...the human cross

UST sets Guinness world record for human cross

GMANews – Fri, Aug 12, 2011

A Philippine Catholic university has officially made history by setting a world record for the world’s largest human cross on Ash Wednesday, March 9.

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) said Guinness World Records recognized the 13,266 participants who formed the human cross inside the UST campus in Manila.

“Although [the] actual turnout of participants was close to 20,000, the official count only recognized those who swiped their IDs both when entering and going out of the field, as relayed during the instructions," UST said in an article on its website.

The article also showed photos of the cross and the Guinness certificate for the “largest human cross" achieved by 13,266 participants.

For its part, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines said the official Guinness certificate confirming the title was sent to UST on Aug. 10.

“We are pleased to confirm that you have successfully set the new Guinness World Records title for ‘Largest Human Cross.’ Guinness World Records congratulates you on your achievement," Guinness said in its letter dated Aug. 8, the CBCP said.

The CBCP said the official announcement is posted on the Guinness website under “Amazing Feats" and “Mass Participation" categories.

March’s human cross also aimed to convey to the world the university’s stand against the Reproductive Health bill.

In the March 9 event, students, faculty, and university employees dressed in black and white and with crosses on their foreheads formed a human cross and stood still in prayerful silence for 15 minutes.

“Norway previously held the record for the world’s largest human cross with 935 participants at the Oslo Opera House in May 2010," the CBCP said. — JE/VS, GMA News