"Ipaglaban mo nang puspusan ang pananampalataya. Panghawakan mong mabuti ang buhay na walang hanggan, dahil diyan ka tinawag ng Diyos nang ipahayag mo sa harap ng maraming saksi ang iyong pananalig kay Cristo." I Tim. 6:12
-->“Its impressive beautiful cathedral-chapels in the major towns and cities add to this image of imposing power.”
(Iglesia ni Cristo: A Study in Independent Church Dynamics, p.13)
“How is it that the INC has so many palatial-churches and we see them all over the country, while ours… well, sometimes we cant even tell UCCP churches from dilapidated, wooden residential houses.”
(The Isaiah Paradigm: Recapturing the role of Laity, p.116)
“…a Japanese architect was driving in Tondo and saw the Iglesia church there. Its like a jewel sparkling the sun. …I have traveled to many places, but I have not seen anything like it.”
(“A signature in the sky,” Philippine Free press, p.15)
“….churches constructed by the Iglesia ni Cristo are always expencsive and resplendent and usually appear impressive and overpowering even to the nonbeliever.”
(The Iglesia Ni Cristo , 1914-2000: From Obscure Philippine faith to Global belief system, Bijdragen, p. 581)
“In terms of buildings, there can be little doubt that the magnificent Iglesia Ni Cristo churches reflect and in most cases surpass, the grandeur of the Roman Cathedrals in the Philippines.”
(Dynamic religious movements, p. 314)
“For centuries every Philippine city and town has been dominated by its Roman Catholic cathedrals built and drafted labor on donated ground. But many of these are now old and dilapidated. Iglesia ni Cristo cathedral chapels now rival these ancient buildings in size and surpass them in beauty. Iglesia members still number only a minority of the population, but their buildings dominate many sky lines.”
(Iglesia ni Cristo: A study in Independent church dynamics, p. 180)
“One of the reasons the Iglesia ni Cristo has caught the attention of so many people is the rapid rise all over the archipelago of its beautiful and grand houses of worship. Characterized by simple, elegant lines and spires seemingly reaching for the heavens, these structures manifest the Church’s dedication to building edifices that would serve to bring glory to God. The Iglesia ni Cristo has vigoriously pursued its construction program. So far, it has constructed close to 5000 houses of worship all over the country, with close to 200 others abroad. Because of their number and distinct architectural style, these houses of worship have dramatically changed the nation’s landscape…”
(The Iglesia ni Cristo in the 20th century, Philippine Free press: 1999-2000 The Philippine century, p. 214)
“In any provincial landscape, the most visible landmark is inevitably the towering spires of the Iglesia ni Cristo church.”
(The INC now, Philippine panorama, p. 30)
“In almost every part of the country now stands an INC church. … Abroad, the INC faith has also spread fast and wide. Several INC chapels and congregations can now be found in key cities of the U.S, in England, in New Guinea, Hongkong and West Germany.”
(The Iglesia ni Cristo, Weekend, p.14)
“The continuing construction of expensive and beautiful chapels in many parts of the islands,--These buildings, often costing millions of pesos each, serve as a compensation for the poverty of many of the members. They are symbol of the success of their movement.”
(A protestant view of the Iglesia ni Cristo, p.66)
“While in the past the Catholic churches dominated for skyline in large population centers, now the huge Cathedral chapels of the Iglesia ni Cristo have risen to challenge, so to speak, the dominance of the Catholic churches. Architecturally well-designed, solidity built, painted, with manicured lawns and always looking clean, they dramatically contrast with the ancient, still strong but drab-looking Catholic Churches. ”
(Manila: history, people and culture, p.93)
“… the church’s most indelible imprint is in the form of unique and stately religious buildings.”
(The Iglesia ni Cristo 1914-2000: From Obscure Philippine faith to Global belief system, Bijdragen, p. 580)
“Why is it every time we get to talking about a strong and well-managed, disciplined and powerful church, we invariably point to the Iglesia Ni Cristo?”
