“I’m excited. It’s always great spending time with our fellow brothers and sisters, and having some friendly competition.”

This was the statement of Dominic Espino, Buklod president of the Austin Congregation, regarding the INC Unity Games: Basketball and Volleyball Edition that the Ecclesiastical District of Texas held on September 7, 2026.

Church members from all local congregations of the district traveled to the Round Rock Sports Center, an indoor multisport facility, for the much-awaited event.

“When my family heard about the Unity Games, we were very excited. We didn’t mind traveling six hours to participate in this activity,” said Hannie Bayron, from the Edinburg Congregation, who played women’s volleyball.

After the opening parade, Brother Teodorico S. Samson Jr., assistant district supervising minister, administered the oath of sportsmanship, reminding the players of the importance of upholding Christian values even during sporting events. Afterwards, Brother Noel C. Caritativo, district supervising minister, welcomed the players and spectators in his opening remarks.

Competitions in men’s basketball, men’s volleyball, and women’s volleyball were simultaneously held. After roughly seven hours of the games’ duration, the Houston Congregation was declared winner in all categories.

“The brethren were indeed happy. Even though there was competitiveness among the players, but more so, the love of the brotherhood shone all throughout the activity,” said Brother Erwin B. Sunga, district Christian Family Organizations (CFO) overseer, in an interview after the event.

Speaking on behalf of the district, Brother Caritativo conveyed, “We are thankful to our Almighty God as well as to our beloved Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, and our Deputy Executive Minister, Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo, for CFO activities like the INC Unity Games. This has truly brought joy to the brethren and edified the brotherhood in our district.” — With assistance from Texas District Multimedia