The first church of Pakil, built in 1676, was made of light materials like nipa and bamboo and placed under the patronage of Saint Peter of Alcantara. The Franciscan Friars, who were particularly devoted to this saint, chose him because their first missionaries to the Philippines were members of the Alcanterine reform of the Franciscan Order. In 1684, Governor-General Gabriel Curuzalegui authorized the collection of a tribute to fund the construction of a stone church. The first stone church was completed in 1732 but was destroyed by fire in 1739. It was reconstructed and finished in 1767, with a tower added in 1777.

In 1788, the miraculous portrait of Our Lady of Sorrows of Turumba was discovered in Laguna de Bay, sparking widespread devotion. According to tradition, no layperson could lift the image after it was placed down by fishermen. However, the parish priest was able to lift it, and this miraculous event led the people to celebrate with songs and dances, calling out "Tuturumba." This event gave rise to the town's annual Turumba Festival, which continues to honor the miraculous image.

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