A butterfly takes flight. That’s what St Andrew The Apostle Church in Manila reminds me of. Its unique shape is not accidental. It symbolizes the X-shaped cross on which Saint Andrew the Apostle was martyred. This magnificent structure designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin is more than just a place of worship. It’s a testament to faith ingenuity and artistry.
St Andrew The Apostle Church stands proudly in Bel-Air Village Makati. It’s a modern masterpiece dedicated to the patron saint of Metro Manila and Bel-Air Village. This wasn’t always the case. The church’s story began in 1965 with a dream. Residents of San Miguel and Bel-Air envisioned their own parish.
Their dream soon materialized. Don Andres Soriano Jr offered to build a church to honor his late father. The church was named after his father’s namesake Saint Andrew the Apostle. Manila Archbishop Rufino Cardinal Santos approved the project. Msgr Emilio Bularan became the first parish priest.
The cornerstone was laid on February 8 1967. This was the 69th birthday of Don Andres Soriano Sr. The Ayala family donated the land through Makati Development Corporation. The church’s opening on November 30 1968 was a momentous occasion. Andres Soriano Jr Jose Ma Soriano and Enrique Zobel unveiled the marker. Many others contributed to making this dream a reality.
The church’s design is full of symbolism. The butterfly-shaped floor plan arises from the cruciform shape. The giant chandelier above the altar resembles a halo. This copper cross is the work of National Artist Vicente Manansala. The entire structure reflects the Space Age of the 1960s a revolutionary design in its time.
Over the years St Andrew The Apostle Church has undergone several improvements. Msgr Emmanuel Sunga oversaw renovations in 2002. These included improvements to the flooring air conditioning and the altar. A new parish office annex and a carillon bell tower were also added. The church continues to serve the community. It stands as a beacon of faith a symbol of hope and a stunning example of Philippine modern architecture. Step inside and feel the spirit of this beautiful church. You will feel its history and be inspired by its beauty.