Five local congregations in the Ecclesiastical District of New Zealand South unified their selfless efforts to conduct a blood donation drive on April 13, 2026.

These were Christchurch, Christchurch East, Fitzgerald, Halswell, and Ricarton, which constitute the district’s Christchurch region.

The socio-civic activity took place at the New Zealand Blood Service (NZBS) Christchurch Donor Centre at 15 Lester Lane, Addington, Christchurch 8011.

Brother Uziel B. Bongares, district supervising minister, took the lead in donating blood. Fellow ministers who compose the district leadership, including Brother Bunny Jyn Raagas, district Christian Family Organizations overseer, and Brother Noel Ilan, district Church officers overseer, likewise volunteered as blood donors.

“Members of the Church not only understand and believe God’s teachings written in the Bible but also prove these through humanitarian activities like this that offer hope, sustain life, and show compassion to those who are in need,” said Brother Bongares in an interview afterwards. “When the brethren unite in fulfilling God’s commandment to help those in need, they not only save lives but also strengthen their faith having obeyed one of God’s will,” said Brother Raagas.

NZBS donor relations coordinator Vicente Contreras shared that a total of 9,000 cc of blood were collected. “Each donation is a precious gift. It saves up to three lives as blood is separated into platelets, red cells, and plasma. Partnership with the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) is very important. Less than four percent of eligible people in the country are currently donors, so every effort counts,” he said.

Among the blood donors were choir members from Christchurch Congregation. Wendee De Dios enthused, “I was inspired that by donating blood, I’d be able to help people, save their lives.”

Fellow chorister Ariel Evangelista, added, “It’s a win-win situation. You help save lives, and your body replenishes the blood you donated. The feeling of giving something part of you to extend another’s life is truly fulfilling.” — With assistance from Leila Rivera