Oslob Church receives affiliate church status from Rome’s Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major

The Immaculate Conception Parish of Oslob, Cebu is proud to announce that it has been officially recognized as an affiliate church of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, Italy.

This esteemed designation establishes a special bond of affinity between the parish and the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.

The Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the four major basilicas in Rome, has a rich history dating back to the fifth century. Founded by Pope Liberius in 352 AD, it is believed to be the first church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is renowned for being the church that Pope Francis visits before and after a trip abroad and prays before the icon, Salus Populi Romani (Health of the Roman People) and other relics including a fragment of the manger of the Nativity.

The spiritual affinity between the Oslob Parish and the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major is rooted in the shared devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. As an affiliate church, the parishioners and pilgrims will participate in the spiritual life of the basilica, including its liturgical celebrations and devotional practices.

The petition for affiliation, a first in Cebu, was submitted by Oslob parish priest, Fr. Jonald M. Concha, and endorsed by Cebu Archbishop José Palma, who personally handed to the Apostolic Nunciature in Manila by this writer and has been successfully granted by the archpriest of the major basilica.

This achievement is a testament to the unwavering love to the Blessed Mother and dedication of the parish community.

The affiliation, which took effect on 4 March, is expected to strengthen the spiritual connections with the global Catholic community and deepen the devotion to the Mother of God.

As a result of this, Rolandas Makrickas, coadjutor-archpriest of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major proposed that the Oslob parish should receive a brick from the Holy Door of the said basilica.

The whole parish community looks forward to fostering this new relationship and exploring opportunities for spiritual growth and collaboration.

“We are overjoyed and grateful for this recognition,” said Fr. Concha.

“His affiliation is a blessing for our parish and a reminder of our shared commitment to spreading the Gospel and serving our community,” he added.