The Manila Cathedral has again opened its “Blessed Souls Chapel” to the public ahead of this year’s Undas.
Fr. Reginald Malicdem, the cathedral’s rector, said people, especially those who can’t visit cemeteries personally, may visit the chapel to light candles and offer prayers for their departed loved ones.
He said Catholics may also reserve Mass intentions for the departed souls, which will be offered in all Masses at the cathedral on the first Sunday of November.
The chapel, which will be open until November 9, features a marble relief of Mary, Refuge of Sinners and a replica of Michelangelo’s Pietá.
The cathedral is open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cemeteries across the country are expected to be crowded on this year’s All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, November 1 and 2, as COVID-19 restrictions further ease.
The expected situation is different from the past two years as many cemeteries and columbaria were ordered closed to avoid crowds and stem the spread of coronavirus.