“We would even heave a sigh and wonder what makes the INC so influential. What makes its members so committed and disciplined that they attend services twice a week without fail? ”
Bodegon, Joel L. (The Isaiah paradigm: Recapturing the Role of the Laity, p.116)
“The Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) is a significant element today in the religious mosaic of the Philippines. Boasting several million members…, it has been remarkable growth since its humble beginnings in 1914.”
Harper, Anne C. (The Iglesia Ni Cristo and Evangelical Christianity) Journal of Asian Missions (2001) Vol. 3, p101
“Today, the Iglesia counts among ministers Americans, Britons, Italian(s), Germans, Africans, Europeans and other Asians—and even in mainland China, the Iglesia already has set up churches and its followers are growing daily.”
(Felix Y. Manalo—111th birthday Anniversary, Erano G. Manalo—Golden Anniversary as Ordained Minister) Manila Bulletin, 1997
“…The INC each year dedicates approximately 100 church buildings that bristle with magnificent spires, feature concrete soaring arches, are painted in distinctive pastel colors, and display high standards of maintenance. Enclosed by imposing fences and carefully manicured grounds, each church dominates the local skyline. The imposing sacred structures of this dynamic religion have thus imprinted both urban and rural landscapes of the Philippines.”
Reed, Robert (From local to global: The expanding mission of the Iglesia ni Cristo in the Philippines and throughout the world.)
“The INC stands out like a rock of sobriety, unity and nationalism amid the political and economic turbulence shaking the country today..”
Editorial (Iglesia Ni Cristo’s Executive Minister Erano Manalo marks his 76th birth anniversary) Manila Bulletin, January 2, 2001
“The INC does have discipline and its leaders do keep themselves very low-key, something that we wish our own Catholic bishops would learn to do…”
Paredes, Ducky Malaya, Feb. 19, 2003
“The Iglesia Ni Cristo has indeed set a good example to other church groups and non-government organizations in extending assistance to our brothers and sisters in war-torn places in Mindanao…”
(INC’s Mindanao mission supported) Manila Bulletin July 28, 2000
“Beyond ministering to the spiritual well-being of its members, the Iglesia ni Cristo optimizes compassion and concern even for those outside its fold.”
(The Iglesia Ni Cristo in the 20th Century) Philippines Free Press: 1990-2000 The Philippines Century pp. 214-215
“Yet for all its magnificent temples and imposing edifices and other signs of material wealth, the Iglesia has remained faithful to its mission as the church of the poor… its deeds in improving the life of its followers, both spiritual and physical, are indelible tracks in Philippine religious movements.”
Villanueva, Robert C. (A church In every valley) Philippine Free press July 30, 1994
“…Bro. (Erano) Manalo’s organizational leadership remains impeccable, if not admirable. Who else, for instance, can move the INC as efficiently as the enigmatic Manalo?”
Lucero, Ferdinand O. (The 30 most influential filipinos) Men’s Zone June 1998
“… for [Bro. Erano] Manalo, prayer rallies, especially one that has a theme of peace of amid genuine treats of war, should remain just that—prayer rallies, without these being tinged with partisan politics…”
Editorial, The Daily tribune Feb. 26, 2003
“Under Brother Erano’s Dynamic stewardship, a fresh era dawned in the administration of the church, not in terms of new doctrines or new teachings but in expansion—in the ever-increasing number of brethren being added to the Church, in the numerous magnificent house(s) of worship being constructed and above all, in its overseas expansion.”
Editorial (Iglesia ni Cristo’s Executive minister Erano Manalo 75th birth anniversary) Manila Bulletin Jan. 2, 2000
“Elected by Church elders almost ten years before his father’s death and blessed with keen intellect, good looks and charismatic leadership as his Father, Bro. Erano steered the Church to unprecedented growth not only in membership and in infrastructure projects but also in its stature before Philippine society.”
