From recent special gatherings, the young members and Church officers from the congregations in the Ecclesiastical District of Hawaii-Pacific benefited for their spiritual enrichment, adding zeal to their services to the Lord. 

On October 13, 2024, Church officers throughout the district attended the gathering. The house of worship of Ewa Beach Congregation in Ouho Island served as the host site, while the rest of the district were able to witness via videoconferencing.

Brother Adorado Apostol, assistant supervising minister presided the said gathering. In his Bible-based preaching, he emphasized that as true Christians, Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members ought to strive to please the Lord God. He further added that those whom God choose to become officers are highly expected to lead the brethren in giving glory to Him.

During the said gathering, 83 new officers took their oath of duty.

“This event also addresses the growing needs of our district,” said Brother Randy Weir, the Church officers overseer. He added that “One way by which we can please the Lord God is to accept Church duties. Such is a gift from Him. When we are able to manifest our faith and trust in Him, He will always be there to help and protect us at all times.”

Julian Mae Sanchez, who took oath as the district Binhi vice president, remarked how important it is “to be close to God. I believe that amidst the evil influences today, being active to my duties will protect my faith.”

Five days after, on October 18, 2024, KADIWA and Binhi members attended a special gathering at the house of worship of Waipahu Congregation. It was also livestreamed to the rest of the congregations in the district.

Brother Gem Baitan, district supervising minister, preached from the Bible that youth members of the Church should stand their ground amid the evil influences in the world. He reminded them to be aware that God is making the finishing touches in the salvation work in the Church.

He also exhorted the youth to entrust their aspirations in life to the Almighty God for He alone can truly help them reach their goals in life, reminding them that He is the one who leads His people to salvation.

“We are living in difficult times. There’s a lot of things that contest and go against our faith, so constant reminders and having these special gatherings are really important, to keep our faith strong and to remain united with the Church Administration,” said Jandel Gumayagay, a KADIWA member from the Kaneohe Congregation. — With assistance from Bruce Tan