“I firmly believe that all of these things happening around us were already forewarned by God [as taught to us] through the biblical lessons prepared by the Church Administration,” Brother Richard Novilunio, one of the head deacons, said. Even during the pandemic, his entire household never ceased to participate in the activities launched by the Church Administration. “[These] keeps us busy at home during the quarantine period, and at the same time, [they are] an opportunity to continue fulfilling God’s commandments. We enjoy participating in the various Christian Family Organization (CFO) related activities to avoid being preoccupied with the effects of the pandemic,” he added.

Despite the pandemic, faithful Church members never lose heart. They find happiness in serving God and performing their duties. “Though struggling to make both ends meet, as a servant of God, our priority is to please Him. One of which is to set aside for our voluntary offerings to help in the many endeavors of the Church,” Brother Rex Salceda, a head deacon, said. Uncertain of what tomorrow brings, he will never give up on his faith in God. “God knows everything and what is best for us. If He allows us to experience all of these sufferings, I should all the more trust His plans because He promised that He will never forsake His children as long as we stay devoted to our services to Him,” Brother Rex shared.

The Executive Minister also emphasized that while physical training is important as it helps maintain good physical health, spiritual training, that is living according to God’s will is far more vital. Not only is it beneficial in the present life, but, most importantly, in the life to come. Brother Terrence, a head deacon, recalled the overlapping trials he needed to face with steadfastness: “Instead of feeling down and losing hope for having contracted the virus and at the same time unemployed, I braved them hoping everything will be fine with God’s mercy. We continue to conduct our household devotional prayers and worship services. In these trying times, it is only God who can help us survive and be triumphant.” Brother Terrence always reminds his household of the importance of worship services to God because it is one of the ways they prove their confidence in Him.

Brother Richard agrees that holding on to faith is the way to cope with grave situations. “Though many people are frightened and heavily burdened due to the crises, we, Church members should react to the situation in a positive way,” he said. As a Church officer, he is one with the Church Administration in strengthening the faithful. “The Church Administration has always taught us the words of God during the worship services. We have all been prepared on how to deal with trials and even persecutions before this pandemic happened. With the help of the Church officers, they untiringly advise the entire Church to continue holding the Family Hour and devotional prayers,” he added.