The Christian Society for the Deaf, an organization under the Christian Family Organizations (CFO), was renamed as Christian Society for the Differently-abled (CSD) to be more inclusive for all brethren with special needs.

Approved by the Church Administration, such development was made known to Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members all over the world through their respective CFO Cares activity intended for the differently-abled, starting on May 1, 2026. This coincided, as well, with the birthday of Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo, the Church’s Deputy Executive Minister.

CSD members got to experience fun-filled activities, mainly focused in enhancing their skills. They were also given care packages from the Church Administration.

Philippines

The ecclesiastical districts of Central and Quezon City held their CFO Cares at Central Recreation and Fitness Center in Quezon City, Makati and Marikina districts at Cuneta Astrodome and The Garden Mirrors Events, respectively.

“Thank you so much for aside the memorable experience my son had, he received care packages which would greatly help him,” enthused Jesusa De Maiwat of the Sampaguita Congregation in Marikina District and mother of Miguel who is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

In northern Luzon, some districts and their venues for CFO Cares were: Ilocos Sur District at Caoayan Farmers Convention Center; Quirino District at Palacian Congregation parking area; and Urdaneta City, Pangasinan District at Jacob Congregation compound.

“It is an honor to be an extension of the Church Administration’s love for our brethren with special needs,” said John Michael Rabara, Urdaneta City, Pangasinan District CSD adviser.

Also, CFO Cares from those in Central Luzon, like Bulacan South, Zambales North, and Zambales South districts, were held in McDonald’s Events Place in Meycauayan, Ochave Residence, and Subic Sports Complex, respectively.

The Ecclesiastical Districts of Batangas North, Calamian, Quezon, and Camarines Norte, located in the southern part of Luzon, had their CFO Cares activity in the following venues, in chronological order according to the aforementioned districts: La Petite Ville Playground, San Jose Congregation’s compound, Pacific Mall Activity Center, and Jhabibi Covered Court.

Batangas North District CFO overseer, Brother Rey Angel Buenviaje felt immense joy “upon seeing the smiles of every CSD member during the activity. Truly, this is something that they will cherish in their lives, being able to feel the love that they deserve, too.”

It was in the premises of Catbalogan Congregation that Western Samar District conducted CFO Cares for the differently-abled. “I’m very happy for we are always remembered by the Church Administration,” expressed through sign language by Sharee Ann Valles of the abovementioned congregation.

“More than just an activity, [CFO Cares for the differently-abled] became a beautiful reminder that every brother and sister deserves to feel included, appreciated, and loved,” expressed Zambales South District CSD president, Dona Balasabas. She added, “We express our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to Brother Eduardo V. Manalo and Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo.”

Abroad

The Ecclesiastical District of Italy North united for this activity on May 3 at the foyer of the Milan Congregation. Attendees, especially the parents, were all smiles upon seeing CSD members participate in activities, making new friends, and enjoying the moment.

On May 2, Los Angeles County District had the same activity at the function hall of Los Angeles Congregation.

At Rockland, New York Congregation’s function hall, New York District held their CFO Cares activity, while Texas District at the compound of San Antonio Congregation. Robert Jones, a deaf member from the San Antonio Congregation, expressed his thankfulness for the activity through sign language.