The Roblox Filipino Catholics (RFC) community places its religious imprint on the interactive virtual platform, simulating ceremonies and faith-centric celebrations such as the Traslacion (Feast of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno). In line with the 459th celebration of the Fiesta Señor, the 4,000+ member movement—consisting of “students, altar servers, members of parish ministries, and members of worship groups,” recently transported the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu (BMSN) on the gaming website.
Facebook: Roblox Filipino Catholics
RFC’s reinvention of the BMSN features the 1565-founded landmark’s historical architecture, dressed in the red-yellow threads of the religious image, supplemented through a festive atmosphere. According to the community’s Facebook page, the institution virtually holds Novena masses leading to the third Sunday of January, as current and future users may immerse themselves in the online community through the RFC’s official Roblox group and Discord server.
Established in 2019, the RFC commenced its formal practices a year later, noting the isolation protocols brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. As on-site celebrations slowly normalized, RFC lead administrator and director for external affairs, David John Torres, told Rappler of the initiative’s acceptance by the religious body, continuing activities, and “holding religious activities upon the request of bishops.”
19-year-old Lorence Canono, RFC’s lead developer for the Roblox adaptation of the BMSN, looked to the construction to bridge the gap with those who wish to experience the festivities but fail to attend the in-person celebration.
“I can see the joy it brings when people are devoting themselves to Santo Niño,” Canono mentioned.
