Known as the most modern church in Cebu, the Chapel of San Pedro Calungsod stands proud inside the SM Seaside City complex. The entire area is so spacious, peaceful, and breathtaking. From afar, the building looks like an interesting puzzle. Up close, the sight of 100 concrete walls will amaze you. This air-conditioned chapel holds the image of San Pedro Calungsod with a seating capacity of 1,000 people.
Sacred Place of Prayer and Meditation
Anyone can visit this sacred place of prayer and meditation. Visitors may explore their Adoration Chapel, sunken gardens, and Stations of the Cross. The magnificent walls and unique architecture are just welcome additions. A wedding was taking place when I visited. As a result, the main door was closed to keep the ceremony private. I opted to visit their Adoration Chapel instead.
The Architect and Original Owners
The design was headed by Filipino-American architect Carlos Arnaiz. The Philippine Star reported on December 22, 2012, that Architect Arnaiz intends to pay homage to Cebu’s dynamic spirit with his contemporary design. The property was donated by Mr. and Mrs. Henry and Teresita Sy to the Archdiocese of Cebu and is dedicated to Pedro Calungsod.
About Pedro Calungsod
Pedro Calungsod is a Roman Catholic Filipino saint who was once a sacristan and missionary catechist. He arrived in Guam on June 15, 1668 with Jesuit priest Fr. Diego Luís de San Vitores. The missionary team preached Christianity and Roman Catholicism on the island through catechism. He also baptized infants, children and adults. On April 2, 1672, Pedro Calungsod and Fr. Diego were killed by two natives because of their Christian Faith. Pedro Calungsod was beatified by Pope John Paul II on March 5, 2000. Subsequently, he was officially declared a Saint by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21, 2012.
How to Get There
Jeepneys that take passengers from the church to other parts of the city are scarce so you will need to consider other options. If you are somewhere in the downtown area, it will only take a few minutes to reach the church by taxi. Similarly, driving to the church is fairly easy. There are plenty of parking spaces in the area, too.
Holy Mass Schedule
The chapel is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily and until 7:30 PM during the Mass days.
Sunday — 09:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Monday — 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM
Tuesday — 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM
Wednesday — 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM
Thursday — 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM
Friday — 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM
Saturday – 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM
