HOPE IS A good thing. It is natural for many people to seek something to hope for during trying times. Their wealth, relationships, or career accomplishments often serve as their primary sources of hope. These, however, are fragile and fleeting. Thus, especially when circumstances worsen, a deeper and more enduring hope becomes essential.

For members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ), their hope is not rooted in the world, but in the certainty of the promised salvation on the Day of Judgment. This conviction among the brethren was further strengthened and inspired by the biblical sermon of Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Executive Minister, during the dedication of the house of worship of the Local Congregation of Mindanao Avenue, Ecclesiastical District of Central. In this sacred gathering, 36 ministerial workers received the laying on of hands by the Executive Minister, thereby becoming ministers of the gospel in the Church.

This local congregation was originally part of that whose house of worship is located along Catleya Street, Barangay Bahay Toro, Quezon City. After the dedication of the 854-seater house of worship located along Mindanao Avenue on September 20, 2025, the original congregation in Barangay Bahay Toro was reverted to its former name, the Local Congregation of Pag-asa. This milestone serves as another testament to God’s continuous blessings upon His nation.

Brother Eduardo Manalo reminded the brethren that God is the One Who makes His servants steadfast in the faith. Despite the many and often extraordinary trials that each one may face in life, one truth remains evident—there has never been a time when a true servant of God ended up ultimately defeated or without hope. This is because His promises are true. The Executive Minister encouraged everyone to firmly hold on to these promises, for no matter how severe life’s challenges may be, God will never forsake His people.

The opening prayer for the worship service was led by Brother Diosdado F. Dades, the supervising minister of the Ecclesiastical District of Central. Brother Rene J. Panoncillo led the prayer for the dedication of the house of worship, together with selected ministers in the district. Brother Romer D. Galang led the prayer after the Executive Minister’s Bible-based sermon. Brother Arnel R. Canicosa led the prayer after the laying on of hands by the Executive Minister. The prayer for voluntary offerings was led by Brother Glicerio P. Santos IV, and Brother Angelo Erano V. Manalo, the Church’s Deputy Executive Minister, said the benediction.