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Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members from the Local Congregation of Chiba, Ecclesiastical District of Tokyo, Japan recently commemorated the 30th anniversary of their congregation’s establishment.
For this they conducted on February 27, 2026 a celebratory program led by Brothers Amante Rodriguez and Kristoffer Reniel Gonzales, the district minister and the assistant district minister, respectively. The latter delivered the opening remarks.
Held at the multi-purpose hall of Ichihara Children’s Future Center (We Hall) in Chiba, Japan, the program featured musical performances and video presentations, among others.
Through audio and video presentations, the history of the local congregation was presented with clips of interviews from pioneering brethren and Church officers.
Select members of the Christian Family Organizations rendered INC original music, such as Ating Itaguyod Ang Paglilingkod Sa Ama (Let Us Uphold Our Services To The Father), Shinkou No Tame Ni Tatakae (Fight for our Faith), and the finale Anuman Po Ang Mangyari (Come What May).
“This celebration emphasized our local history, showcasing the journey of the brethren and about musical performances. Prepared through God’s mercy, this event aims to fortify our faith and inspire dedicated service for God’s glory,” shared resident minister Brother Isidro Mosquera Jr. “The congregation’s history was filled with challenges, yet through the guidance of the Church Administration and Christ’s help, the brethren triumphed for three decades.
Church officers prepared a short film titled Hakbang (Step), which encourages the brethren to move forward having strong faith despite the many hindrances they are experiencing.
“When I arrived here in Chiba, the congregation was a small group of about 30 brethren, our place of worship was under a bridge, and others were traveling hours to attend worship services,” recalled finance officer Tracy Sugimura. “Through prayer and perseverance, God has guided us in the congregation—adding many Church officers, helping us to beautify our place of worship, and giving us spiritual blessings. I’m deeply grateful to God for helping this congregation reach its 30 years; I’ll remain committed to continue serving Him.”
The district minister delivered a succinct and uplifting speech to close the program.
“Reaching 30 years in a wealthy nation hasn’t been easy. For, despite the country’s prosperity, the brethren faced personal struggles, loneliness, and hardships,” Brother Rodriguez said in an interview later. “With God’s power and the Administration’s guidance, specifically Brother Eduardo V. Manalo’s teaching of the biblical commandment on fervent prayer, they overcame these trials by holding fast to God’s promises.” — With assistance from Ed Ryan Santiago and Seiko Sasaki
