Saturday, August 2, 2014

The Centennial



It gives me special joy to proclaim my faith for all the world to hear. After all, it has been 100 years since the Iglesia ni Cristo, or Church of Christ, was founded in the Philippines. From its humble beginnings, the Church has risen in stature and size. Today, on our Centennial celebration, the INC has established magnificent houses of worship in more than 100 countries all over the world.

On July 27, 1914, Bro. Felix Manalo registered the Iglesia ni Cristo in the Philippines and, with his ministers, propagated the gospel and brought the church to its glory and splendor. One hundred years later, on July 27, 2014, the Church held its centennial celebration in the much-acclaimed Philippine Arena. The 55,000-seater edifice was hailed as the largest domed indoor arena in the world. It is a proud testament to the incredible growth of the church in these last days and serves as God's benevolent nod to the dedication of the members.

On the other side of the world, the wondrous excitement of the brethren who attended the activities in Ciudad de Victoria was thankfully captured via internet link-up. The live-streaming of the worship service was seen all over the world, with brethren wishing they were inside the Philippine Arena.

The most special moment for me was when Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo raised his hands to exhort the members to continue the fight and persevere against all odds. It was just what I needed to fortify me during moments of weakness and sadness. That was a defining moment that will stay in my heart forever. The message was clear... the rousing prayer was inspiring.

I remembered my friend Norma, who stayed patient with my insolent questions as I grappled with a tumultuous shift in my long-held beliefs. She paved the way in 1979, when I could no longer ignore the truth.

I thought of my brothers Cesar and Allan, who were my persecutors, and then, when they were called into the fold, they turned out to be even more devoted than me.

All the stories of faith around me filled me with pride. The OFWs who stayed strong through the pangs of loneliness were one in faith with the poor brethren in the slums of Manila. The hundred-strong choir members were united in thoughts with the surviving brethren of typhoon Yolanda. The elder members of the Church shared their joy with the youngest believers.

As the brothers and sisters raised their miniature flags from around the world, we greeted one another with “Happy Centennial.” The sea of humanity roared in exultation.

I am in unity with my brethren all over the world. One God. One Church. One faith.






Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it.
- King James Bible "Authorized Version," Cambridge Edition




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