To kick-off the countdown for the 40th anniversary celebration of the Local Congregation of North Hollywood in the Ecclesiastical District of Los Angeles County, California, next year, a musical program was held at the Concorde Ballroom of the Airtel Plaza Hotel in Van Nuys, California, on January 19, 2025. The theme of the event was “39 Years and Counting: Road to 40.”

Dressed in formal attire, the attendees enjoyed a formal dinner while being serenaded by choral groups from each of the five areas of the congregation, who performed songs from INC original music selections.

Officers and brethren from Area 1 reinforced their commitment to loyally serve the Almighty God with their entire families through their performance of Together, while Area 2 highlighted the faith of the members of the Church with Purified Like Gold. Brethren from Area 3 proudly shared their Christian pride of belonging to God’s chosen nation in Proud Ako [I am Proud]. Area 4 delivered a poignant message with their rendition of Guide My Heart, accompanied by live guitar music, and Area 5 captivated the audience with an animated and joyous performance of People of God, Give Him Glory.

Invited and in attendance were district supervising minister Brother Artemio T. Pilon Jr. and assistant district supervising minister Brother Erwin Brillo, along with the rest of the district leadership.

For their special number, the head deacons performed Ang Sugo Ng Diyos Sa Mga Huling Araw [The Messenger Of God In These Last Days]. They were joined by resident minister Brother Linuel T. De Leon, assistant resident minister Brother Kim Johndel Gamab, and resident ministerial worker Brother Joshua Mitchell Bayuga.

In addition, a photo booth was set up for everyone to enjoy, along with a 10-minute slideshow that reflected on the significant moments of North Hollywood’s 39-year history since its establishment on January 5, 1986. The slideshow highlighted the congregation’s humble beginnings, challenges, and current achievements, all of which are credited to the great love of God. It also showcased how the congregation played a key role in the establishment of its neighboring congregations in Northridge, Santa Clarita, and Woodland Hills within the district.

“Everyone was happy to see the old pictures of brethren and past activities, knowing that they are still active members of our congregation. And not only were they happy, but they were also edified and strengthened in their faith. Speaking on behalf of those who attended, even though we didn’t explicitly make a promise to God, deep in our hearts we promised to remain members of the Church Of Christ as a result of the event,” said Brother Gamab.

Special recognitions were also given to brethren who demonstrated exemplary zeal in Church endeavors. 

The following Sunday, January 26, the brethren attended the second part of the local anniversary celebration—a special worship service officiated by Brother Antonio T. De Guzman Jr., minister of the gospel, via videoconferencing from the Central Office Complex in Quezon City, Philippines.

“We sincerely thank our Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, for remembering our congregation as we celebrate our 39th anniversary,” expressed Brother Gamab.