UK District inspires, fetes fresh grads in back-to-back activities

A baccalaureate gathering was first held at the house of worship of the Local Congregation of Battersea, London, England. Other members of the Christian Brotherhood International (CBI) from outlying areas of London, and those in Ireland, attended via videoconferencing. A short program followed right after at the adjacent function hall.

In his Bible-based homily, Brother Glenn Gomez, district supervising minister, reminded the attendees that although they are encouraged to excel in their studies, more importantly, they ought to prioritize God in their lives by giving high regard to their Church membership and being obedient to all of His commandments they are taught, one of which is always worshiping Him.

Franz Daniel Sagun, CBI vice director, and choir member from the Local Congregation of Manchester, said, “We have the true God to confide in, and His words as our instruction manual. Thus, we must not just focus on the things we need in this life like food, a home or a career. We’re working towards our reason for being, that is, to honor and obey God, so that He may deem us worthy of His promised eternal life.”

In the program that followed, Regine Gonzales and Judelle Alipio, CBI and Christian Employees Association (CEA) officers, respectively, served as keynote speakers. They shared, in turns, their personal experiences, as well as valuable insights, on time management in order to fulfill both their studies and Church duties. They also encouraged the attendees to keep their trust in God as He always works to make all things work together for the good of His faithful servants. Afterwards, talented brethren presented musical performances.

“I study Law at a university, while working part-time, and there are my Church duties to perform. Juggling all these responsibilities was challenging for me. There were times I felt unable to cope anymore. Nonetheless, I continued praying to God. He did not forsake me,” said Carmella Faller, CBI directress, choir member, and KADIWA vice president from the Local Congregation of Exeter, England. — With reports from INC News Section