Meycauayan, Bulacan

Meycauayan Church

Resilience and Restoration Through the Sands of Time

PUBLISHED August 28, 2016

PHOTOS | WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO

The Meycauayan Church, with its storied past and enduring spirit, stands as a testament to the commitment of the community in safeguarding its rich religious and historical heritage for generations to come.

Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Meycauayan 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 Meycauayan Church. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.

The Meycauayan Church, also known as the Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Church, stands as a historical gem in Bulacan province, predating even the Malolos Cathedral and Barasoain Church, making it one of the oldest churches still in existence today. Founded in 1578 by Franciscan priests Fr. Juan de Plasencia and Fr. Diego de Oropeza, its history is as rich and varied as its architectural evolution.

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.

Originally, the church was a modest structure made of nipa palm leaves and bamboo. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by a typhoon in 1588. The Spanish government responded to the locals’ request for a more durable place of worship by decreeing the construction of an adobe church in 1589. This adobe church served the town until 1668, when it was relocated to its present site due to attacks by natives.

In 1668, under the guidance of Fray Nicolas Santiago, the construction of the current stone church began. This site became notable as one of the first in the country to have its parish and municipal halls in close proximity. The church underwent significant enhancements over the years, including the construction of the present convent in 1731 and the addition of a bell tower in 1800.

The bell tower, constructed by Father Francisco Gascueña, is particularly unique due to its large arch bridge connecting it to the church’s base. It originally housed five bells, the largest of which was named Maria Conception in 1878. Father Gascueña, a cherished figure among the parishioners, was buried beneath the main altar upon his death in 1831.

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Throughout its history, the church has faced numerous trials. During the Philippine-American War, it was used as a headquarters by the American army, resulting in damage and loss of church possessions. Despite its resilience through World War II, the church was severely affected by “The Great Fire of Meycauayan” in 1949, which destroyed many records, vestments, statues, and memorabilia. However, some items, including the tabernacle, were saved and are now displayed in the parish museum.

Recent restoration efforts have focused on the church’s interior walls and sanctuary, including the recreation of the neoclassic altarpiece of Father Benito Madridejos. Despite its numerous challenges, the Meycauayan Church continues to stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the community and its commitment to preserving its historical and religious heritage. Among its notable relics is the Cross of Sitio Torril, a significant artifact brought by the Franciscans in the early years of the town’s settlement, and it is displayed annually during the October 4th celebration for public veneration.

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