Thanking God as their congregation reached its 85th anniversary, brethren from the Local Congregation of Butong, Ecclesiastical District of Batangas, Philippines, witnessed a musical competition organized by Christian Family Organizations (CFO) officers of the congregation. The event was held at the Taal Convention Center, in Taal, Batangas on September 30, 2024.

CFO choirs—Buklod, KADIWA, Binhi, and Children’s Worship Service (CWS)—displayed their singing prowess with their rendition of Iglesia Ni Cristo original music.

They sang Ikaw na Aking Hinawakan Mula sa mga Wakas ng Lupa ( You whom I have taken from the ends of the earth), Tapat hanggang wakas (Faithful until the end), Kakampi Natin ang Diyos, Siya ang Mandirigmang Makapangyarihan (God is on our side, He is the Almighty Warrior), and ‘We Care for the World,’ respectively. The district music team and the Batangas Dance Company of the adjacent district, Batangas North, also performed at the event.

Organist and public school teacher Michelle Pagkaliwagan from the Calumpang East Congregation; choir director Nesson Aguilar from the Balayan Congregation; and assistant choir director John Mar Mea from the Cuenca Congregation, served as the judges; originality, musicality, voice quality, and stage presentation as their criteria. Brother Pedro Castillo, district supervising minister, graced the event with his presence.

“Their performances were incredibly heartwarming, even brought me to tears. I’m inspired to further fulfill my duties to God,” said Aguilar. “I can hardly contain the joy I feel as we celebrate the milestone anniversary of our local congregation. None of this would be possible without God’s help and mercy,” he added.

The Buklod choir was announced champion; that of the KADIWA, Binhi, and CWS as first, second, and third runners-up, respectively. They all received trophies. For the finale, all the choral groups singing “Luha ng Kagalakan” (Tears of Happiness).

“I’m thankful to our Lord God having witnessed our congregation’s 85th milestone anniversary. Undoubtedly, He has showered our local congregation with countless blessings since its humble beginnings in 1939,” said deacon Arnel Mendoza. “I thank the Church Administration as well for tirelessly leading the entire Church toward spiritual maturity, ensuring that all the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members will receive salvation on Judgment Day. I will remain united with them always for the glory of God,” he added.

The local congregation is led by Brother Marvic Saraza, resident ministerial worker.