Climb the steps of faith as we approach Mary the Queen Parish Church. It stands as a beacon of hope and community. This church is more than a building. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino-Chinese community in San Juan.
In 1954, Archbishop Rufino Cardinal Santos established Mary the Queen Parish. It served the growing Filipino-Chinese population. The original chapel was in Pasay City. Imagine a small, intimate space filled with devout worshippers.
By 1963, the parish needed more room. Land was purchased in San Juan. This placed the church between Xavier School and Immaculate Conception Academy. On May 31, 1963, Cardinal Santos blessed the cornerstone of the new church. After two years of dedicated work, the church opened on May 31, 1965.
The image of Mary the Queen is particularly striking. She holds a globe. She looks upwards. This is “Regina Mundi” or Queen of the World. Her image is based on the apparition of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal to St. Catherine Laboure in Paris. St. Catherine saw the Blessed Mother standing on a cloud. Mary held a globe. She said she was praying for the world and everyone in it.
The title of Mary as Queen has ancient roots. The Church has used it since the fourth century. Saint Ephrem called Mary “Lady” and “Queen.” Hymns from the 11th to 13th centuries hail her as Queen of Heaven.
Pope Pius XII formalized the Feast of the Queenship of Mary in 1954. Initially, it was celebrated every May 31st. Later, St. Paul VI moved the feast to August 22. This is the Octave day of the Assumption.
Mary the Queen Parish participated in Manila’s Grand Marian Procession in the 1980s. The devotion to Mary grew. People flocked to the parish to honor her. They recognized her “merciful and motherly sovereignty”.
Over the years, Mary the Queen Parish has grown. A parish hall was added. An adoration chapel was built. The church continues to be led by Jesuit priests. They serve the local community.
In 1991, the altar was renovated. A resurrection cross was added. The parish celebrated its 40th anniversary in 1994. The new Adoration Chapel was blessed in 1996. The parish marked its 50th anniversary in 2004.
Today, Mary the Queen Parish stands as a vibrant center of faith. It is a testament to community. It embodies devotion to Mary. Take a moment to reflect on the history. Recognize Mary’s Queenship. Enshrine her in your heart. Establish her reign in your life.