The pioneering group worship service (GWS) of New Zealand North Ecclesiastical District, Taupo GWS, has become a full-fledged local congregation.

The worship service marking this milestone was held on October 5, 2024 in a rented hall at 96 Richmond Avenue, Richmond Heights, Taupo, New Zealand. Succeeding worship services will be held in the same venue.

Brother Dennis Dahunan, district supervising minister, led the brethren in giving praises to the Almighty God for His help and mercy allowing the establishment of the said congregation.

During the sacred occasion, Brother Dahunan administered the oath-taking of officers who will be performing various responsibilities in the said congregation.

Ricky Madrid, head deacon, expressed his thankfulness “for although they are in a far location, the Almighty God, through the Church Administration, makes sure that their spiritual needs be provided as manifested by the establishment of this local congregation.”

The congregation started as committee prayer group in April 1982 upon the Church Administration’s approval of the request of spouses Nigel and Fleurdeliza Spice. Since then, committee prayer meetings were held at their residence at 8 Newberry Place, Richmond Heights, in Taupo. With God’s grace, membership increased in the said area prompting the transfer of worship services to four other venues prior to being named as a local congregation.

Brother Othoniel Jay Duremdes, resident minister, remarked that the establishment of the said local congregation “brought joy to the brethren, and will be a source of inspiration for all of us here to remain zealous in serving our Lord God.” — With reports from Myrhinne Iglesia of INC News Section