The St. John Bosco Chapel in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, a remarkable milestone for architect Ned Carlos’s visionary design. For two decades, this towering 24-meter structure has served as a beacon, consistently bringing “heaven to earth” for countless worshippers.
The chapel’s immense height and octagonal form have commanded reverence since its consecration. Its unique 45-degree angled axis and interior layout, with nave and aisles radiating from a central cross, have always guided the eye and spirit towards the divine.
Carlos’ most striking feature, the Mount Sinai-inspired skylight, has for 20 years bathed the altar and cross in pure, white light. This ingenious design creates an ethereal glow, highlighting the sacred focal points and symbolizing “a glimmer of glory coming from the highest heaven.”
The interior’s red-wine color and red-and-white terrazzo altar have consistently symbolized the Blood of Christ, enriching the spiritual experience. Beyond aesthetics, Carlos’s foresight in prioritizing comfort has endured: natural ventilation through concealed windows and perforations, along with an air-conditioned confessional, continues to ensure a welcoming environment for reflection and prayer.
The St. John Bosco Chapel remains a powerful and enduring testament to architecture’s ability to elevate the human spirit, offering a tangible sense of heaven in Dumaguete for the past two decades.*
