3 Fascinating Churches in Tarlac

It's always been clear to me that most of the best examples of architecture can be found in churches. While I'm not particularly religious and may or may not have unshakable faith, I could appreciate hallowed calm and interesting backstories. So, whether you're looking for candidates for your next Visita Iglesia, or are simply fascinated by the things in this world (as you should), here is a trio of Tarlac churches that warrants a stopover or two.

Canan, Paniqui,Tarlac
In the town of Paniqui stands Asia's first and only parish dedicated to Saint Faustina Kowalska. The Santa Faustina of the Divine Mercy Parish is also significant for it holds a relic of the Polish saint.


The holy place is deemed miraculous and devotees, not just in Tarlac but from all over the country, flock to this church, readily delivering testimonies on how an illness was cured solely by their faith and prayers.

One of the most interesting churches in the country can be found in the town of Gerona. Dedicated to Jose Maria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, the St. Josemaria Escriva Parish was designed by architect Father Alex Bautista. Construction started in 2011, taking three years to finally be completed.


Some features look like steel or wood but everything in the church is made of concrete, pre-cast and installed on site. But it's most noteworthy aspect is its "drive-thru" at the back, built to allow devotees to visit the Holy Sacrament at night and even when the church is closed. It also houses a relic of the saint.

Another church designed by architect-cum-priest Father Alex Bautista, La Sagrada Familia Parish is distinct for its intricate and lofty facade. Located closer to the fields than to the town center, the church's design makes good use of the relatively small plot of land it now sits on.


The entrance angles left to the altar which is framed by a cross-hatch of recessed ceiling. Also on the altar is a slab of the Papal table used during the 2015 Papal Mass held in Luneta.