District of Orange County holds series of activities for FYM 139th

In his homily during the baptismal gathering, Brother de Dios reiterated to the would-be members the importance of receiving baptism in the one and only true Church Of Christ to have the sure hope of receiving salvation on Judgment Day.

Afterwards, district Light Of Salvation overseer Brother Armado Mañalac led the would-be members’ taking oath of membership. Their actual baptism—immersion into the water—was administered by Long Beach Congregation’s resident minister Brother Joel Cubangbang. The baptism was followed by a “Welcome, My Brethren” program, to warmly receive the newly baptized brethren and encourage them to participate in the activities of the Christian Family Organizations (CFO) in their respective local congregations.

Also led by Brother de Dios, the evangelical mission that followed was attended by a total of 300 guests. He emphasized the value of joining the true Church to be included among those whom God recognizes as His children who are rightful of entering His heavenly abode come Judgment Day.

“This world nears its end. I hope to be included among those who will be brought to God’s kingdom,” said guest Bertha Estrada in an interview after the evangelical mission. She was invited by her co-worker Emily Buentipo from the Local Congregation of Moreno Valley who said, “It’s important to share the true faith. Showing my love and care for my fellowmen is best manifested by sharing with them my faith. I also want them to have the blessing of salvation.”

A Care For Humanity event happened next. The beneficiaries were treated to a live performance of selected brethren singing Iglesia Ni Cristo original music, catered foods, and care packages, which contained vitamins and canned goods, among others. “It’s a blessing that the Church has been able to provide care packages, showing their care to people,” said guest and recipient Precilla Martinez.

Capping the day was the History Fair. The exhibit displayed the district’s and local congregations’ various activities, milestones, among other accomplishments. “It’s important to invite people to these activities for them to see the Church’s efforts for those who are in need. Most especially, we hope to cater them spiritually by encouraging them to listen to the teachings upheld inside the Church,” said Brother de Dios.

Day 2

The brethren’s zeal continued the next day, May 26, when they gathered for an Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) Unity Games that was held at the football field of Walnut High School in Southern California. It started with a parade of colors, after which they engaged in a friendly competition of track-and-field, chess, darts, and speed stacking.

As soon as the games ended, winners received applause and medals. The Local Congregation of San Gabriel Valley was declared overall champion as its players got the most number of medals.

“It’s nice to see brethren competing in a friendly way. For me, this activity was a memorable one, having bonded with them and my loved ones,” said KADIWA district sports committee officer Jon de Jesus from San Gabriel Valley Congregation.

“My daughter Evelyn participated at the 50-yard-dash in the Children’s Worship Service (CWS) category,” said Jon Reynoso from the Local Congregation of Lakewood. “Seeing her smile makes me feel happy and proud as well. What a great experience meeting and bonding with brethren from various congregations,” he added.

“What’s nice with the INC Unity Games is that, although the brethren must showcase their talents and skills in various fields of games competitively, but their love of the brotherhood is what takes precedence,” attested Brother de Dios. — With reports from Janice Muldong and Donna Gemeniano of INC News Section