ALTHOUGH PASAY CITY is the third smallest city in the National Capital Region of the Philippines, a significant portion of its land is dedicated to essential infrastructures, entertainment complexes, and cultural landmarks. It is also home to the country’s busiest airport, serving as the main international gateway to the archipelago.

Reflecting the city’s diverse community, the magnificent Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) house of worship of the Local Congregation of Pasay, Ecclesiastical District of Makati, is also situated here. This 2,300-seater edifice, which underwent renovation in 2013, was originally built seven decades ago and was dedicated to God on November 30, 1955 in a worship service led by Brother Felix Y. Manalo, God’s Messenger in these last days.

Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Executive Minister, conducted a pastoral visit to the congregation. In his homily, he emphasized that now, more than ever, the brethren are expected to be even more steadfast in their faith as the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ is fast approaching. Brother Eduardo Manalo urged them to hold on firmly to their divine election until the end, so that no one can take away their hope for salvation. He also encouraged the congregants to continually assess their faith and ensure they are living as committed servants of God.

“As a youth exposed to the challenges of this world, it is crucial to uphold my faith by following the will of our Almighty God, as taught by the Church Administration. This world presents many negative influences, but by remaining obedient to God’s teachings, we can avoid being swayed by these worldly thoughts,” said Sister Precious Kim Perez, a secretariat and Children’s Worship Service (CWS) officer. Despite being in her first week of school in college with three classes to attend that day, she prioritized attending the worship service and fulfilling her God-given duties.

She further revealed, “I have often faced situations where I had to deny myself in favor of my duties, and I never waver. When I pray to God, I always promise to prioritize fulfilling my duty, even if it means facing difficult choices between my duties and my studies.”

Sister Precious’s firm conviction is rooted in her long-standing role as a Church officer since childhood. Her mother significantly influenced her faith and devotion to the Church. Even with a busy academic schedule and Church responsibilities, she consistently participates in activities spearheaded by the Christian Family Organizations (CFO). She explained, “These activities allow me to connect with my fellow youth brethren, keeping me grounded and united with the Church Administration. The CFO activities also help strengthen my faith in God.”     

Meanwhile, for Sister Kristy Mae Pillado, who was born with atopic dermatitis, a skin condition she often describes as a “soil in drought,” questioning God has never been an option. Instead, her condition has drawn her closer to Him and strengthened her trust in His plans for her. She believes that as long as she prioritizes her duties as a choir member and secretariat officer and places God above all else, “He will never abandon me and will always be beside me through all my battles,” she said.

Over the past 42 years, she has faced both good days and severe flare-ups. “It had a significant impact on my life,” Sister Kristy shared. “It affected me physically and mentally. When I was still studying, I was bullied because of my rashes and wounds. Sometimes, I had to go to school with gauze to cover them, and I couldn’t explain that it wasn’t contagious. I grew up with low self-esteem and was very self-conscious about my appearance.” Despite these challenges, she remained steadfast. Even during severe flare-ups, she would continue to perform as a choir member in the CWS, never letting her condition stop her from giving thanks and praise to God.

Another test of her faith occurred in May 2021, on her birthday. “I vividly remember that day. I ended up in the emergency room with high blood pressure and an increased heart rate. Despite receiving two different IV [intravenous] medications to lower my blood pressure, it remained dangerously high. My left side went numb, and I was experiencing a stroke.” Sister Kristy prayed fervently, asking God for help and promising to continue serving Him. “I begged God to help me, to continue to give me life and strength,” she shared.

Though she could have died or been paralyzed, God’s love and mercy allowed her to continue fulfilling her sacred duties in the Church. “I can still share stories of how I overcame obstacles and dealt with life’s struggles, knowing I was never alone because God has always been there for me,” she reflected.

As a member of the Church, Sister Kristy feels blessed whenever she is inside the house of worship where she can praise and worship the Lord. “It’s where I receive God’s words that inspire me on my journey. It’s also where I can pray and seek His help in times of trouble. I find great comfort in these privileges of being in His fold,” she explained.

Brother Diosdado F. Dades led the opening prayer before the preaching of the Executive Minister. The closing prayer was led by Brother Romer D. Galang while Brother Ernesto V. Suratos led the prayer for the voluntary offerings. Brother Bienvenido C. Santiago said the benediction.

By Rikarose Leones