Case Study 1: Where did the first Catholic Mass take place ing the Philippines

Summary

This presentation discusses the location of the first Catholic mass in the Philippines, traditionally believed to have taken place in Butuan for centuries. However, more recent scholarship has re-examined primary sources such as Francisco Albo's log and Antonio Pigafetta's accounts. The presenters delve into the details of these historical texts, analyzing routes, locations, and key events from Magellan’s expedition in 1521. Through historiographical analysis, they explore conflicting interpretations, highlighting the complexity of identifying the exact site of the first mass. The report concludes by discussing the broader context of European exploration during that period.

Takeaways

• 📍 The case study focuses on the first Catholic mass in the Philippines, traditionally believed to have taken place in Limasawa.
• ⛪ For three centuries, Limasawa has been regarded as the site of the first mass, commemorated by a monument near the Ozamis River.
• 📝 Two primary sources are referenced to determine the site of the first mass: Francisco Albo’s log and Antonio Pigafetta’s account.
• 🌍 Albo’s log does not explicitly mention the first mass but discusses the planting of a cross on a mountaintop in Limasawa.
• 📜 Pigafetta's account is more detailed, documenting the route of Magellan’s expedition and the events surrounding the first mass.
• 🗺 The expedition passed through several islands, including Zamal and Humon, before reaching Limasawa, where the first mass was held.
• ✝️ On March 31, 1521, Easter Sunday, the first Catholic mass was celebrated on the island of Limasawa by Magellan’s crew.
• 🔍 Historians have re-examined evidence, challenging earlier interpretations of the exact location of the first mass.
• ⛵ Magellan’s expedition faced challenges as they navigated the islands of the Philippines, interacting with local leaders and establishing treaties.
• 📚 The report provides a historiographical approach, analyzing both historical events and how they are interpreted by scholars.

Q & A

Where was the first Catholic mass in the Philippines believed to have taken place for centuries?

For three centuries, it was believed that the first Catholic mass in the Philippines took place in Butuan, with a monument erected in 1872 near the Agusan River to commemorate the event.

What was the shift in historical interpretation about the location of the first mass in the Philippines?

Toward the end of the 19th century and the start of the 20th century, a more nuanced reading of historical evidence emerged, challenging the earlier belief that Butuan was the location of the first mass. Scholars began to consider other interpretations, including the possibility of Limasawa Island being the actual site.

What are the two primary sources historians rely on to identify the site of the first Catholic mass in the Philippines?

Historians primarily rely on the logs kept by Francisco Albo and the more complete account by Antonio Pigafetta to identify the site of the first mass.

What important geographical detail did Francisco Albo's log mention that contributes to the debate about the location of the first mass?

Francisco Albo's log mentions the planting of a cross on a mountaintop from which three islands could be seen to the west and southwest, which aligns with the southern end of Limasawa Island. However, he does not mention the mass itself.

How does Antonio Pigafetta’s account contribute to understanding the location of the first mass?

Antonio Pigafetta's account provides a detailed description of Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition, including references to the island of Mazava (now often identified as Limasawa), where the first mass was celebrated on Easter Sunday, March 31, 1521.

What did Pigafetta record about the events of March 31, 1521?

Pigafetta recorded that on March 31, 1521, Easter Sunday, a Catholic mass was celebrated on the island of Mazava, with the local king and other chiefs in attendance. Later that day, a cross was planted on the highest hill of the island.

Why did Ferdinand Magellan name the archipelago 'St. Lazarus Islands'?

Magellan named the archipelago 'St. Lazarus Islands' because the day they sighted the islands was a Sunday during Lent, when the Gospel reading focused on the raising of Lazarus from the dead.

What was the significance of the exchange of gifts between Magellan and the local king?

The exchange of gifts between Magellan and the local king symbolized the establishment of friendly relations, which allowed Magellan’s crew to secure food supplies and continue their journey peacefully.

What happened to Magellan's expedition after the celebration of the first mass in the Philippines?

After the mass on Mazava, Magellan's expedition continued to explore other islands, eventually arriving in Cebu, where they entered into a peace pact with the local king. Magellan was later killed in the Battle of Mactan.

What was Spain's primary motivation during the Age of Exploration, and how did this lead to Magellan's expedition to the Philippines?

Spain’s primary motivation during the Age of Exploration was to find alternative sea routes to Asia to access the lucrative spice trade. This led to Magellan’s expedition, which eventually reached the Philippines and claimed the islands for Spain.