Through the guidance and approval of the Church Administration, the Local Congregation of Downsview, Ontario, Ecclesiastical District of Greater Toronto, Canada held its inaugural worship service on December 27, 2024 at a rented events place. Brother Raul Adalla, district supervising minister, officiated at the said gathering.

In his preaching, Brother Adalla first relayed the greetings of the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, to the members of the newly established congregation. He then emphasized from the Bible that true Christians ought to further be active in serving the true God, especially during the end times or nowadays when most people’s love of God has already grown cold. Brother Adalla also exhorted the brethren to remain united in helping for the growth of the new local congregation by sharing their faith, which is truly pleasing to God.

“Becoming a local congregation is a blessing from God. For me, it also means that He is trusting us to further promote His [salvation] work here. On my part, I will do my very best by being zealous in all my Church duties,” said Ronnel Maranan, head deacon. Brethren there were formerly enlisted in the Local Congregation of Yorkdale.

On behalf of the district, Brother Adalla attested, “This is a manifestation of God’s unhindered work of salvation in these last days. He constantly fulfills His promised victories to the Church wherever the brethren are. This is also a clear proof that the Church Administration is indeed inspired by the Holy Spirit.”

Brother Franklin Bunag is the current resident minister of the Downsview Congregation. — With assistance from Danfel Serreno