MAJAYJAY, LAGUNA — The historic St. Gregory the Great Parish Church in Majayjay, Laguna has been officially designated as a minor basilica by Pope Francis, marking a significant milestone as the first church under the Diocese of San Pablo to receive this prestigious honor.
The designation was granted through a Vatican decree dated January 25, 2025, following a petition submitted by the diocese in December 2024, according to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).
San Pablo Bishop Marcelino Antonio Maralit Jr. described the recognition as a “wonderful blessing,” especially as it coincides with the Jubilee Year of Hope.
“This church and parish is a living testimony of faith, hope, and love for us,” said Bishop Maralit. “But we must also remember that it serves as a continuing reminder of our mission with the Universal Church—to bring the Good News to all. We are called to be purveyors of God’s love and mercy, continuing the mission entrusted to the first disciples of our Lord.”
Significance of a Minor Basilica
Minor basilicas are designated based on their historical significance, architectural value, and role as centers of worship. They also share a special bond with Rome and the pope, as outlined by the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.
Founded in 1576, the Majayjay Church holds a rich history, having served as a refuge for Franciscan missionaries seeking relief from illness due to the area’s cool climate. The church has undergone multiple reconstructions after being damaged by fires, with its current structure built between 1616 and 1649.
Over the centuries, it has endured both natural and man-made disasters, including being used as quarters for American troops during the Filipino-American War. It was last restored in 1912.
Today, St. Gregory the Great Parish Church stands as the largest parish church in Laguna and has been recognized as a “National Historical Treasure” by the National Museum of the Philippines for its architectural grandeur and historical importance.
This latest recognition not only highlights the church’s enduring legacy but also reinforces its role as a spiritual beacon, linking the faithful of Majayjay to the broader Universal Church.