Philippines-U.S.A News tribune, July 21-27, 1994
“Awed by the INC’s achievements, Senator Neptali Gonzales, a protestant pillar has commented, ‘the success of this God-inspired mission which he [Brother Felix Manalo] began in 1914, is all too evident in the fantastic growth of the church here and abroad. Its grand chapels which dominate our skyline are unequalled in their magnificence’.”
I send greetings to the members of Iglesia Ni Cristo as you celebrate your 90th anniversary.
Faith plays an important role in the lives of many Americans, offering strength and guidance for the challenges of each new day. By encouraging the celebration of faith and sharing the message of God’s love and boundless mercy, churches like yours put hope in people’s hearts and a sense of purpose in their lives.
This milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on your years of service and to rejoice in God’s faithfulness to your congregation. In the days ahead, may your community continue to grow in faith and friendship.
Laura joins me in sending our best wishes for a memorable celebration.
George bush
The Vice President
Washington
July 13, 2004
Dear friends:
I was pleased to learn that the congregation of Iglesia Ni Cristo is celebrating the church’s ninetieth anniversary. Lynne joins me in sending you our heartiest congratulations on this special occasion.
Throughout our history, Americans have turned to their neighborhood churches, synagogues, temples and mosques for fellowship, guidance and support in good times and bad. I commend your congregation’s decades of commitment to providing comfort, education and spiritual growth to the local community.
May you grow in faith as you continue to offer hope and may our loving God bless each one of you.
Sincerely,
Dick Cheney
Iglesia Ni Cristo
5225 Hagan road
Temple Hills, Maryland20748-4623
MalacananPalace
Manila
July 27, 2004
Brother Erano Manalo
Executive Minister
Church of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo)
Dear Brother Erdy,
Our warmest greetings to the Church in its 90th anniversary in the Philippines!
For nine decades now, the church has been a part of country’s history and each chapter of that saga reveals every pages that chronicle the triumph of the church. From its pioneering years, the church endured. No persecution was so great that it did not overcome. Even war and devastation did not hinder its onward march.
We marvel at the Administration’s dynamic and ardent leadership. Those who challenged the church had come and gone and had since been forgotten. On the other hand, the church grows and becomes stronger each day. Truly, the mighty hand of God is at work and he is always at your side.
We take this opportunity to thank you and the Church most profoundly for the trust you vested in us. We vowed to be true to our duty on the day of our proclamation. Rest assured, we will work to fulfill this promise every moment.
We wish you all the members of the Church around the world all the best and blessed years!
Very truly yours,
Gloria Macapagal Arroyo
Republic of the Philippines
Office of the Vice President
July 21, 2004
Brother Erano G. Manalo
Executive Minister
Church of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo)
Dear Brother Erdy,
We join all the members of the church here and abroad in celebrating joyously its 90th year in the Philippines!
The Church through the years has made a great difference in the lives of Filipino people. It brought fervent spirituality to a vast number and upliftment to the underprivileged.
Its fervent emphasis on spirituality is remarkable for a church in modern times amidst deep-seated materialism.
The concern it has shown and reached far and wide. It crossed the Pacific and spread all across the globe. The spirituality and upliftment of the church has brought to the Philippines are now before all the peoples of the world.
Once again, our warmest greetings to all the brethren around the world!
Very truly yours,
Noli “Kabayan” De Castro
Church of Christ
95th anniversary
The White house
Washington
Brother Erano G. Manalo
Executive minister
Church of Christ
5225 Hagan road
Temple Hills, Maryland20748
Dear Brother Erano:
I am pleased to extend my congratulations as you celebrate the anniversary of your church. It is an important milestone, and you should be proud of your many years of faithful service.
On this occasion we are reminded of the abiding truth that each of us has the power to created better world for ourselves and our children when we do God’s work here on earth. I trust that your congregation’s good works will continue to restore kinship and strength to our communities and, in so doing, help lead our Nation toward a better, brighter day.
