Baguio Cathedral Welcomes Korean-Language Worship Amid Rising Foreign Community
BAGUIO – Starting in November 2025, Korean Catholics in Baguio will be able to attend Mass in their native language as the diocese rolls out its new pastoral initiative.
The Diocese of Baguio has introduced regular Korean-language Masses to cater to the city’s growing Korean Catholic population. This pastoral effort is intended to nurture the faith and strengthen the sense of community among Korean residents, many of whom consider Baguio their home away from home.
In a circular released on October 20, Bishop Rafael Cruz extended an invitation to all Korean Catholics in the diocese to join Masses celebrated in their native language. Beginning November 2025, the Korean-language Mass will take place every Saturday at 5 p.m. at the Holy Face Chapel inside Baguio Cathedral.
To provide proper spiritual guidance, Korean priests have been designated to officiate the Masses and administer sacraments and sacramentals. Bishop Cruz also encouraged parishioners to coordinate with the cathedral office or directly with the Korean clergy for special occasions, such as Holy Days of Obligation and major feast days.
“For fellowship purposes, a room at the Sangkabalayan building will be provided for your gatherings, either before or after the Mass,” Bishop Cruz said in his message. He expressed hope that the initiative would offer “spiritual nourishment and strength” to Korean Catholics throughout their stay in the city.
The move highlights the diocese’s dedication to embracing diversity within the local Church and its ongoing mission to serve all members of its faith community. With the rising number of Korean residents, the Church aims to make them feel welcomed and spiritually connected through worship in their own language.
According to an October 21 report by The Seoul Times, an estimated 10,000 Koreans currently reside in Baguio. Around 90 percent are students studying English, while the remaining residents are missionaries or professionals.
By introducing these dedicated services, the Diocese of Baguio reinforces its role as an inclusive spiritual home—one that reaches across cultures and languages to ensure every believer has a place to worship, connect, and grow in faith.
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