The Serene Sanctuary Above the Bustle: San Pedro Calungsod Chapel at SM Aura
SHARE THIS ARTICLE:Nestled at the pinnacle of SM Aura Premier, the San Pedro Calungsod Chapel stands as a beacon of faith and tranquility amidst the bustling cityscape of Taguig. This unique place of worship not only offers a spiritual respite for shoppers and visitors but also holds a special place in the hearts of those who come to honor their loved ones, as many do when visiting nearby resting places.
Dedicated to the memory of the young Visayan martyr, San Pedro Calungsod, the chapel is a testament to his enduring legacy. Calungsod, who was killed in Guam in 1672 for his missionary efforts, became the first Visayan to be canonized. His beatification by Pope John Paul II on March 5, 2000, followed by his canonization by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21, 2012, at Saint Peter’s Basilica, marks him as a symbol of youthful piety and dedication.
The chapel's architecture is a modern marvel, designed to evoke a sense of spiritual awakening. Its abstract cave-like structure, with a semicircular entrance, is reminiscent of the cave of the Resurrection, symbolizing hope and renewal. The interior is adorned with gracefully designed ribs that converge towards the altar, which is backlit to create an atmosphere conducive to contemplation and prayer.
With seating for nearly 300 individuals, the chapel provides an intimate yet open space for worshipers. The natural wood and marble finishes throughout the chapel enhance its serene ambiance, while the 12 Stations of the Cross offer a journey through Christ's passion and resurrection. A statue of San Pedro Calungsod, alongside one of the Virgin Mary, stands as a focal point for prayer and veneration.
Outside the serene Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod, a photo of Saint Josemaría Escrivá stands as a silent testament to his enduring legacy. As the founder of Opus Dei, a personal prelature of the Catholic Church, Saint Josemaría championed the call to holiness in everyday life, emphasizing that everyone is called to be a saint. Canonized by the Church, his image outside the chapel serves not only as a decoration but as an inspiration for the faithful, reminding them of the sanctity attainable in ordinary vocations and the universal call to sainthood.
The chapel's mass schedule is accommodating for both regular attendees and those visiting for special occasions, with services held from Monday to Friday at 12:15 pm & 6:00 pm, Saturday at 12:15 noon, and Anticipated Sunday Mass at 4:30pm, 6:00 pm, & 7:30 pm, Sunday at 10:15 pm, 12:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 4:30 pm, 6:00 pm, and 7:30 pm. This schedule allows for flexibility in worship, ensuring that the chapel is a welcoming space for reflection at various times throughout the week.
In summary, the San Pedro Calungsod Chapel is not just a place of worship but a sanctuary that blends faith, art, and architecture. It serves as a peaceful haven for reflection, prayer, and community gathering, all within the convenience of a major shopping mall. Whether you are seeking solace, wishing to attend mass, or simply looking for a quiet place to reflect, the chapel is a unique spiritual destination in the heart of the city.
SHARE THIS!
0 comments