The Ecclesiastical District of New York’s leadership convened a special meeting of prospective Children’s Worship Service (CWS) teachers and officers on May 31, 2026.

This was part of the district’s commemoration of the 140th birth anniversary of Brother Felix Y. Manalo whom Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) recognizes as God’s Messenger in these last days, as well as the first anniversary of Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo as Deputy Executive Minister.

KADIWA and Binhi members, along with current CWS officers, from various local congregations gathered at designated sites for the activity, namely, the houses of worship of the local congregations of Rockland, Bristol, Boston, and Rochester. That of the Forest Hills Congregation served as the host site to which the other venues were connected through videoconferencing.

Brother Sheridohn R. Santos, district supervising minister, officiated at the sacred gathering. In his preaching of God’s words, he explained that holding a Church office helps develop good character, proper conduct, and a positive outlook in life.

Through a video presentation, Brother Godofredo T. Gollayan Jr., SFM-Johnsonville Practicum Center Coordinator, then showed how one can become a CWS teacher.

Also featured were interviews with current CWS teachers wherein they shared how their duties have positively influenced their lives and the young brethren under their care.

“Teaching about our Almighty God and our Lord Jesus Christ has strengthened my faith,” shared Karen Castillo, a CWS teacher from Rochester Congregation. She added, “It has motivated me to lead by example.”

Meanwhile, Clifford Stirba Jr., Windham Congregation’s CWS teacher, reflected that “being a teacher has a great impact to children that even the smallest effort that I do for them really helps develop their entire life, which is definitely inspiring.” — With assistance from Dean F. Parado