Feature:

A Visit to Molo Church

By Pepin

Iloilo’s history won’t be complete without mentioning the Parish of St. Anne, or more popularly known as the Molo Church. This historical landmark is exceptional in so many ways and it has been a famous stopover among tourists visiting the city of love.

The church is a gothic-inspired architecture, and everything you will see on its façade will make you feel you are standing in front of one of the cathedrals of Medieval England. The two striking belfries that sit on robust foundations give perfect outlines, especially when you are standing from afar.

But what is more interesting about the church is its interior. When you enter the front door, sixteen female saints (eight are standing on each side of the aisle) will welcome you, aside from the two life-sized figures of archangels San Miguel and San Rafael. They were all flawlessly chiselled and painted that they can enthral you by simply looking in their eyes.

There are five altars, the biggest one is at the center and houses St. Anne’s figure. On both sides are two smaller versions of the large altar, and they bear images of Jesus Christ and other significant saints. All the altars were carved out of wood and were properly fashioned to harmonize with the façade of the church. Moreover, some noteworthy events in the bible and of the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary were engraved at the bottom part of each, making them look more divine.

Up to this date, Molo Church continues to serve as an inspiration to the faithful followers of Jesus Christ, as well as a reminder of a well-heeled cultural heritage of the Ilonggos.