To mark its 75th anniversary of establishment, the Ecclesiastical District of Masbate, in the Philippines, held a series of edification activities on April 22 and 27, 2026, thereby further strengthening the faith of brethren therein.

Special gathering in Masbaranon ‘the eldest’

On April 22, 2026, Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members of the Local Congregation of Masbaranon—the first local congregation established within the district—attended a special gathering at its house of worship being also part of the district’s diamond celebration.

Brother Renato Estrada Sr., the district supervising minister, led the sacred occasion. During the study of God’s words, he urged the brethren to further intensify their faith and service to God amid life’s hardships in preparation for salvation on the nearing Judgment Day. He also called on the brethren to reflect on God’s goodness to their local congregation and thereby remain thankful for His guidance through the years.

Among the attendees were the couple Teddy and Nora Sombilon, a deacon and a choir leader, respectively. “I’m thankful to the Lord God for His guidance and blessings to our congregation, and to the Church Administration having remembered us and continuously inspiring us to be more steadfast in our faith,” Teddy said. His wife, Nora, added, “No matter what happens, we will remain in our duties and continue leading our household in active service to the Lord until the end.”

Officers’ special gathering, oath-taking of new ones

Also part of the anniversary celebration, another special gathering was held on April 27, 2026, this time exclusively attended by all Church officers. The said sacred gathering was simultaneously conducted in nine local congregations, namely, Aroroy, Bangad, Batuan, Cabitan, Dimasalang, EGM, Peña Cawayan, Placer, and Quezon.

Brother Estrada officiated at the house of worship of the EGM Congregation, while Brother Felix Hate, the assistant district supervising minister, at the house of worship of the Placer Congregation. All others were led by their fellow ministers constituting the district leadership.

In the homily, the presiding ministers underscored the relevance of Church officers’ staying dedicated to fulfill their respective duties in the spiritual welfare of God’s people in these last days. Also, they must demonstrate genuine love and care for the brethren under their care. By doing so, the officers ensure not only their salvation on Judgment Day but also of those under their supervision.

After the study of God’s words, a total of 1,200 newly appointed Church officers took their oath of duty before the Lord God.

Among those newly appointed officers were the couple Jonathan and Irene Bongares from the Local Congregation of Bagacay. They were sworn in as a safety officer and a finance officer, respectively. In a separate interview, Jonathan said, “I believe that a duty is a gift and a blessing from the Lord God. That is why I decided to accept a duty to be of help to the Church Administration.” Irene also shared, “I accepted a duty because this would help me and my family draw closer to the Lord God.”

Arcadio Pitogo Jr., who took oath as a deacon, expressed, “I thank the Lord God for the blessings and love He has poured upon our district for 75 years now. I also thank Him for entrusting me with this duty. As one of those entrusted to watch over the spiritual welfare of my brethren, I promise to be devoted to doing so .” — With reports from Raenier Moral