Sincerely,
Obama
Prime Minister . Premier Ministre
I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to everyone marking the 26th anniversary of Iglesia Ni Cristo - Church of Christ in Alberta and its 95th anniversary globally.
Over the years, Iglesia Ni Cristo – Church of Christ has served as a social and spiritual focal point for individuals and families united in their faith and commitment to the community. These significant milestones offer the chance to reflect upon the events that have shaped your congregation’s history, while celebrating the wonder and timeless of faith.
Please accept my best wishes for a most memorable celebration, as well as peace and happiness, now and in the future.
The Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper, P.C, M.P
Ottawa
2009
MalacananPalace
Manila
July 27, 2009
Brother Erano G. Manalo
Executive Minister
Iglesia Ni Cristo
#1 Central avenue, New Era
Quezon City
Dear Ka Erdy,
Happy 95th anniversary to Iglesia Ni Cristo.My family and I share with all the INC members here and abroad the joys of this celebration.
Warmest greetings to all INC ministers and leaders for their devotion and faithful service to their calling.
In 1914, Brother Felix Manalo began his great mission in the Philippines to fulfill God’s promise of salvation. In 1968, this mission reached the far west. Now it has spread all over the world and it has enjoyed almost a century of prosperous existence. The multiplication of INC membership and its buildings of worship throughout our country and elsewhere are proof of INC’s inspired success. Ka Erdy, together with the ministers and official of the INC, has been a constant partner of the government in our nation’s progress and social development.
Best wishes for the continued prosperity of INC in the country and the world.
Happy Iglesia Ni Cristo Day!
Gloria Macapagal Arroyo
Start at 6:20 of its 10:23 length time of the video
“Jesus said to be the Alpha and Omega, God said to be the Alpha
and the Omega, therefore Jesus is God!”
Is this kind of mind correct??
Christ said in Rev. 22:13
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.”
At the first place, we are not contrary to what Christ said, because it is recorded in the bible, it just DEPENDS TO ONE’S WHO READS AND GIVES HIS OWN INTERPRETATION.
Is this a proof that Christ is God? Let us see.
The meaning of “Alpha” and “Omega” (these are letters of the Greek alphabet) is simply “First” and “Last”. When Christ said that He is Alpha and Omega, the First and Last, the Scriptures made a distinction between God and Christ who are both First and Last—but of different category…
“God the Father , who is the source of all things…” (I Cor. 8:6) is of course “Alpha” or “First” “…when all things have been put under him, the Son himself will also come under him who has put all things under Him, in order that God may be all in all.” (I Cor. 15:28 The new testament in modern speech, Weymouth) clearly shows that God is “Omega” or “Last” because all, including the Son, Christ, will be subjected unto God, so that God may be all in all.
But what about Christ? Why is he also first and last?
Christ is First because he is the “firstborn of every creature”, not because he was created first, but the plan and purpose to create Christ was first and foremost in God’s mind. (I pet. 1:20; Romans 1:2-3) We also should take not what Apostle Paul says: “Christ is the visible representation of the invisible God…” Therefore,
Christ (the visible representation) is a creature (the firstborn) of God (the invisible).
Christ, again, is “the firstborn of all creation” is not the Creator and therefore not God. Christ is to judge the world in his second coming will Himself be subjected to God (the source of all things and therefore First) so that God will be all in all (and therefore Last) (II Tim. 4:1; I Cor. 15:27-28)
THEY SAID TO BE the ALPHA AND OMEGA, but it doesnt mean that THEY ARE ONE. or a proof that CHRIST IS GOD. That's how the people thinks as they were blinded by the formulation of doctrine inside their Church. But then, IS THERE ANYONE WHO REALLY KNOWS AND DEEPLY UNDERSTANDS THE DOCTRINE TRINITY?
