On May 9 and 10, 2026, the Ecclesiastical District of Silicon Valley, California hosted a blood donation activity and the inauguration of its newly renovated district office, respectively. These were part of commemorating not only the district’s second anniversary, but also the 140th birth anniversary of Brother Felix Y. Manalo, whom members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) believe to be God’s Messenger in these last days.

Blood donation

The blood donation activity was held at the function hall of the Local Congregation of San Jose, 1260 Story Rd, San Jose, CA 95122.

For the said activity, the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation, with the assistance of Christian Medical Dental and Paramedical Society (CMDPS), partnered with Vitalant San Jose, a nonprofit blood services organization.

Before the actual blood donation, donors underwent health screening. Out of 63 volunteers, 46 were qualified to donate. The collected blood was turned over to Vitalant.

Vitalant representative Nelson Rosales said in a separate interview: “Everyone here is very welcoming and greets you with a smile. There is a very positive energy. We are all coming together for one purpose—to collect as many donations as possible and help save lives across the Bay Area. If a hospital calls, we are ready to provide what is needed.”

“I’ve been part of this blood drive once or twice, before, and every time it has been a wonderful experience,” shared Greg Zagac, a Vitalant staff member. Asked about its significance, he added, “Many are in need of blood in different medical settings, including surgeries, cancer treatment, and chronic illnesses, via transfusions. Many of the donations made today will directly benefit people within our community.”

Inauguration

Led by Brother Noel Gasmen, the district supervising minister, the newly revamped district office, located at the compound of the San Jose Congregation, was inaugurated on May 10. Brethren from across the district attended the event.

As part of the program, Brother Gasmen read a message from the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo. In his letter, the Executive Minister congratulated the district on its second anniversary and the office inauguration. He reminded the brethren that their victories testify to God’s continuous fulfillment of His promises to His Messenger and the fruits of his labor. Furthermore, he emphasized the messenger’s earnest desire for all of God’s people to remain steadfast in their calling to attain salvation—a principle the current Church Administration firmly upholds.

Following the reading of the letter, newly appointed Church officers in various congregations took their oath of office. The unveiling of the new marker and the ribbon-cutting ceremony were led by Brother Gasmen and Brother Jason Dulalas, assistant district supervising minister.

The event also featured musical performances by the district’s choir showcasing INC original music. Afterward, Brother Michael Jones Magadan, the district Light of Salvation (LOS) overseer, led the closing prayer.

“We thank the Lord God for these successes. Despite challenging conditions, we witness His Almighty hand at work, blessing and guiding the Church in its entirety,” said Brother Gasmen on behalf of the district.