Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members from the Local Congregation of Batad, Ecclesiastical District of Bogo City, Cebu, Philippines, commemorated their 25th anniversary with a special gathering at their house of worship on June 19, 2026. The Church Administration sent Brother Arnel Canicosa, Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) School For Ministers president, to officiate.

“We, in this local congregation, are overjoyed by the visit from one of the Executive Minister’s primary helpers,” expressed Regierito Japitan, head deacon. “As parents, we vow to live as good examples and guide the youth to serve faithfully through all trials until we receive our Lord God’s promises.”

“We thank God for this special gathering in commemoration of the local’s anniversary,” enthused Brother Arnold Omandam, assistant district supervising minister. Brother Dante M. Mujar, district supervising minister, added that “we’re also grateful to the Church Administration for this momentous gathering that strengthened the brethren’s faith, inspiring them with renewed commitment to dedicated service amidst a troubled world.”

The brethren in the congregation experienced various trials last year, including two successive high magnitude earthquakes, yet they remained steadfast in their faith. They firmly believe that God helped them even in times of severe calamities, thus, they reached their founding anniversary.

Brother Patrick Macanas, resident ministerial worker, led the congregation in preparing for the anniversary. He shared that, together with the Church officers, “we visited the brethren, encouraging them to be active in serving the Lord God. This gathering brings immense spiritual blessings and sparked an even greater sense of joy and spiritual fervor to them.”

A general cleaning of the house of worship and its compound was held on June 6 and 13 as part of the anniversary activities. Other activities were a Pasugo Drive and evangelical mission the next day, June 20. — With assistance from Kevin Andagan