Tips for Tourists: How to Behave in Catholic Churches in Cebu
Before visiting the Philippines, you have most likely done your research and found out that the Philippines is a predominantly Roman Catholic country. Catholicism plays a major role in nearly all aspects of Filipino life – including governance (even though some in the Church will probably vehemently deny it).Fast Facts:
The Philippines is the only primarily Catholic country in Asia.
Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer sailing under the Spanish flag, first landed in the shores of Cebu. Cebu is where the Spanish colonizers first attempted to convert the native Filipinos to Christianity.
Catholics worship saints.
Catholics pray in front of statues made in the perceived likeness of Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the saints.
As we mentioned above, Catholicism permeates many aspects of a Filipino Catholic’s life – from making the sign of the cross before doing nearly anything, to Celebrating holidays such as Christmas, Lent, Holy Week and All Souls’/Saints’ Day.
The Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral in Cebu City
In every city, municipality and town in Cebu, you will find churches – some are really old stone churches that date back to the 1700s. While in every barangay, you will find colorfully-painted chapels.
The Carmelite Monastery in Mabolo
The Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, one of the oldest church in Cebu
How to Behave
If you do visit one of these churches or chapels, here are some tips. (Some may roll their eyes at these tips and say “hey, it’s common sense”. Since not everyone is Catholic, let’s assume nothing. Agreed?)
Do not eat, drink or chew gum inside the church. It doesn’t matter if you’re attending mass or just praying.
Be quiet, or if you really need to say something, keep your voice low and speak in hushed tones. The church is not a place for chatting.
Dress appropriately. There are some churches that actually have posters of what NOT to wear when inside. Vests (or tank tops/singlets), short shorts, skimpy skirts, tube tops, transparent shirts and blouses that show off a huge chunk of the belly are usually frowned upon.
Turn off your cellphone. Or at least, keep it in silent mode.
Avoid flash photography. Take pictures and videos discreetly and if you can, please turn down the shutter sound.
Stay away from the altar. The altar is not a place to pose and take pictures in. It is sacred.
If there’s a holy mass going on, avoid walking around inside the church and being a nuisance. Wait until the mass is over before you take pictures of the church’s cracks and crevices.
Of course, mind your belongings. You may be in church, but that does not mean you can let your guard down. Always be vigilant and remember to check if there are valuables left behind.