Simple answer. None. Why???
A catholic priest said this:
“The trinity is a wonderful mystery. No one understands it. The most learned theologian, the holiest Pope, the greatest saint, all are as mystified by it as the child of seven. It is one of the things which we shall know only when we see God face to face.” (God and Myself: An Inquiry into the true religion, Martin J. Scott, p.118)
If the trinity is so mysterious and no one understands even theologians, POPES, and whatsoever, how could a MAN on the street understand it? Tsk. Tsk. There are people who defend their doctrines but doesnt really understands what their faith is. Like here in our country, it is claimed to be 90-98% of the population is of the dominant religion, QUESTION: Do they practice their faith? Another, DO THEY UNDERSTAND THE TEACHINGS OF THEIR CHURCH?
FACT: Jesus is the one who said this verse. He said “before Abraham was, I am”… And this was also a proof of others that jesus really existed before Abraham, means in the beginning.
QUESTION: Is this an evidence that Jesus have pre-existence? Or did Jesus Christ already exist in the beginning? According to the testimony of the apostles, what really existed in the beginning concerning Christ?
ANSWER: Well, let’s find out by reading the bible, let’s read acts 2:23 that says,
“This man, delivered up by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of god, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put him to death.”
Can anyone read that verse again? Okay?
FACT: It’s been testified that what existed in the beginning was the “foreknowledge of god” concerning Jesus Christ.
QUESTION: why did Jesus Christ say, “Before Abraham was I am”? Does this mean that he had pre-existence or that he had already existed even before Abraham was born?
ANSWER: Let’s read I pet. 1:20 that says,
“Foreknown indeed before the foundation of the world,
he has been manifested in the last times for your sakes.”
Even before the creation of the world, Christ was already foreknown by god. That testimony is clear that what existed even before is the plan or idea in gods mind to create him. And this idea concerning the creation of Christ did not remain only as a plan of god but was also promised by him, let’s read Rom. 1:2-3 that says,
“Which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy scriptures, concerning his son,
who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh.”
FACT: Christ did not exist before Abraham existed; rather, it was Abraham who existed before Christ, let’s look it up to Gal. 3:16 that says,
“Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He does not say, ‘And to seeds’,
as of many, but as one, ‘and to your seed’, who is Christ.”
Christ is the seed of Abraham, which is why it is wrong to assert that he existed before Abraham did. In other words, again, even before god created the world, he had already planned that there would be a messiah or Christ. But there was no Christ yet in existence in the beginning, contrary to what the proponents of the Christ-is-god doctrine would like us to believe, for he came to exists only when he was born of his mother like what was in gal. 4:4 that says,
“But when the fullness of the time had come, god sent forth his son,
born of a woman, born under the law”
Others believe that only god says “I am”, in other words, they believe that because jesus also said “I am” like what god said, it is automatically jesus is god, so, the equation is jesus=god.
QUESTION: But what would happen if we believe that who says “I am” in the whole content of the bible means it is god or refers to god?
ANSWER: We must remember that not only god who says “I am”, let’s read judges 13:11 that says,
"And Manoah arose, and went after his wife, and came to the man, and said unto him, Art thou the man that spakest unto the woman? And he said, I am."
And let’s read also john 9:9 that says,
"Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I AM he.”
So, let’s go again to the question, do only god says “I am”? Meaning if we believe that Jesus Christ is god only because he uttered the words “I am”, It means also that manoa in judges 13:11 and the blind man in john 9:9 would also be our god or gods.
exodus 3:14
QUESTION: if we believe that Jesus is the Jehovah who spoke in exodus 3:14 because jehovah uttered the statement “I AM” were true, we must accept that aside from having a Jesus who is Jehovah, there is another Jesus, who is the servant of Jehovah. Why?
