Holy Week in Davao City offers more than solemn rituals, it’s also an opportunity to explore the city’s rich tapestry of faith and history. The tradition of Visita Iglesia, visiting seven churches on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday, provides an opportunity for both spiritual reflection and cultural appreciation.
Here’s a curated list of significant churches in Davao City to add to your list of churches to visit this Holy Week.
Redemptorist Church (Our Mother of Perpetual Help Parish)
Established in the early 1970s, the Redemptorist Church began as a mission initiative by the Redemptorist Fathers. The foundation for the new church was laid in 1980 and was blessed and consecrated a year later. The Redemptorist Church is always packed during the Lenten season because of all the meaningful activities organized by the parish.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Davao/ Facebook
Location: J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao City
Check their official Facebook page for updated Mass schedules.
Sacred Heart Parish
Founded in 1967, Sacred Heart Parish serves a diverse community of faithful in Barrio Obrero. The parish has been a cornerstone for various ethnic groups, fostering a strong sense of community and devotion. Sacred Heart Parish is right next to Stella Maris Academy of Davao. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for quiet reflection, especially on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.
Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish Davao/ Facebook
Location: N. Torres Street, Barrio Obrero, Davao City
Check their official Facebook page for updated Mass schedules.
Sta. Ana Shrine Parish
The cornerstone of Sta. Ana Shrine Parish was laid on January 6, 1949. The church was consecrated on April 16, 1949, and has since been a significant religious site in Davao. Sta. Ana is located near schools and malls and is one of the busiest churches in the city.
Santa Ana Church Davao/ Facebook
Location: Sta. Ana Avenue, Davao City
Check their official Facebook page for updated Mass schedules.
San Pedro Cathedral
Established in 1847, San Pedro Cathedral is the oldest church in Davao City and serves as the ecclesiastical seat of the Archdiocese of Davao. It has undergone several renovations, with the current structure reflecting a mix of modern and traditional architectural styles.
The San Pedro Cathedral is quite accessible since it’s within the city center. After getting mass, patrons sometimes light up candles and buy assorted kakanin.
San Pedro Cathedral Davao/ Facebook
Location: San Pedro Street, Poblacion District, Davao City
Check their official Facebook page for updated Mass schedules.
Our Lady of the Assumption Parish
The Assumption Parish was established in 1959, with the Redemptorist Fathers playing a significant role in its development. The church has been a spiritual haven for the community for decades.
Located in Torres St., the parish has a very active schedule during the Lenten season from confession, to penitential rite, celebration of the Lord’s supper and washing of the feet, way of the cross, down to a salubong on Easter Sunday.
Assumption Parish Davao/ Facebook
Location: F. Torres Street, Davao City
Check their official Facebook page for updated Mass schedules.
St. Francis of Assisi Parish
St. Francis of Assisi Parish is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, a well-loved Italian saint among Catholics widely known for his humility, kindness, and great love for animals. This is the only church in Davao that features a garden altar. The parish serves the faithful in the Ma-a area and continues to grow in its mission.
St. Francis of Assisi Parish Davao/ Facebook
Location: Ma-a Road, Davao City
Check their official Facebook page for updated Mass schedules.
San Pablo Parish – Juna Subdivision
San Pablo Parish was established in the early 1980s, with its cornerstone blessed by Pope John Paul II during his visit to Davao on February 20, 1980. The parish has since been a vibrant community for worship and service.
San Pablo Church’s altar aims to show the Catholic’s instruction of faith with four objects: the altar of the Eucharist, the ambo, the tabernacle, and the crucifix.
San Pablo Parish Davao/ Facebook
Location: Juna Subdivision, Matina, Davao City
Check their official Facebook page for updated Mass schedules.
Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague – Matina
Established in 1968, the shrine has been a place of pilgrimage and devotion for over five decades. It offers a serene environment for prayer and reflection, attracting devotees from various regions.
The Sto. Niño shrine came to be through the devotion made by the Santos Family in 1968. They built it on their own property. “Shrine” as the locals call it, is known to be the go-to spot for the Lenten season’s Way of the Cross.
Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague Parish/ Facebook
Location: Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao City
Check their official Facebook page for updated Mass schedules.
Bonus: How to Complete All 8 Churches in One Day
Start early! Aim to begin around 7:00 AM when the roads are still quiet and the air is cool.
Plan your route well. Begin in Bajada and make your way to Obrero, Sta. Ana, the city center, and Torres. After lunch, continue toward Ma-a, Juna, and finally, Matina for a peaceful sunset reflection.
Use Google Maps! Make things easier on your end by mapping out your journey on Google Maps to see the best way to navigate around Davao.
Pack the essentials. Bring water, a fan, and your rosary. If you’re the reflective type, consider jotting down notes or recording voice memos throughout the journey.
Take breaks. Avoid walking or driving during peak midday heat from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. That’s the perfect window for a light Lenten meal or a short breather.
Which churches are you visiting for Visita Iglesia? Let us know in the comments!
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