“The Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) has worked tirelessly to become a beacon of hope in helping its members grow closer and more steadfast in their faith and championing the generosity that our city in Red Deer strives for.”

This was part of the message delivered by the Red Deer City Mayor Ken Johnston as he recognized the humanitarian efforts carried out by the Church Of Christ led by the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, through its socio-civic arm, the Felix Y. Manalo (FYM) Foundation, Inc.

Mayor Johnston also encouraged his fellow Red Deerians to “recognize and celebrate the contributions and many acts of service of Iglesia Ni Cristo that build community life for all. I have set my seal and hand on this particular day. Thank you very much.”

The special recognition given by the City Council of Red Deer in Alberta, Canada was held on August 18, 2023 at the Red Deer City Hall. It was received, on behalf of the Church Of Christ, by the FYM Foundation representatives as well as ministers of the gospel assigned in the Ecclesiastical District of Calgary, Canada.

In an interview, Mayor Johnston, explained, “The recognition is based on longevity, in other words, a proven track record and a commitment to the place. And that’s what the [FYM] Foundation has done in Red Deer. And we’re happy and privileged to be able to recognize it that way.”

“[The city of] Red Deer is a recipient of the many Care for Humanity [events] being done by the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation. Because, as we all know, there are those people here in this part of Canada who are also in need. So, the Administration of the Church, through the FYM Foundation, extended the help,” stated Brother Eduardo G. Javier, the FYM Foundation’s Parliamentarian and district supervising minister of Northwest California District.

In his speech, he extended his thanks to Red Deer City and vowed to “continue fostering kindness, reaching out to others, and providing hope to those who are in need. Kindness has the power to unite and heal a community.”

After receiving the special recognition, the FYM Foundation provided monetary donations to five organizations as part of the Church’s ongoing commitment in helping the community.

Destiny Mand, representative of Ronald McDonald House Charities Alberta, one of the beneficiaries, said, “Thank you to the Church Of Christ for supporting us … supporting families who are traveling to access medical care.”

“I was amazed at how widespread your organization reaches. It was really good to see how much you care about the community and not just care about certain people, certain religions. You’re helping everybody and that’s really great to see,” expressed Jeremy Warkentin of Red Deer Firefighters Children’s Charity Association.

Asha Goda of the Central Alberta Immigrant Women’s Association, another beneficiary, said, “Usually churches go to underprivileged, underserved community … You recognized us and that’s a very humbling thing for us. We are very grateful to see the donation and contribution of goods.”

Brother Voltaire A. Tamisin, FYM Foundation’s member of the Board of Directors and Calgary District supervising minister, enthused, “Today is a blessed day to members of the Church Of Christ and the FYM Foundation. It proves the words of the Lord God and the Lord Jesus Christ within the Holy Scriptures about the Church Of Christ and the work of salvation in these last days. The mayor himself recognized the Church and the FYM Foundation, which exemplify and uphold compassion, generosity, and respect.” — With reports from Johnny Adalla of INC News Section