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The Church of the Gesu is a landmark church of the Ateneo de Manila University campus in the Philippines. Designed by Jose Pedro Recio and Carmelo Casas, the edifices massive triangular structure symbolizes the Holy Trinity. The site has a total area of 10,200 square meters, and a seating capacity of 1000 persons.
There are also two chapels alongside the church, one for the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and another dedicated to the Blessed Virgin.
In front of the church is the Sacred Heart statue, a statue of Jesus with welcoming outstretched arms. At the base of the statue is an inscription from Matthew 11:28: "Come to me all of you who are burdened, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and gentle of heart, thus you will find refreshment for your souls. My yoke is sweet and my burden light"
History
When Ateneo de Manila University transferred to Loyola Heights in 1949, Fr. William Masterson envisioned the construction of a gymnasium and a church on the campus. However, only the Blue Eagle Gym was built at the time.
It was not until more than 50 years later that construction of the church began. On September 30, 2001 the cornerstone of the church was blessed and laid. The church held its dedication liturgy on July 31, 2002, which was attended by several distinguished guests including former Philippine president Corazon Aquino.
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