Northwest California marks Executive Minister’s 12th year of leadership with baptism of new members
By SOPHIA TRIGONIS and RONNIE H. MUTYA
Date Posted: September 23, 2021
To mark the 12th year of Brother Eduardo V. Manalo’s dynamic leadership of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ), the Ecclesiastical District of Northwest California conducted a holy baptism of new converts on September 6, 2021.
Brother Eduardo Manalo began his administration of the entire Church Of Christ as Executive Minister on September 7, 2009.
The said baptism took place at the house of worship of the Local Congregation of San Jose.
Prior to their immersion in water, the candidates for baptism received further instruction from the Bible during the baptismal service. Brother Eduardo Javier, district supervising minister, taught them the great spiritual gifts from God they were about to receive including true relation with Him as a member of the Church Of Christ, which they must hold fast till the end to be certain of receiving salvation on Judgment Day.
Having been searching for the true religion, Thomas Jenkins, felt blessed for becoming a full-fledged Church Of Christ member. “I have been in so many various churches, that I can’t really count,” he said. Having found the true Church where he can render true worship and services to God, he enthused, “It just made me the happiest type of person.”
Although aware that life in this world will be very difficult, Alvaro Baquedano, a newly baptized member, said, “I feel closer to God now [more] than ever. I know we are going to go through tough times and trials but now I know that He’s going to be there for me, no matter what.”
As the baptism in their district held was a way, among others, to commemorate the 12th year of Brother Eduardo Manalo’s stewardship of the Church, Brother Javier, said, “We are so happy that our Lord God answered the prayer of the entirety of the Church. Brother Eduardo Manalo continue giving us guidance, protecting our faith, teaching us God’s words to be worthy for our nearing salvation. We promise that we will guide the brethren, here in our district, not only in their worship of God, but also in the propagation of His words.” — With reports from INC News Section