The Local Congregations of Armadale and Stirling, both in the Ecclesiastical District of Western Australia, commemorated their fourth and fifth anniversaries, respectively, on February 23, 2025.

Brethren in Armadale held their musical program at Armadale District Hall Corner Jull Street and Church Avenue, Armadale while those of Stirling at Filipino Australian Club of Perth along Catherine St, Bedford.

District supervising minister Brother Nolly Esperanza attended both occasions wherein brethren bonded over fun games, and those talented among them showcased their rendition of Iglesia Ni Cristo original songs.

“We started with a few members in the congregation but we grew in number each year,” attested one of Stirling Congregation’s pioneer members and head deacon Celso Almodovar. With their congregation established almost a month prior to Covid-19 lockdowns, “one of the challenges the brethren faced was the Covid-19 pandemic [itself].” But instead of being hindered, “the brethren grew stronger in the faith, many even accepted Church duties [that time],” he added.

The Armadale Congregation was also established in February but a year later, in 2021. Its anniversary celebration became doubly special when it also held an INC Giving event during its musical program. With their guests and homeless individuals, the brethren watched a video presentation introducing the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ), as well as the INC Giving activities it has by far conducted around the world.

A musical performance by some Buklod members followed, and then the giving of care packages containing cereals, milk, canned foods, biscuits, noodles, among others, was led by Brother Esperanza.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to attend the Church anniversary event. It was a truly wonderful experience, and I felt so welcomed by everyone,” said guest Margreat Jancy Siluvai Alangaram. “Receiving such thoughtful things and being part of the celebration filled me with joy, and I sincerely appreciate the generosity of the members. May God continue to bless the Church [Of Christ] and its members.”

“The activity was exciting, engaging, and open to everyone,” said another guest Elizabeth Adinkra.

“These local congregations’ anniversaries signify that God is true to His promises, that He will continue to bless the entirety of the Church, and these congregations among those that reaped many successes,” Brother Esperanza said in an interview. “With God’s help to these congregations, I encourage the brethren to continue uniting with the Church Administration when it comes to the things that give glory to our Almighty God. Because if He is pleased with us, He will bless us with many victories.” — With reports from Hannah Sharlene Leoncio and Michelle Martinez of INC News Section