Congregation, Extension, GWS: One of each added in New Zealand District
By RONNIE H. MUTYA
Date Posted: March 24, 2024
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As more people continue joining the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) in this island country in the southwestern part of the Pacific Ocean, an extension and a local congregation were recently established in South Island; and a group worship service (GWS) at North Island. The inaugural gatherings were all officiated at by Brother Dennis S. Dahunan, supervising minister of New Zealand District.
With these developments, the district leadership can better attend to the spiritual needs of the brethren in said places.
Fitzgerald Extension
On February 22, 2024, the inaugural worship of the Fitzgerald Extension was held at a rented hall in Deaf Society Hall, Fitzgerald Ave., Christchurch City Center in Christchurch. Its members are from Christchurch East Congregation.
Brother Arnel Del Rosario, resident minister, shared that the brethren “were very happy and excited when they heard about the establishment of Fitzgerald Extension because that means that the place of worship will be closer to them.”
Honored to be part of the historic event, Jennifer Calagos, head secretary, expressed, “I feel very happy to see the growth of the Church in our district. I’m thankful to our Lord Almighty God and to our beloved Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, for approving the Fitzgerald Extension.”
Bob Lawson, a pioneer member, felt blessed and described the gathering as “very good.” He further enthused, “It’s great to be a member of the Church.”
Kerikeri GWS
Two days after, February 24, the inaugural worship service for the Kerikeri GWS took place at the Cornerstone Whare Karakia o Manako, Kerikeri Rd in Kerikeri. Prior to its establishment, the brethren used to travel an hour and a half to reach the house of worship of the Whangārei Congregation to attend worship services.
Arren Bleu Calleja, organist, recounted how the brethren are inspired in fulfilling their duties to God: “The travel time was not a hinder for us that’s why I draw inspiration from a lot of the brethren’s steadfastness.”
On behalf of the brethren, Brother Demmie Garcia, resident minister, promised to “be more steadfast in the faith and continue serving God until the end.”
Dunedin Local Congregation
From being organized as a GWS, the brethren in Dunedin gained local congregation status. They conducted their inaugural worship service on March 7, 2024 at the Coronation Hall, Gordon Road in Mosgiel, Dunedin City.
“We are grateful to God because the brethren continue uniting with the Church Administration in serving God wholeheartedly,” attested Florencio Tiosing, head deacon. “The recent development is a manifestation of God’s love to us as Dunedin is now a full-fledged congregation.”
Giving utmost priority to worship services, Khaye Ramel, Children’s Worship Service (CWS) president, declared, “It’s the most important thing in my life because I’m able to call upon God and tell Him about my worries. And during the worship service, I feel the happiest and loved by our Lord God.”
Brother Eraño Roxas, resident minister, observed, “The brethren are so devoted in attending worship services because they firmly believe that they will receive the Holy Spirit that will strengthen their faith. This is the reason they never forsake such holy obligations to God no matter what.” — With reports from Roxanne Rosquita of INC News Section
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