ANSWER: going back to exodus, chapter 3, Jehovah or YHWH, in English word, lord, introduced himself as the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in verse 15.however, in the New Testament, the same god or Jehovah, was introduced by peter as the one who glorified Jesus, his servant. This testimony as it is written in Acts 3:13:
“The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the god of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered up and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.”
FACT: If Jesus were the god who spoke to Moses in the burning bush, then who would be his servant by the name of Jesus in Acts 3:13? Are we prepared to accept that there are two jesuses, one who is god of Abraham and one who is called the servant of the god of Abraham? Is there such a thing in the Bible as “Jesus who is the servant of Jesus”???
Well, we already know the answer, it is none. The Jesus who is the servant of god is truly different from the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
QUESTION: so, does the “I AM” statement make Christ our god, the father? Well, THINK AGAIN…
“Jesus is savior, God is savior, and therefore Jesus is GOD!!”
Is this kind of mind correct??
Well, let us see. Question of nonmembers, If jesus Christ is not God, why do we need him if we already have the father for salvation? And as INC believes he’s just a man (only in nature, as what the bible teaches and we worship him as God commands), HOW CAN A MAN GIVE SALVATION?
Okay. It is true that God the father is Savior (Isa. 45:21-22) and that Jesus Christ is also savior (John 4:42; Eph. 5:23). However, to assume that Christ is also God because he is savior is to ignore the teachings of the holy scriptures on how he became SAVIOR!
It is recorded:
“So God has brought Jesus, one of David's descendants, to Israel to be its Savior, as he promised.” Acts 13:23
“Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.” Acts 5:31
Clearly, therefore, Christ is savior because he was exalted and made as such by GOD. Now, if Christ’s being made savior made him God, then comes the absurd conclusion that Christ became God because he was made as such by another God.
The Holy Scriptures also teaches that Christ himself needed salvation from God (Heb. 5:7). Could this have meant that one God “offered up prayers and supplications” to another God “who was able to save him from death?” Surely not, as this directly contradicts the doctrine of the bible that “there is one God, the father, of whom are all things” (I Cor. 8:6).
To further ask, “Why do WE NEED JESUS IF WE ALREADY HAVE THE FATHER FOR SALVATION?” and “HOW CAN A MAN (Jesus) give SALVATION” is to overlook, to say the least, the biblical pronouncements on the manner through which the father will grant salvation. The father, who alone is God (John 17:1, 3) will give salvation through “THE MAN” He has ordained, Jesus Christ. The bible explains:
“And now—all glory to him who alone is god, who saves us through Jesus Christ our Lord…” Jude 1:24, Living Bible
“because He [God] has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.” Acts 17:31
As jesus was ordained or appointed to be “the man” through whom God will judge the world, it is him (Christ) who will come on the “end of the age” (Matt. 24:3) to bring judgment on all (Jude 1:14-15). Jesus will grant salvation or the right to “inherit the kingdom” of his sheep (Matt. 25:31-34) or the members of his church (John 10:16, Acts 20:28, Lamsa Translation; Eph. 5:23) because God GAVE HIM THE AUTHORITY TO GIVE ETERNAL LIFE (John 17:2). Indeed, Christ became Savior by virtue of the authority given to him by the father.
So, if there are similarities of things or persons, is that mean THEY ARE ONE? Example, you have a identical brother, means your physical appearance of your brother and yourself are the same, is that mean you and your brother are just one BEING? Or PERSON??
Think of it. About God and Christ, because they have some similarities, others mistaken Jesus as GOD. But the things is, is that belief BIBLICAL? Or they give some bible verses and explanations to point out that IT IS BIBLICAL?? Tsk. Tsk.
The End of my Search for the Real and True Light by Theophilus Darku
(LIFE AND PRIESTHOOD)
Among the classical pieces of the masters, Handel’s “Messiah” has always been food for thought for me. The part that engaged my attention the most, was one taken from Isaiah 9:2 "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light;...". I have come to love and play this piece very often without recognizing the impact it would have on my life in these last days. Another portion, from Isaiah 9:6, also got my attention. It reads, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." This verse eventually made me eager to seek the light diligently until I found it. But let me touch on this later on.
