The Ecclesiastical District of New Zealand North commemorated its eighth anniversary through a special gathering of Church officers and an INConcert which were held on September 15 and 21, 2025, respectively.

Special gathering

Church officers received spiritual nourishment in the special gathering which was held mainly at the house of worship of the Local Congregation of Auckland. Their fellow officers gathered in their respective local congregations’ places of worship connected through videoconferencing.

District supervising minister Brother Dennis Dahunan officiated at the special gathering. After the singing of hymns of praise and a prayer led by the assistant district supervising minister Brother Jonas Medrano, he delivered the sermon based on the Holy Scriptures.

Brother Dahunan exhorted the officers to be even more devoted to their Church duties for the importance of these not only in their lives but that of the brethren as well. He also encouraged them to perform their roles in their families as good Christians should.

After the homily, certificates of recognition were given to long-time Church officers who have shown dedication to their duties.

One of them, Marlon de Guzman from Manukau South Congregation, a choir member for 37 years now, said, “Whenever I fulfill my duties in the Church Of Christ, my inspiration is our Almighty God Who always sustains my life, strength, life, and daily needs. I recognize all of His goodness by remaining loyal to Him.”

Asked to share some words of advice to the younger officers, another awardee, 43-year finance officer Ulpianessa Bandong from the Rotorua Congregation, said, “Be courageous in following God’s commandments, that is, by renouncing unchristian influences in the world. May worshiping God and performing our sacred obligations be our top priorities in life.”

INConcert

A week after the special gathering, the brethren further celebrated their district’s anniversary via the INConcert that was held at The Fale Hall, K’aute Pasifika Trust, 100 Seddon Rd. Frankton, Hamilton.

Brother Dennis Dahunan gave the opening remarks following a prayer led by district Light of Salvation overseer Brother Arturo Martin, district supervising minister.

All in attendance enjoyed watching and listening to various renditions of INC original music, including “Nananalig,” “We’re INC For Life,” “I Will Praise You,” and “I Was Lost, Now I’m Found.” In between performances by solo singers, choral groups, and bands, an audiovisual presentation was shown featuring the district’s history and CFO activities through the years.

Brother Medrano gave the closing remarks, after which district treasurer Brother Khevin Villanueva led the closing prayer. — With assistance from Elaine Marie Ignacio