A wave of tranquility washes over you as you stand before the Parish of the Good Shepherd. Its story begins not with grand pronouncements but with humble beginnings. In the early 1970s a new subdivision Fairview Park emerged in Quezon City. Sunday masses were initially held in a repurposed motor pool. A Dutch Carmelite priest Fr Nico Hofstedes led these early services. The growing community yearned for a dedicated space for worship.
On August 5 1975 a significant event occurred. Jaime Cardinal Sin established the Parish of the Good Shepherd. He appointed Fr Fidelis Ruben Limcaco as its first parish priest. The first church was a small chapel at the corner of Commonwealth Avenue and Regalado Avenue. The burgeoning congregation quickly outgrew this space. The need for a larger church became clear.
The Regalado family who developed Fairview Park generously donated land for a new building. On December 10 1977 Archbishop Bruno Torpigliani led a groundbreaking ceremony. The construction was a community effort. Fundraising events such as Gabi ng Harana and Dinner Dances contributed to the project. The new church an architectural marvel finally opened its doors.
On August 19 1984 Cardinal Sin blessed consecrated and dedicated the magnificent structure to Jesus the Good Shepherd. Its stunning stained-glass window depicting Jesus is a highlight. The Art Deco ornamentation of the altar area a unique feature for the Philippines was added during renovations in 2007.
The Parish of the Good Shepherd wasn’t merely a building. It became a vibrant center of faith. It also served a vast area including Tala Bagong Silang and parts of Novaliches. Its influence extended far beyond its walls. In 1985 it was elevated to the status of an archdiocesan shrine. This reflected its growing importance within the Catholic community.
A momentous shift occurred in 2003. The Diocese of Novaliches was created. The Parish of the Good Shepherd was then designated its cathedral. It was renamed the Cathedral Shrine and Parish of the Good Shepherd. This further solidified its significance. The legacy of the Parish of the Good Shepherd continues to inspire. It stands as a testament to faith community and enduring devotion. It’s more than a church it is a living symbol of hope and growth in the heart of Manila.