The Archdiocese of Cebu announced that the Oslob church, which is almost 180 years old, has been named an affiliate church of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major located in Rome, Italy.

“As an affiliate church, the Oslob Parish will participate in the spiritual life of the basilica, including its liturgical celebrations and devotional practices. This bond will also facilitate the connection with the global Catholic community, fostering a more profound sense of unity and shared purpose,” according to the announcement.

A GMA News Online report said that the Immaculate Conception Parish, which is located in the town of Oslob, southern Cebu has a storied past as had been struck by fire three times and was re-built by the parishioners each time.

The first fire struck in 1942, the second in 1955, and the third in 2008 almost destroyed completely the church but the image of the Immaculate Conception was spared, the report added. 

Meanwhile, the archdiocese posted that the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major is one of the four major basilicas in Rome and has a rich history dating back to the 5th century.

"Founded by Pope Liberius in 352 AD, it is believed to be the first church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is renowned for being the church that Pope Francis visits before and after a trip abroad and prays before the icon, Salus Populi Romani (Health of the Roman People), and other relics, including a fragment of the manger of the Nativity."

The affiliation of the two landmark churches took effect on March 4, 2025.

This connection, the Cebu archdiocese said, "is expected to strengthen the spiritual connections with the global Catholic community and deepen the devotion to the Mother of God."

"We are overjoyed and grateful for this recognition," Oslob parish priest Fr. Jonald Concha was quoted as saying.

"This affiliation is a blessing for our parish and a reminder of our shared commitment to spreading the Gospel and serving our community," he added.

(via GMA News Online)