THE Archdiocese of Caceres has ordered the immediate closure of the Parish Church of San Francisco de Asis in Naga City after the tragic suicide of an individual last Sunday night within its premises.
In a statement, Caceres Archdiocese Chancellor Fr. Darius Romualdo announced the closure of the parish church as mandated by Canons 1211-1212 of the Code of Canon Law.
“The Parish Church of San Francisco de Asis will remain closed until July 2, 2025, to allow for a period of prayerful mourning and reparation. During this time, public liturgical celebrations will be suspended,” said Romualdo.
“The Rite of Reparation and Healing will be held on the evening of July 2, to restore the church’s sacred character and offer communal healing,” he added.
The closure order came after an individual took his own life at approximately 8:10 p.m. on June 29, within the premises of the parish church.
The Archdiocese immediately expressed “deep sorrow” over the tragedy and offered prayers and compassion to the bereaved family and all affected parishioners.
“In these moments of sorrow and uncertainty, the Church offers not judgment, but the hope of Christ’s mercy, who came to bind up the wounded and heal the broken-hearted,” said the priest.
