Some facts and information about the Cathedral of Saint Sebastian in Bacolod City
Located in front of the Public Square of the City of Bacolod, is the Cathedral of San Sebastian. The church was founded by Bishop Mariano Cuartero on April 27, 1876. It is one of the oldest churches built here in Negros and has stood the test of time. The Cathedral’s baroque design framework and coral stone walls and interiors is an architectural marvel. The vestibule of the church offers a wide entrance that accommodates hundreds of people who go to mass every day and religious advocates who come on special religious occasions such as Lent and Christmas. Upon entering, you may feel a sense of deep serenity and spiritual illumination radiating from its peaceful environment. Congregation seating includes wooden pews where worshipers can sit comfortably and pray. Its chancel contains intricately decorated chairs and tables.
On one side of the church, candles and various religious artifacts such as rosaries and novena prayer booklets are sold for religious devotees. Church goers often bought candles and offered their prayers to the statues of Saints located at the side of the church and protected by a metal gate against opportunistic thieves. The saints wear colorful and beautifully embroidered clothes. The most popular religious statue in the church is the statue of a black Virgin Mary carrying a black baby Jesus. Legend has it that when you pray to this Black Mary, your prayers will most likely be answered. Typically, a candle is lit, and after saying a prayer, the padlock is struck against the metal door three times. Some people also offer flowers and donations followed by three clicks of the lock.
One of the biggest controversies facing the diocese is the issue of the implementation of the Reproductive Health Law (Ley de Salud Reproductiva). The church has stood firm in its position against the bill from the beginning. Priests celebrating mass always include their vehement protest against the immorality and vile intentions of Bill RH. They also put up a campaign poster against the politicians who voted for the implementation of the bill and called them “team patay” (Death Team) on the front of the church. They also made another poster and listed the members of the Senate who voted against the bill and named them “Team Buhay” (Life Team). This made national news and has been a matter of concern for COMELEC officials who have been monitoring the progress of the May 2013 elections.
