The San Fernando Rey Church in Liloan, Cebu was temporarily closed after a woman was found dead inside on Friday morning. According to police, the victim was seen entering the church with a man before witnesses heard shouting and commotion.
Church officials confirmed that the woman was raped and murdered inside the church. As a result, the Archdiocese of Cebu declared that the sanctity of the place was defiled due to the violent incident that caused fear and sadness among the faithful.
According to Archbishop Albert Uy, all masses and public prayers are canceled for now while the proper process according to Canon Law is carried out. A special ritual must be performed to restore the sanctity of the church before it can reopen.
Archbishop Uy also said that devotees are encouraged to pray and stand in solidarity with the victim's family, instead of giving in to anger. He added that it is important to pray for peace and justice for the tragedy that occurred.
The local church and priests will perform a penitential rite to restore the church's dignity as a house of prayer and peace.
