Plans for Calungsod Thanksgiving Mass set

CEBU, Philippines - From parking areas to comfort rooms, all plans are now in place for the 27-hectare venue of the National Thanksgiving Day events come Nov. 31.

Archdiocese of Cebu’s committee on venue yesterday laid down the details to be incorporated in the South Road Properties, while making sure that spiritual concept is present.

Rev. Fr. Brian Brigoli, diocesan chairman for cultural heritage of the church said the templete or “small temple”, which will be constructed starting next week, will speak of Blessed Pedro Calungsod’s martyrdom.

The temple’s center, where the main celebrants will occupy, will be elevated two meters from the ground, he said.

The temple will have wings on its left and right to accommodate 300 concelebrant bishops and priests.

The altar will have a pyramid structure, which follows the law of the Church on verticality, he said.

“The pyramid structure signifies every longing and desire of man or the soul to reach God,” Brigoli said.

With the altar at the center of the venue, the 27-hectare lot will be divided into 15 blocks. Each block, Brigoli said, will have respective centers that can accommodate around 200 persons. Around 600,000 to one million people are expected to gather on Nov. 31 for the event.

People with disabilities and senior citizens will be accommodated near the altar, the committee said.

An additional stage for Sinulog dancers and the media will also be constructed. The blocks will accommodate the Holy sacrament, six LED lights, comfort rooms, souvenir and food stalls, among others.

Parking space that can accommodate around 10,000 cars will also be made available. Car passes will also be issued.

With the expected number of people attending, Brigoli requested the devotees to ride on their respective parish transports or join the 1 p.m. foot procession. Cebu City Hall, Brigoli said, will also provide at least 20 buses to transport devotees.

Engineer Edgar Watin, a committee member, called on construction companies to donate scrap iron, debris, sand, and gravel among others to fill the muddy area.

He said they need 600 cubic meters more of filling materials as a construction company has already donated 1,200 cubic meters of it.

Devotees are advised to bring umbrellas or extra clothes in case it rains during National Thanksgiving Day.

The event will follow the canonization of Calungsod on Oct. 21 at the Vatican. (FREEMAN)