History of Meycauayan

 

Historical Site in Meycauayan, Bulacan

Meycauayan Church also known as St. Francis of Asisi Paris Church

The parish was established in 1578 by Fr. Juan de Plasencia and Fr. Diego de Oropeza, who were among the first Franciscan priests to arrive in the Philippines in 1577. They constructed a modest church using nipa thatch and bamboo in an area known as Sitio Torril, which is now a part of Brgy. Bahay Pare in Meycauayan. Unfortunately, a typhoon destroyed the church in 1588.Meycauayan Church, or the Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Church, is a Roman Catholic church located in Meycauayan, Bulacan Province.

 The Church was founded in 1578 and is one of the oldest parishes in Bulacan, older than the Malolos Cathedral, established in 1580, and the Barasoain Church, established in 1859.Upon their arrival in Meycauayan, the Franciscan priests also brought with them a wooden missionary cross, reminiscent of Magellan's Cross. Eventually, the cross came into the possession of a resident in Brgy. Bahay Pare. Today, this cross, known as The Cross of Sitio Torril, holds the distinction of being the oldest recognized religious relic in Meycauayan.

During the period of Spanish colonization, Meycauayan was referred to as Mecabayan. In 1591, it held the status of an encomienda, which was a formal system of compulsory labor in Spanish colonies. Under this system, leaders of the indigenous community were required to provide tribute to the colonizers in the form of food, cloth, minerals, or laborers.

The history of the Meycauayan Church, also known as the Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Church, provides valuable insights into the cultural heritage of this historical site. Delving into its origins sheds light on the early Spanish colonization era in the Philippines, the impact of Franciscan missionaries in spreading Christianity, and the architectural changes in religious buildings in the region. Exploring the church's past unveils the enduring faith and traditions of the local community, emphasizing the role of religious institutions in shaping the social fabric and identity of the people in Meycauayan, Bulacan.