Date of visit: August 2024
During my stay in Iloilo on Panay Island in August 2024, I discovered the stunning Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral just a short stroll from my lodging. I visited nearly every day and found myself pondering aspects of the cathedral that I decided to explore and share with you here.
1. History & Architectural Style of Jaro Cathedral
The cathedral dates back to the late 16th century, but the present structure was completed in 1874. It suffered significant damage in the 1948 earthquake and was later restored .
Its architecture is a fascinating blend:
- Romanesque–Gothic fusion: Thick stone walls and soaring spires give it a solemn, majestic presence.
- “Our Lady of Candles” statue: This venerable image of Mary, around 400 years old, is housed on the church’s balcony and draws many devoted pilgrims .
2. Why It’s Worth Visiting
- Majestic interior: Inside, a soaring vaulted ceiling and beautiful stained glass create a serene space ideal for contemplation.
- Separate bell tower: Located across a nearby park, the red-brick bell tower was rebuilt after the 1948 earthquake .
- Center of local faith: The cathedral is a hub for religious ceremonies and festivals, deeply woven into the community’s spiritual life .
3. The Meaning Behind “INRI” on the Crucifix
At the cathedral’s entrance stands a crucifix bearing the inscription INRI—a Latin acronym meaning “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews”:
- I – Iesus
- N – Nazarenus
- R – Rex
- I – Iudaeorum
This signage on the cross reminds believers of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, symbolizing a core Christian confession of faith .
4. The “Providence Eye” Symbol
Inside, you may notice
- Trinity (triangle)
- Divine omniscience (the watchful eye)
Its origins trace back to ancient sun god imagery, but from the Renaissance onward, it became a Christian emblem for God’s protective gaze and moral oversight .
5. The Candle Chapel (Actual Name Unknown)
To the right of the cathedral stands a chapel dedicated to candle-lighting—a much larger space than I’ve seen in other Philippine churches. Perhaps its size reflects the cathedral’s devotion to “Our Lady of Candles” .
On its exterior wall, there’s a Bible verse from Psalm 18:28:
“For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.”
This verse expresses trust in divine guidance and the light God brings into our lives during dark or challenging times .
6. Stained Glass Inside the Chapel
The stained‑glass panels tell a rich symbolic story:
- Top central panel: Sun and a bird, symbolizing divine presence, the Holy Spirit, and resurrection.
- Middle panel: The letters P (alpha) and Ω (omega), a cross, and sheaves of wheat—representing Christ as the beginning and the end, his sacrifice, and the gift of eternal life.
- Lower panel: Bread and grapes, reflecting the Eucharist and unity with Christ through communion .
7. The Prayer Inscription in the Chapel
Next to the stained glass, a heartfelt prayer reads (in English):
“LORD JESUS, You are the Light of the world: we praise You, and ask You to guide us…”
(continues expressing longing for faithfulness, protection, comfort, and guidance)
Below this is a plea to “Our Lady of Candles”, asking for her maternal protection and affirming reliance on her support to become what Jesus desires .
✨ Final Thoughts
Visiting Jaro Cathedral sparked many questions—some of which I’d only encountered on myth-busting shows—so this trip was a perfect chance to uncover their true meanings.
