Inside the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino

Faithful Venerating the Santo Nino

The inside of the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino is busy as a beehive. There were a lot of people milling about. Some were on their way to pray. There were also a handful of tourists, like me just admiring the centuries old church. The Basilica has a small museum which is open to visitors. Immediately upon entering the church you would notice the painting of important figures in the history of this church. I did not recognize any of the names there though.

Painting of Saint Augustine Contemplating the Holy Trinity

Aside from portraits, there were a lot of paintings depicting the history of the church. Among them is a painting of the discovery of the figure of the Santo Nino unscatched from the fire which ravaged the area. There was also another one which depicted the enshrinement of the Santo Nino and also marked the start of this church.

Old Bench in the Courtyard

Further inside, is a small courtyard with seats around the area. This serves as a waiting area for the people visiting the church. One of the important activities here in the church is to be able to pray in front of the Santo Nino and wipe their hankerchief on the statue. When I visited there was a very long queue of faithful waiting for their turn to pray. The Santo Nino is kept behind a glass panel but is visible for all to see. It was amusing to see the people pray in front of the Santo Nino, then snap a photo with their mobile phone.

Very Relaxing in the Courtyard

The Santo Nino here in the church is considered the oldest religous relic in the Philippines. It was supposedly the actual image of the Santo Nino which was given as a gift by Ferdinand Magellan to the wife of King Humabon, Queen Juana, upon their baptism into Christianity way back in 1521. If this is true, this would be an amazing piece of history. The Santo Nino here commands that wonder and respect from everyone in the church and every one just stands in awe.

Impressive Church Interiors

As for the church interiors, it was an impressive interior with some painted panels. There was a lot of faux-3-D painting which was reminiscent of the San Agustin Church in Manila. Incidentally, this church is also a San Agustin Church since it is managed by the Augustinian fathers. The stained glass windows on both sides of the church give ample light to the church despite the lights not being turned on.

Getting Close to the Santo Nino

I also took some time admiring the wonderful church before saying a little prayer to the Santo Nino. The Santo Nino is a major religious figure in the Philippines and is highly venerated throughout the country. In fact the Sinulog Festival, one of the biggest festivals in Cebu and in the country, is dedicated to the Santo Nino. The Ati-atihan festival in Kalibo, Aklan province is also dedicated to the Santo Nino. Such is the love and devotion of the Filipinos to the Santo Nino.

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