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The Local Congregation of Rochester, New York in the Ecclesiastical District of New York marked its silver anniversary on March 22, 2026 through a special worship service, followed by a musical presentation.
These were meant to show their gratefulness and appreciation to the Lord God’s bountiful blessings to their congregation and to their spiritual lives through all these years. Their active involvement in these events also signified their reaffirmation of their commitment to the fervent service of the Lord in unity with the Church and its Administration.
Brother Edward Maranan, the US East Office supervisor, officiated at the special worship service. During the study of God’s words, he encouraged the congregants to remain steadfast in their calling and devoted to the worship and service of God no matter what, since He never fails to fulfill His promises to His faithful people.
After the worship service, the brethren proceeded to the function hall for the anniversary program. After a short video on the congregation’s history, Brother Sheridohn Santos, district supervising minister, delivered a brief but inspiring speech, thanking the Lord God and the Lord Jesus Christ for their favors and unfailing love through the Church Administration. Brother Santos also commended the brethren for their unity and ardent service to God.
Then, resident minister Brother Edwin Moreno led the opening prayer, after which talented brethren rendered musical performances featuring Iglesia Ni Cristo original music.
The congregation’s pioneering members were honored with tokens of appreciation to recognize their spiritual zeal through the years even amid many challenges.
“I am truly grateful to the Lord God for His love and guidance to our congregation through the years,” said Boy Natividad, one of the pioneering members of the Rochester Congregation. “The humble beginnings of our congregation are still clear to me … A quarter century has passed, and God’s protection and blessings remain evident among us.”
The program concluded with a closing prayer by Brother Neil Patrick Omelda, assistant district supervising minister.
“It’s a meaningful celebration of our congregation’s anniversary,” enthused head deacon Waren Castillo. Uplifted, he added, “I will continue doing what pleases the Lord God.”
“Reaching 25 years has not been easy. However, through the Lord God’s guidance and the leadership of the Church Administration, our congregation has continued to progress in all Church endeavors, especially in the work of propagation. Through the brethren’s unwavering efforts in sharing the gospel, a Buffalo Extension was established to accommodate the growing number of members and to make attending worship services more accessible,” said Brother Moreno.
“On behalf of the brethren and Church officers, we promise to continue upholding our divine election, faithfully serving the Lord God, and remaining united with the Church Administration so that we may receive the everlasting life He has promised at Christ’s return,” the resident minister added.