Right now let me introduce myself. The name is Theophilus William Darku, born in Cape CoastGhana, West Africa on June 27, 1927. I come from a Catholic home with five other brothers who are all Catholics. My father died a Catholic, last February at the age of 73. My mother who is 74 years old is still living. I was a Catholic priest from 1953 to 1973. Let me interest you with a brief story about my first name. When I was born, my parents found out that I was sick. My mother told me I never cried even I was hungry; I never showed signs of something being wrong with me. I just lay there. This disturbed my parents very much; and as all parents would do, they tried everything and consulted doctors to get me well.
Eventually on July 28, 1928 they gave me up, and took me to the church to be baptized, so that I would die a baptized Catholic. The old priest was amazed when the story of my sickness was related to him. He remarked “God loves this child that he preserved him till this day of baptism.” So the baptismal name he gave me was Theophilus, meaning lover of God. And that was how I, Theophilus William Darku, came to be nicknamed “God’s animal” when I started school.
I attended St. Francis Catholic Elementary School. Then in 1942 I desired to become a Catholic priest. I went to seminary’s secondary school—ST. Theresa’s Seminary. It was wartime then, and the seminary was used as a strong hideout by high officials of the British army. As a result, the seminary was moved to join St. Augustine’s secondary school. It was at St. Augustine’s that I finished my secondary education in 1947. In 1948 I went to St. Teresa’s seminary to study philosophy for two years, and theology for four years.
On Dec. 8, 1953 I was ordained a Catholic Priest at St. Francis cathedral which is in CapeCoast, my home town. My first assignment was to go back to the seminary and teach Latin. I taught in the seminary till Sep. 1954 when I was appointed assistant pastor to work with an old priest. I soon found out that I had to cater to 36 outlying towns and villages which were several miles away from the central station. Very soon the number rose to 72 when another section of the region was added. I was incharge of all Catholic schools and churches in that region. I visited and stayed in each town or village once every two months. In 1958 I was transferred to another region where this time I had 60 towns and villages under my ministerial domain.
Let me mention a few of the many things I did in these towns and villages. First, I was the ass. Manager of the Catholic schools in that region. I paid the teachers salaries at designated centers; set up bookstores for the sales of school books, equipment and church materials; made a quarterly accounting on equipment and maintenance grants received from the government; checked school and church reports, records involving teachers, students and cathechists, always taking proper action when necessary to correct and improve the prestige of the schools and churches as well. I also officiated at church services—baptizing, hearing confessions, performing marriages and burial services. In short, I was doing everything a Catholic priest does. In june 1960 I was appointed chaplain to a TeacherTrainingCollege, where I also taught mathematics, history, religion and did other duties as part-time chaplain for Ghana Army, Navy, and Air force. In 1965 my bishop sent me to visit Rome, Amsterdam, and England, but through special contacts and arrangements I was able to travel parts of Italy, Switzerland, Germany, France, Holland and England.
Then in August 1966 my bishop asked me if I would like to go to a university in the United States and study business Administration. He also asked me if I was willing to do parish work while pursuing my studies in the United States. I naturally agreed to whatever he suggested because I was eager to get out of the country. On Oct. 17, 1966, I arrived at St. Rita’s church in Indianapolis. After the formal introductions and other such things I was shown my place and work.
In 1968 I landed in the IndianaUniversity school of business, where I got my Master’s degree in Business administration. In 1970 I decided to join the Dominican Priests, so that when I went home in the country, I would be able to start a Dominican house there. Since in my country all the native priests are secular priests, I thought my going back as a Dominican would give aspirants to the priesthood a choice between secular and regular priesthood. My hopes were shattered when I found out that my bishop had written the Dominicans not to accept me.
