A miraculous healing sparked its creation. Welcome to the Greenbelt Chapel a sanctuary nestled within the vibrant Ayala Center. This isn’t just any chapel. It’s a testament to faith hope and a remarkable story of recovery.
The Greenbelt Chapel officially known as the Santo Niño de Paz Chapel has a unique origin story. Fanny Diploma a woman battling terminal cancer prayed for healing. She vowed to serve God if she recovered. Her prayer was answered. This remarkable recovery led her and her husband Atty. Nordy Diploma to build this chapel as a thank you.
They chose a surprising location the center of a lagoon in the Makati Central Business District. The Ayalas the land owners agreed under one condition the chapel had to be removable. The design had to be temporary. The architects ingeniously created a steel-framed dome using marine plywood. This lightweight design ensured the chapel could potentially be moved by helicopter. The chapel was never meant to be permanent. This was a crucial part of the initial agreement with the Ayalas.
Contrary to common belief the Greenbelt Chapel wasn’t built from thin shell concrete nor designed by Leandro Locsin. Enrique Dizon the lead architect collaborated with Topy Vasquez. They faced budget limitations forcing them to remove the planned basement. The sacristy and offices were instead built as small extensions.
Adding to the chapel’s beauty are the glass sculptures by Ramon Orlina. His stunning cross and altar piece enhance the chapel’s simple yet striking architecture. Cardinal Jaime Sin dedicated the Greenbelt Chapel in 1983 along with Jaime Zobel de Ayala and the Diplomas.
Fanny Diploma’s temporary chapel has become a beloved landmark. It serves the busy community in the heart of Makati. The chapel has even supported parishes across the Philippines through donations. The Greenbelt Chapel stands as a symbol of faith resilience and the enduring power of prayer. During the Christmas season the air is filled with the spirit of Simbang Gabi. This chapel is a place of peace and comfort for many. It is a testament to the unwavering faith of one woman.