A new downloadable PDF file containing 300 images of Philippine Catholic Church architecture is available for downlaod at Simbahan.net

I’m making available my inventory of images of Philippine Catholic church architecture comprising 300 images of 213 edifices from across the country. It includes mostly structures built during the Spanish colonial period. Check and download at simbahan.net.

A street procession during the La Naval festivities along Quezon Avenue near Sto. Domingo Church

Religious processions in the country do take over streets and vehicles have to give way. But for a heavily catholic nation, this is just common. Faith is expressed in the streets. Its alive and kicking compared to Western countries where the massive cathedrals are devoid of worshipers.

A priest preparing for a mass at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City

Today is Ash Wednesday and is the start of the season of Lent. For Catholics around the world, it’s a time of penitence and fasting as they recall the passion and death of Jesus Christ that peaks with Holy Week and culminates on Easter Sunday.

For this photographer, its another opportunity to document the different lenten practices of Filipinos. Where will I be on Holy Week? Will I be in Siquijor or Banahaw for the animist rituals? Leyte for the tais-dupol? Bulacan for the crucifixion? Or in Bantayan for one unique panata by children?

Catholic mass at the atrium of Shangri-la Plaza Mall

I was waiting for this mass as the one I shot before was held in one of the small floors. This time, the 1100H Sunday mass is held at the cavernous atrium. Like the one in Ayala Center Mall, Cebu, the view is something that reminds one of the massive cathedrals in Europe but a different setting.

One of the stations of the cross at the sprawling Iguig Church grounds, Cagayan province

Calvary Hills is located within the grounds of the Spanish colonial era church of Iguig, Cagayan. This area is known for its lifesize images of the stations of the cross which is popular with devotees during the Holy Week. Its elevation provides breathtaking views of the valley made fertile by the Cagayan River.