Manila Cathedral (after 2 years)

The Manila Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica informally known as Manila Cathedral,  is a Roman Catholic basilica located in Manila, Philippines, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary as Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

The altar of Manila Cathedral

The cathedral was damaged and destroyed several times since the original structure was built in 1581 while the eighth and current instance of the cathedral was completed in 1958.

It was again renovated and had a lot of repairs started February 2011. Major renovations are done last 2012 in which the Cathedral were closed to general public for 2 years. It was reopened last April 2014.

Saint Peter's image inside Manila Cathedral

This can be seen near the entrance of the church

Pieta

A gallery of Popes can also be seen inside the church (right portion).
This is also because of Pope Francis' visit this year

"We consecrate to your immaculate heart and entrust to you (Mary) for safekeeping"

The statue located in front of Manila Cathedral

As a year starter, I celebrated the first Sunday mass at the Manila Cathedral because it is one of my favorite churches and it is very close to my heart. 

When I am still a resident of Manila, way back in my 2nd year high school days we used to attend vigils every first Friday of the month for I think 6-7 times. Wherein we will participate in a hourly or every 3 hours rosary and other activities included in the program. We are surrounded by Priest and Sacristan. Confessions are required to every participants and sleeping is extremely prohibited. 

Those activities made me love the church and every time I pay a visit I feel nostalgic.

I am trying my best to attend mass here at least once a year since it is now too far from where I am living.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manila_Cathedral