Manila: The Archdiocese of Cebu has ordered the temporary closure of the Parish Church of San Fernando Rey in Liloan, Cebu, following a crime committed within its walls on Friday. Archbishop Alberto Uy announced the closure on Saturday after authorities began investigating an incident that desecrated the sacred space.

According to Philippines News Agency, an unidentified woman was found dead inside the church, having sustained head injuries indicative of a violent assault. CCTV footage confirmed that the attack occurred within the church, leading to a declaration that the site had been desecrated. Archbishop Uy emphasized the profound scandal and pain this act of violence has caused among the faithful of Liloan and beyond.

‘After a preliminary review of the incident and the available evidence, including CCTV footage confirming that the assault took place inside the church itself, it is judged that the sacred place has indeed been desecrated through an act of grave violence,’ Uy stated. He cited Canon 1210 of the Code of Canon Law, underscoring that only activities promoting worship, piety, and religion are permitted in a sacred place. As a result, he decreed the church’s temporary closure.

The Code of Canon Law articulates that a sacred place is considered desecrated when it suffers grave injury through acts deemed seriously disrespectful. The church will remain closed until the desecration is addressed through a penitential rite. Archbishop Uy indicated that he would work with parish clergy and the Chancery to determine the appropriate rite of reparation, after which worship may resume.

Archbishop Uy expressed his condolences to the victim’s family and urged the community to respond with prayer and compassion rather than anger. He called upon the faithful to reaffirm their respect for human dignity and the sanctity of sacred spaces meant for refuge and healing.