A Filipino Notre Dame

Introduction
The first time I stepped into San Sebastian, I felt no special connection towards it. I only recall mama pointing out its special beauty. This comment, not empirical observation, created a subconscious regard that this church equaled beauty.
When I reached second year high school, I developed a deeper love for the Catholic faith, and with it came a reverential regard for Churches. It was at this time that my regard for San Sebastian’s beauty moved beyond architecture into personal attachment. It became part of me because it was an expression of what was most important to me: my faith. This personal attachment drew me to visit this church with more attention and reflection.

The Gothic Ceilings and Stone Walls
The high ceilings and cold, as if air-conditioned, interior are primarily the two aspects that made an impact on me. This is possibly because it is how the body feels that strikes a human person first. The high arched ceilings were produced i...