A humble chapel built of nipa and bamboo. That’s where the story of Santa Clara de Montefalco Parish Church begins. It wasn’t always the grand church you see before you today. This is Santa Clara de Montefalco Parish Church in Pasay City. Its history stretches back to 1611. A small chapel was built then. It served the Catholic faithful of Pasay. Pasay was then under the jurisdiction of the Parish of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios de Malate. The journey to Malate was difficult. Thus a small visita or chapel was built.
For over a century Pasay remained a part of Malate. But the people of Pasay yearned for independence. They wanted their own church. Their devotion grew stronger. They requested masses in their own chapel. Their persistent requests were eventually granted. On May 16 1846 three masses were granted. They were in honor of San Roque and Santa Clara de Montefalco.
This marked a turning point. Devotion to Santa Clara de Montefalco flourished. Miracles were reported through her intercession. The people’s faith deepened. The desire for a separate parish intensified. Finally on December 2 1863 Pasay was separated from Malate. The Santa Clara de Montefalco Parish was established in 1864. The Augustinians administered the parish. It was later transferred to the Archdiocesan clergy.
One remarkable miracle is said to have occurred during World War II. The church and Padre Zamora Elementary School were used by the Japanese as a garrison. A nun cared for wounded American and Filipino soldiers. She was never harmed by the Japanese soldiers. People believed it was Santa Clara de Montefalco herself. The image of Santa Clara resembled the nun. The parish was also spared from destruction during the war.
The beautiful image of Santa Clara de Montefalco depicts her in her Augustinian habit. She holds a crucifix. The crucifix alludes to her mystical experience with Jesus. She also holds a scale and a heart. These symbolize the miraculous imprints found on her incorrupt heart. The crucifix imprinted on her heart was about the size of a thumb. Her canonization in 1881 solidified her status as a saint.
Today Santa Clara de Montefalco Parish Church stands as a testament to faith perseverance and miracles. It continues to be a place of worship and devotion for the people of Pasay. It is a reminder of the unwavering faith of its people. The church stands as a beacon of hope and faith. A living legacy for generations to come. This is more than just a church. It is the heart of Pasay City.