THE Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary in Cardona, Rizal announces the pontifical coronation of the revered image of its patroness, Nuestra Señora del Santo Rosario de Cardona, historically known as “La Virgen de Sapao.” The coronation will be held on Oct. 7, 2022 during the 9 a.m. Holy Mass to be presided by no other than His Eminence Jose Cardinal Advincula, archbishop of Manila.

This day is considered especially significant with a triple celebration: the feast day of the patroness, the 150th anniversary of the parish and the eagerly awaited pontifical coronation.

The whole parish council and ministries, together with the supervision of its beloved parish priest, Rev. Fr. Bienvenido Guevara, invites everyone, especially local devotees and those from neighboring towns, to take part in the joyful celebration, highlighted by the pontifical crowning of the patroness.

From the simple chapel, Visita de San Francisco, which was originally made of bamboo and nipa, the church has gradually developed into a larger and more complex structure through the efforts of subsequent parish priests. As a way of thanking the parishioners and showing their devotion to the “La Virgen de Sapao,” the parish leaders have made every effort to give her a proper home. The arrangements are made with the cooperation of generous and well-wishing patrons that live locally and abroad.

Over the years, the church has become a sanctuary of “La Virgen de Sapao” for parishioners and out-of-town devotees, who regularly visit not only on the day of the feast, but also during the Lenten season and the Month of the Rosary.