The day after the birthday of the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the brethren in the Local Congregation of Alabang, Ecclesiastical District of Metro Manila South, Philippines, also commemorated a significant day. The Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members of this 96-year-old local congregation welcomed Brother Eduardo Manalo on his much-anticipated pastoral visit. After 12 fruitful years since his previous visit, the beloved Executive Minister returned to Alabang to officiate at a solemn gathering and the ordination of 35 new ministers. The event brought immense joy and spiritual rejuvenation to the congregation, where generations of families have nurtured and strengthened their faith in God.

Brother Eduardo Manalo preached his biblical homily by comparing the journey of the Church members to that of an athlete running a race—they ought to give their all to reach the finish line and claim the prize. Similarly, the Executive Minister emphasized from the Bible that the Church members must strive with determination and strength to attain salvation. He reminded them to never fear and to not be overcome by difficulties. Instead, they must turn to God in prayer and trust in His guidance. However, it was also highlighted that prayer alone is not enough; it must be coupled with obedience to God’s commands and unwavering faith, believing wholeheartedly that God will fulfill His promises.

It was also mentioned in the Bible-based homily that the dangerous times in the last days will bring great stress, which Brother Jomar Andres, a secretariat, Children’s Worship Service (CWS), and Technical Support for Videostreaming (TSV) officer, could deeply relate to. “I’ve experienced a series of trials but, in the worship service, it was also taught that those who pray to God with true faith will be rewarded by Him. The Church Administration always reminds us that, whether in happy or sad situations, we should never lose hope and faith in God. He knows our struggles and is simply waiting for us to turn to Him. I hold on firmly to God’s promises, so that I can move forward in life and, most importantly, continue serving Him.”

The Executive Minister also emphasized in his biblical preaching that if one’s request aligns with God’s will, he should not hesitate to pray. Through faith, true servants of God can receive what they ask from Him, even in hopeless situations.

After Brother Eduardo Manalo delivered his homily, Brother Arnel A. Tumanan led the congregational prayer, followed by the solemn oath-taking of 35 new ministers led by Brother Bienvenido C. Santiago. These took place before the laying on of hands by the Executive Minister. Witnessing the would-be ministers as they took oath, the brethren were reminded that uniting with the Church Administration is not solely the ministers’ responsibility but a shared duty among all, inspiring one another through faith and dedication.

By Czarina Umbal-Mendoza