Today, the National Museum of the Philippines and other stakeholders, officially turn over the Four Pulpit Panels of the Archdiocesan Shrine of Patrocinio de Maria Santisima – Boljoon, Cebu, to The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cebu.
Present during the momentous occasion are Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma, Cebu Auxiliary Bishop and Jaro Archbishop-Designate Midyphil “Dodong” Billones, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco, Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia, and various National and local officials.
In his message, Archbishop Palma, who also serves as a member of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, emphasizes the centrality of the Eucharist in the life of the Church. He explains that among all religious celebrations, the Eucharistic celebration in the Mass stands as the summit of faith.
He further highlights the significance of the pulpit panels, stating that the panel is not just a panel; it is deeply linked with the Word of God.
“In the pulpit, the Word of God becomes alive. Preaching makes His Word palpable and adaptable to life.”
The conservation process of the four pulpit panels is then presented by CALAHE Environmental Consultancy Services. These panels will undergo carbon dating to determine the age of the material.
Schedule of Events:
- March 14-18: Public viewing of the panels in Boljoon
- March 19-20: Installation of the panels in the church pulpit
- March 21: Thanksgiving Mass presided over by Archbishop Palma, followed by the blessing and unveiling of the panels at the church pulpit
Browse through the moments of this historic moment here.