WITH THE NOBLE purpose and aspiration of giving God honor and glory in all endeavors, the Local Congregation of Madrigal, Ecclesiastical District of Metro Manila South, joyously celebrated its 70th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone occasion, the congregation held a series of activities.

The activity that most resonated in the hearts of the brethren, giving them hope and strength, was the pastoral visit of the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, to this local congregation. On this occasion, the Executive Minister emphasized the importance of pleasing God not out of coercion, but out of a sincere desire to bring joy to Him.

On this particular day, the theme, “People of God Should Continue to Please Him,” was introduced by the Executive Minister. The members of the congregation strongly feel the timeliness and relevance of this message.

“Overflowing excitement and joy filled my heart, for I believe that the Church Administration’s guidance will bring additional spiritual blessings to strengthen our faith even more and keep us steadfast in our holy calling,” shared Sister Zyra Nicael Fajardo, a choir member and Binhi district officer registered in the local congregation.

Additionally, she recounted how her family’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling their Church duties and maintaining fervent in their prayers helped sustain them when their father and mother fell ill at the same time. Her family’s faith helped them overcome these hardships as the Lord blessed and healed both of their parents, which echoes the Executive Minister’s message: “When we bring joy to God, He will also grant us joy.”

Furthermore, this experience instilled in them the resolve to all the more strive in fulfilling their obligations and to deepen their connection with God amid life’s trials.

The story of Sister Avelina Navarro, a pioneer Church officer in the congregation, is filled with cherished memories from the early days of the congregation. She likewise recalled how the Lord never forsook her and her family.

“Our household would leave home early in the morning and return in the afternoon to perform our duties at the local congregation. Sometimes, we got home at midnight. Our children, who were in the children’s worship service and choir, stayed up late with us because our home was far. They had to travel with us,” she said.

Setting an example for her children, she recalled the time she chose to sacrifice her livelihood to fulfill her duties, aligning with this year’s theme in a remarkable manner.

“As taught in the lesson, as members and officers in the Church, we must strive to bring joy to our Father because doing so assures us of His promised blessings. I believe we should wholeheartedly fulfill our sacred duties, singing praises with all our heart and soul, and continue to follow all the teachings to bring greater joy to our Father,” she added.

Members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo in the Local Congregation of Madrigal reflect on their humble beginnings and unwavering faith which have shaped the congregation into what it is today. Through the teachings delivered by the Executive Minister, brethren—both from this congregation and those who have witnessed this special worship service worldwide through video streaming—renewed their faith and commitment to following the Lord’s commandments wholeheartedly, seeking to please Him and give Him glory.

By Bianca Czailyn L. Caraig