The Shrine of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus in Pasay City is working toward seeking recognition as a minor basilica.
According to CBCP News, the plan was shared by Bishop Oscar Jaime Florencio of the Military Ordinariate of the Philippines on Thursday, October 1, 2026, during the celebration of the shrine’s feast day Mass.
The Mass was presided over by Manila Cardinal Jose Advincula.
Shrine Rector Msgr. Gilbert Sones is leading efforts to form committees, consult with other minor basilicas, and conduct liturgical formation in preparation for the application.
Florencio added that seeking the endorsement of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is part of the process before submitting a formal petition to the Vatican.
The title of “minor basilica” is bestowed by the Vatican on churches that hold particular historical and spiritual significance.
Advincula said that the possible elevation of the shrine to a minor basilica would be fitting, given how St. Thérèse’s spirituality calls Christians to seek holiness through ordinary acts done with extraordinary love.
In his homily, the Manila cardinal encouraged the faithful to embrace St. Thérèse’s “Little Way” of humility, trust, and love, emphasizing that holiness is not based on worldly success.
He reminded the faithful: “This is the paradox of Christian holiness: to become holy, one must not strive to become great but to become little.”
Photo by Mio Angelo Hermoso / RCAM Media | Photogallery
