Overflowing joy was what the members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) in the Local Congregation of Ibayo, Ecclesiastical District of Makati, Philippines experienced when the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, led them in a worship service on June 27, 2025, which was highlighted by the ordination of 36 new ministers.

In his Bible-based sermon, Brother Eduardo Manalo taught that Church members must not be afraid if they face persecutions and trials, for God is their refuge, strength, and protection. No matter how difficult life becomes, they can overcome any challenge—even in the midst of the world’s alarming situation—because God does not forsake His chosen ones. It behooves the members of the Church, then, to completely put their trust in the Almighty Father.

God’s guidance and help are truly manifested to the congregation as it reached its 79th anniversary this year, having been established on October 20, 1946. With only 80 members during its beginnings, the brethren have battled severe hardships, trials, and persecutions through the decades. There were even times when their former house of worship was pelted with stones during their worship services. But their faith remained unshaken. They tirelessly shared the gospel and, with God’s help, the membership steadily grew in number as more people joined the Church. Time came when their former house of worship, which could accommodate only 150 worshipers, was renovated into a 1,200-seater worship building.

Before the Executive Minister’s sermon, the opening prayer was led by Makati assistant district supervising minister Brother James Jasper E. Villanueva. Brother Romer D. Galang led the prayer after the preaching of the gospel. Brother Bienvenido C. Santiago administered the oath-taking of the 36 would-be ministers. Brother Arnel R. Canicosa led the congregation in prayer after the laying on of hands by the Executive Minister. The prayer for the voluntary offerings was led by Brother Ernesto V. Suratos and the benediction was said by Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo, the Deputy Executive Minister.

The worship service all the more inspired the brethren to continue holding on to God. With renewed zeal, they will fulfill their Church duties with joy and remain faithful until the very end—standing firm in the truth that God is indeed their refuge, their strength, and their protection.