various miracles are said to be associated with its intercession. One particularly famous tale circulating in the small town revolves around the belief that the Archangel San Rafael, in the form of a young boy, descended and miraculously halted a storm surge that could have overwhelmed the entire community.
In acknowledgment of its importance, on October 24, 2014, the former Archbishop Ramon Arguelles, DD, elevated the parish’s status to the Archdiocesan Shrine of St. Rafael the Archangel.
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