Sustainable Tourism and Heritage Churches
The Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
The cathedral conjures memories of:
a moss covered stone facade church,
multistorey saint-filled altar,
ionic and corinthian columns,
squeaky old church pews,
Memories of attending masses there evoke images of:
veiled elderly women clad in black,
CWL ladies in their trademark maroon uniforms,
burning red candles in metal barrels,
boring and judgmental priests,
being denied communion because of outfit issues,
a unique scent of urine, burning candles and sweat,
it was like living in the pages of Noli Me Tangere...
Now the Cathedral is all cleaned up and air-conditioned,
The facade, bell tower and plaza where restored,
But the altar and interiors have been modernized...
which is sad and tragic...
shows that good intentions need to be tempered by informed effort...
It would be considered BEST PRACTICE,
if the local archdiocese do INFORMED restoration projects,
in order not to destroy historic buildings
like heritage churches...
Although the church may have dominion over the properties,
the heritage of historic churches belong to the people,
thus its proper restoration-
a moral imperative.
Now, there is a prayer room,
the grounds are open to the public,
and there is a decent rest room...
Attending mass may now be more comfortable,
the priest more prepared and informed...
Perhaps a restoration of faith in the church,
could also come next...
An INFORMED RESTORATION,
as well...
