Envoys Amelia “Mellie” Ablaza and her husband Luis Jr. pose for a Facebook post in their living room in front of a curved glass table, atop which a monstrance solemnly stands.
A vessel for the Eucharistic host, the monstrance is traditionally seen only on special church occasions. This one—made of silver, with exquisite rays—was used in religious processions. The Ablazas’ designer son, Luis Romero Ablaza III—Junjun to friends—has proudly made it a statement piece alongside intricately carved silver candlesticks.
The Ablaza collection of religious art is impressive for its size. It has taken three homes to display the pieces, and many are still in storage. The …
Keep on reading: Three homes for one religious art collection