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The Ecclesiastical Districts of New Zealand North and New Zealand South respectively held Christian Family Organizations (CFO) activities that were aimed at strengthening bonds among family members, especially their faith.
Led by district supervising minister Brother Dennis Dahunan, members from the New Zealand North District flocked in Whakapapa, Ruapehu for a CFO Fun Walk on August 10, 2025. The event, held in the picturesque alpine setting, involved a 250-meter walk from the Boomerang Ski Club to the Tahurangi Ski Club.
“This activity goes beyond mere enjoyment and recreation,” said Society of Communicators and Networkers International member Mark Nabus from the Local Congregation of Wellington. “It also solidifies the love of the brotherhood and reinforces family relationships.”
“What stood out to me the most was the brethren’s unity,” observed choir member Jannielle Haydn Santiago from the Wellington Congregation. “Brethren from different congregations united despite the distance they had to travel just to be here. It’s great to see how the Church has grown and remain in unity.”
A week later, on August 17, the New Zealand South Ecclesiastical District conducted their Songs of Faith, Love, and Hope (SOFLAH)-Family Edition at the Aldersgate Centre in Christchurch. As its name signifies, this singing competition featuring INC original music showcased the talents of family members.
The district leadership, led by supervising minister Brother Uziel Bongares, graced the activity with their presence.
“Since our ecclesiastical district has just started, holding this activity is very important because it creates opportunities for brethren and families to connect through musical performances,” Brother Bongares explained. “It’s a competition, but all the contestants focused on expressing their faith, love, and hope as members of one big family that is the Church Of Christ.”
The Mariano sisters from the Local Congregation of Riccarton, who performed a duet of May I Always Be True, was declared champion of the singing competition. Miguel siblings from Christchurch East Congregation and Paituar sisters from Christchurch Congregation got first runner-up and second runner-up, respectively.
“Our goal was to participate in the activities launched by the Church Administration,” said Janice Mariano on behalf of her sister. “We’re thankful for this kind of activity because not only were we showcasing our talents but also submitting to the Administration, and at the same time, strengthening our faith even more,” she added.
“Through our preparation and performance of Ama, Kami Ay Sa Iyo Pa Rin, my sister and I, together with our family, grew stronger in unity and faith,” narrated Geraldjine Paituar. “Every practice became a family effort, with everyone supporting, encouraging, and guiding us along the way.” Her sister Geraldine added, “The song’s message reminded us that no matter what we face, we must always keep on praising God. This experience not only deepened our bond as siblings but also brought our whole family closer, strengthening our love for one another and our faith in God.” — With reports from Elaine Ignacio and James Thadeo Villanueva of INC News Section
