Baguio Launches Korean Mass for Growing Community
BAGUIO – The Diocese of Baguio is reaching out to its growing Korean Catholic community by launching regular Masses celebrated in the Korean language.
The Diocese of Baguio has announced the start of regular Korean-language Masses to serve the city’s expanding Korean Catholic community. This initiative aims to strengthen the spiritual life and sense of belonging among Korean residents, many of whom have made Baguio their second home.
In a circular dated October 20, Bishop Rafael Cruz invited all Korean Catholics within the diocese to attend liturgical celebrations conducted in their native tongue. Beginning in November 2025, the Korean-language Mass will be held every Saturday at 5 p.m. at the Holy Face Chapel of Baguio Cathedral.
To ensure the faithful receive proper pastoral care, Bishop Cruz confirmed that Korean priests have been appointed to celebrate the Mass and administer sacraments and sacramentals. He also encouraged coordination with the cathedral office or directly with the Korean clergy for special liturgical events such as Holy Days of Obligation and solemnities.
“For fellowship purposes, a room at the Sangkabalayan building will be provided for your gatherings, either before or after the Mass,” the bishop stated in his letter. He expressed hope that this new arrangement would bring “spiritual nourishment and strength” to the Korean Catholic community during their stay in the city.
The initiative underscores the diocese’s commitment to cultural inclusivity and its recognition of Baguio’s diverse faith community. With thousands of Koreans now residing in the city, the Church seeks to make them feel welcomed and spiritually supported in their own language.
According to a report from The Seoul Times on October 21, around 10,000 Koreans currently live in Baguio. Approximately 90 percent are students enrolled in English language programs, while the rest are missionaries or adult residents.
By establishing this dedicated Mass, the Baguio Diocese not only fosters unity within its multicultural flock but also affirms its mission of reaching out to all faithful—regardless of nationality or language—to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to worship and grow in faith.
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