Citing recent events, Brother John Rence Nuestro, a deacon, shared, “Because of Taal Volcano eruption, the restaurant where my wife [a deaconess], and I worked, was ordered closed. We had no work and received no pay for 14 days.” But Brother John Rence did not lose hope. He said, “In the worship services, I prayed hard. I told God about my worries and struggles. I felt the outpouring of blessings from our Almighty Father. He did not forsake our family. During the eruption of Taal Volcano, aid from the Church Administration was sent to our local congregation and my family was one of those who benefited. There were also those who offered me cleaning jobs and I earned more than I expected.”

Inspired by Brother Eduardo Manalo’s homily, Brother John Rence said, “I will continue to help the Church Administration in taking care of the brethren, edifying their faith and making sure that they remain active in the Iglesia Ni Cristo despite the calamities.”

“Holding worship services in high regard,” were the words etched in the heart of Brother Joseph Salgado: “Never be absent from the worship services and constantly renew your way of life.” Brother Joseph, also a deacon, shared how his life changed when he became a Church member: “Before I was baptized in the Iglesia Ni Cristo, I was a carefree individual without direction in life. When I became a member, I learned the importance of worshiping God in the true Church. I once declined a job promotion offered to me because the job required more time which would hinder me from fulfilling my duties as a deacon.” 

Brother Joseph has witnessed how his wife and his only daughter, both with congenital heart diseases, still manage to attend the worship services despite their condition. “God promises long life to those who are obedient and to those who constantly renew their way of life,” said Brother Joseph. “We should never doubt Him.”

Because the brethren greatly value worshiping God, they make various sacrifices in order to attend the worship services. Brother Jesus Benalla, group overseer recounted, “There are instances when we have to walk for almost an hour just to attend worship services because we do not have money to pay for the fare. But no matter what his sacrifices are, Brother Jesus said, “When I worship God inside the chapel, I find peace; I always pray, I trust in Him, and I am committed to my duties of looking after the brethren under my care.” 

Brother Eduardo Manalo reminded the brethren to remain steadfast in their faith in God and in what God can do to their lives. He admonished all in attendance to unite in obeying all of God’s commandments, so that His merciful blessings will continue to pour out on them and their families, and for them to receive the things they need, which they convey to God through their fervent prayers.

At 99, Sister Bibiana Rodrigo, the only living pioneering member of the local congregation, has difficulty walking. Yet, she remains active in attending the worship services. “My being a Church Of Christ member will bring me to salvation. Where else can I get that blessing? I always attend the worship service because this is where I draw strength. I am happy when I am inside the chapel. I receive more than what I pray for.” Sister Bibiana’s firm conviction and faithful promise is to “uphold my Church membership until my last breath.”

Through the pastoral visit of the Executive Minister, the brethren from the Ecclesiastical District of Cavite South, received their edification and inspiration at a time they needed it most. The brethren returned to their homes and continued on with their daily life with renewed faith, promising that they will constantly return to the house of worship—a place where they feel safe—and uphold their worship services to God until the very end.