MANILA — The Vatican has granted Sta. Cruz Parish Church in Manila the prestigious title of “Minor Basilica,” following Pope Francis’ approval. This distinction places the church among 25 others in the Philippines to hold such a title, highlighting its historical, architectural, and spiritual significance.

Known as the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Sta. Cruz Church now holds a closer connection to the Pope, gaining the right to display the papal symbol of crossed keys. This honor recognizes the church’s role in the community and its rich history.

Founded in 1619, the church initially served the growing Chinese population, with Jesuit priests at its helm. In 1643, a replica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar from Zaragoza, Spain, was enshrined, and Our Lady of the Pillar became the parish’s patroness. The church has faced numerous challenges, including damage from two major earthquakes and destruction during the Battle of Manila in 1945. The current structure, influenced by Baroque design, was completed in 1957.

In 1984, Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin restored the church’s original name, and in the 1950s, the Blessed Sacrament Fathers and Brothers fostered a deep devotion to the Holy Eucharist. In 2018, the church was named the Archdiocesan Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.

A formal date for the declaration of Sta. Cruz Church as a minor basilica has not yet been set.

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ROME – The Vatican has announced a slight improvement in the health of Pope Francis, with his condition remaining stable over recent days. In a bulletin released this morning, the Holy See confirmed that the Argentine pontiff is responding positively to ongoing treatments.

“The Holy Father’s clinical condition has remained stable, with a good response to the therapies,” the Vatican statement read, adding, “There is therefore a gradual, mild improvement.”

The Pope is no longer running a fever, his blood parameters are stable, and doctors report that his breathing has improved. However, the Vatican warned that the prognosis remains cautious, with doctors continuing to monitor the situation closely in the coming days.

In a reflection of his routine, the Pope received the Eucharist earlier today, then spent time in prayer in the chapel of his private apartment. In the afternoon, he alternated between rest and light work activities.

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