“Now, the place of worship is located closer to our homes,” remarked Apple Sia, deaconess. Together with her household, the 30-minute travel to their mother congregation before has been reduced to six minutes. She added, “Having a GWS here will help us to uphold attending Church activities and inviting our friends and acquaintances who are not yet members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo. We offer our gratitude to our Lord God for this blessing, and for utilizing the Executive Minister and the Church Administration for this to come to fruition.”

Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members in Makinohara, a city located in western Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, convened for the inaugural worship service of the newly-established group worship service (GWS) on September 18, 2026. Brother Amante P. Rodriguez, supervising minister of the Ecclesiastical District of Tokyo, Japan, officiated at the holy occasion.

“This new place of worship serves as a blessing. Brethren here can draw closer to God and pray for His guidance,” explained Brother Ed Ryan Santiago, resident minister. “A GWS is also vital to further spread the gospel for the salvation of more people.”

“My heart is filled with joy because the Lord God has answered my devotional prayers, and I’m inspired to dedicate myself even more to my duty,” expressed Yuka Sisik, choir member.

The Makinohara GWS conducts worship services at 1142-2 Hosoe, Makinohara. It is under the supervision of the Local Congregation of Kikugawa. — With assistance from Seiko Sasaki