First local congregation in Spain celebrates 45th anniversary

By KYLE RONUALD M. ARELLANO

Date Posted: February 11, 2025

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The Local Congregation of Madrid, the first ever congregation of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) in Spain, reached its 45th anniversary on January 7, 2025.

In celebration, brethren there gathered at the auditorium of the Salesianos Estrecho – Colegio San Juan Bautista on January 12, 2025 for a series of activities. They were joined by those from the neighboring congregations of Madrid Norte and Madrid Sur.

The first among the events was the special gathering officiated at by Brother Robert Pellien, minister of the gospel sent by the Church Administration, who read a letter from the Church’s Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, prior to the homily. Afterwards, a medical mission, spearheaded by Spain District’s Christian Medical Dental and Paramedical Society (CMDPS), was held benefiting the brethren who attended the activity. Later in the afternoon, an INConcert was held. Dance and song numbers featuring INC original music such as Brave, Fight, Believe in His promise, Your Church Continues On, Stay Strong, and more brought delight to the audience.

Reactions

“We are so blessed to have been remembered by Brother Eduardo Manalo for Madrid’s anniversary celebration,” expressed Rosalinda Obar, head secretary of Madrid Congregation and one of its pioneer members. “I felt immense joy upon hearing his message for us. We may be far in distance from the Executive Minister but his concern is truly felt in overseeing us,” she added.

“I’m so glad for being able to take part in this activity by showcasing my rendition of a song,” said Britany Zaraga from Madrid Congregation. “Indeed, it’s when brethren gather together, from preparation to the actual day of activity, that we become closer and inspire each other in fulfilling our duties,” she further stated.

Madrid Congregation resident minister Brother Julius Lansangan expressed, “I thank God, as well as the Church Administration, for approving this celebration for our local congregation’s anniversary which will all the more edify the Church members in Madrid region.”

District Light of Salvation (LOS) overseer Brother Oliver Ocampo, who was present in the activities, said, “With all the things happening around, problems and difficulties that even Church members experience, activities such as these renew the brethren’s strength, that they may continue on in pleasing God,” he attested. — With reports from Noemi Jimenez of INC News Section