Saturday, November 10, 2007 Jewel in the Crown of Philippine Faith By Ian Ocampo Flora
Amidst the busy town of Guagua, despite its rundown ways of commerce and advancement, is a jewel in the crown of Philippine faith.
Visiting Betis nowadays is much more interesting. There is now a greater move to preserve not just the church heritage but much more the various material culture of the town.
The inspiration came from the historic church which have withstood the ravages of time, wars, natural calamities and the most disastrous of all, domestic ransacking.
Ransacking is also known by another word "renovation" which had been initiated by the local folk or by priests themselves. The 1970's, 80's until the early 90's saw to the defamation of many of the old churches in Pampanga with many of them undergoing full or partial renovation.
The local stories about a priest spiriting away a 300 year old ivory head or antique altar candelabras are common among old towns. Betis nonetheless has its share of such stories.
The Church
Betis church, hailed as one of the best examples of Agustinian architecture, still stands today with a few alterations and renovations. It still bears much of its older grandeur and design.
A few kilometers away from the City of San Fernando, the place could be accessible by taking the old Bacolor-Guagua road. Built in the 15th century by the first Agustinian missionaries, it boasts of its elegantly carved reatablo accented with various Christian iconographies. Upon entering the church you would surely fall into a time warp.
The place is eerie at first and the whole place could deceive novice eyes. Plain pillars are suddenly transformed into marble Corinthian columns; the walls are accented with the portraits of saints. Trompe l'oeil technique was used to deceive eyes; one would actually believe that the walls are accented with marble linings, portraits and carvings.
But the truth is, it is just the effect of the paint on the walls ingeniously placed by a master painter's hand. The ceiling paintings are attributed to Simon Flores, a renowned painter during the Spanish times. The ceiling and other parts of the church were repainted by succeeding master painters following the original design. There is also an old well at the side of the church reputed to be the oldest existing in the region.
The church is an ideal place to get lost in quiet reflection. Marvel at its artistic grandeur or sit for long moments while starring at the light streaks passing through the rose windows.
Museum Gallery on the Foyer
The old refectory is now being transformed into a walk-in gallery. Ruston Banal, concept designer of the gallery said that the area was originally used as a storage facility.
Now, with the interest of the pastoral council and the parishioners, the gallery would be fully operational before the year is over. One can actually go on a walk-in tour of the church and the gallery.
Though not finished yet, the gallery already showcases attractions like panel boards of historical information on Betis and the church. Banal said that the gallery will also showcase specimens on the rich material culture of Betis.
Those willing to embark on a little soul searching may visit Betis church which is open to tourists and religious enthusiasts. So if you come to pass by Guagua make sure to pay a little visit, it would surely be a cathartic experience.
