On November 10, 2024, the Ecclesiastical District of Tokyo, Japan held a special gathering for all the Church officers under its supervision, during which 174 new officers took their oath. The momentous occasion was led by Brother Rene Panoncillo, General Secretary of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ), at the house of worship of the Local Congregation of Saitama.
The said holy occasion was streamed live to other local congregations, extensions, and group worship services within the district.
During the Bible-based lesson, Brother Panoncillo emphasized to all attendees the importance of remaining devoted to their sworn duties to the Lord God. He reminded them that actively fulfilling their respective duties ensures them God’s blessings, especially the salvation of their souls on Judgment Day. After the homily, Brother Amante Rodriguez, the district supervising minister, led the oath-taking of the new officers.
“I thank the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, for strengthening the faith of all Church officers in our district by sending one of His primary helpers to lead us today,” stated Jericho Esmabe, head deacon of the Yokota Congregation. “The lesson was truly inspiring, urging us to remain resilient in our faith despite the challenges of the world, so we can stay true to our calling until the end,” he added.
“I feel elated to have taken oath of office. Being a Church officer is a significant responsibility, and so I promise to God that I will fulfill it wholeheartedly until the end to receive salvation come Judgment Day,” said Edryck Montifar from Saitama Congregation, who took oath as a choir member. — With reports from Kaezeth Mercado of INC News Section