The Ecclesiastical District of Sorsogon, in the Philippines, celebrated its diamond anniversary via a series of activities held on various dates in September.

Family Fun Day
On September 19, around 2,000 brethren with their respective families gathered at the Sorsogon Provincial Gymnasium in Sorsogon City for a Family Fun Day.

During the said event, brethren engaged in various fun-filled activities as they went to booths set up by district Christian Family Organizations (CFO) officers, and witnessed fellow brethren as they showcased their talents.

Bernard Ernacio, a head deacon from Sorsogon City Congregation, shared that he and his family “enjoyed taking part in this activity which truly helps strengthen the bond among family members.”

Districtwide evangelical mission
On September 25, an evangelical mission was held at the house of worship of Sorsogon City Congregation. Having invited nonmembers on days prior up to that actual day, around 400 guests attended the occasion. They listened to God’s words preached by the district supervising minister, Brother Ariel F. Ernie.

Brother Ernie emphasized the biblical teaching that those who aspire for salvation must choose for themselves. As he preached, Brother Ernie reiterated God’s invitation for man to choose life, emphasizing that those who do decides to join the true Church which the Lord Jesus Christ redeemed with His precious blood. In these last days, it is the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ).

INConcert
Two days after, on September 27, brethren returned to the Sorsogon Provincial Gymnasium for an INConcert.

District CFO overseer, Brother Jefferson Remulla, led the opening prayer. Then, Brother Ernie read the message of Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Executive Minister of the Iglesia Ni Cristo.

Afterwards, brethren were entertained by talents of the INC Production Company (INCPC) and brethren from the district in their musical performances which featured INC Original Music. Kimberly Gata, from Matnog Congregation, shared, “the musical performances were truly heartfelt, and inspired me to remain steadfast in my faith.”

The program concluded with a closing remark and prayer led by assistant district supervising minister, Brother Thomas Tareno II.

Jonnie Jaylo, member of the Sorsogon Choir, enthused, “I am happy for being able to take part in this activity. There may be conflicts in our schedules for I and fellow choristers are also studying, while others have their respective jobs, but thanks be to God for He still made it possible for us to perform today.”

Thankful to God
“We thank our Lord God for through the Church Administration, we can feel His love, care and concern for us. That is why until now, we are able to continue fulfilling our duties,” expressed Brother Ernie on behalf of the district. “For the past 75 years, the brethren in the Ecclesiastical District of Sorsogon endured hardships, persecutions and even severe calamities. Despite all of these, they remained steadfast in their zeal that no matter what happens, and they will stand firm in the faith especially now that salvation is at hand.”

The district was established on September 23, 1951. — With reports from Arnel Labay