I used to spend my summers preaching in the northeastern states of the U.S to raise funds for the churches in my country. It was during one of these summers in 1971 that I questioned my bishop, when he visited the church I was working about his letter to the Dominicans. He spoke many lies to me, and finally I told him that if I couldn’t go to the Dominicans I would never work for him, and I would leave the priesthood. For a time I felt disillusioned. Human elements have crept into this work. I became aware that the churches are no longer for our good but for our goods.This bothered me very much. I decided to serve my God not according to the scheming and money-making devices which are a departure from the so called truth. Commercialism in the church, and the special attention its fluent members received, became apparent to me.
In Aug. 1973, a friend of mine, who is now in the University of California in Sta. Cruz invited me to spend my vacation with him and find time to acquire a teaching assignment in the University there. I considered his suggestion and so, in Sep. 1973 I arrived in San Francisco in the first leg of my trip to Santa Cruz. Then, I changed my mind about the continuing journey. I told my friend that I would rather stay in San Francisco.
In the meantime, I had written to St. Rita’s Church in Indianapolis that I was no longer in the priesthood and that I was looking for a job in San Francisco. I encountered many obstacles here in my efforts to find a job. Eventually, through the enthusiasm of dome ex-Catholic priest in San Francisco, I agreed to accept any job until a better opportunity could present itself. So in May 1974 I started working at Bechtel Corporation. Things were not good for me and there were still people who looked to me for help and advice. As a result I stopped communicating with people who have known me. Only my parents and brothers had my address and knew my whereabouts.
In the midst of all disappointments, I decided I would not belong to any church anymore until I have ended my search for the light. So I read my bible at home, stayed out of trouble and communicated with Jesus. But then a verse in the Bible bothered me, Jesus said in Matt. 18:20, "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.". this text engaged my attention for a long time and it became the reason why I would attend any church on Sunday, in order to be assured of Jesus being in the midst of the gathering. But then, I objected, because some of these gatherings are not really in the name of Jesus as most of the time the hidden aim is in the name of money. I concluded that my prayers still lacked the proper power, but I continued with my search for the real light, until something happened to change my life.
It was June 1976 when a friend casually told me, “Why not go to the Orient for a meaningful life?” I said, “What do you mean by that?” She said, “You have been a Catholic priest for 20 years now and you are no longer a celibate. Why don’t you find a wife from the Orient? Orientals are noted to be very good wives.”. I told her I was not interested, but I have put before the Lord to give me a good and faithful wife. My friend gave me the address of a lady—Eugenia B. Banares, After much hesitation I wrote to the lady in Hongkong. Very soon some interest was fostered and the line of communication was opened and became frequent. In 1977 we talked about marriage but then there were the usual obstacles from the Immigration. Since we are not married yet, she couldn’t come to the U.S.A I was not an American Citizen so I had to wait till I became one. At the end of March 1978 I was called by the Immigration office to appear in court in San Francisco for my citizenship. Eugenia, whom I call jeannie, has been praying for this too.
Jeannie would be coming to the USA and I must find a way to make more money. I decided to write a request of transfer from my present job, to a better one. I was confident that with a new resume I would get one of those top jobs though it might take me away from California. Everything was set to go. Then came the spoiler. On april 21, 1978 I was told that according to my request for transfer I had been scheduled for an interview for a new job, and I was given three days to decide if I wanted it. I didn’t know iw as taking a step that was going to influence and change my future. At the same time I was thinking of the copies of the resume I was ready to send out. I called up Jeannie that night to ask her to keep on praying.
(TURNING POINT)
On april 25 I went for my interview for the new job. It turned out right but then I had to go and see the person who was given me a detailed description of the things involved in that work. The date was set for the 27th and 28h of April. On the 27th I went to see Brother Raul Nepumoceno, the person who was leaving the job I was supposed to take. After describing everything he asked If I would take it. I told him I would. Then came the switch. I told him I used to be a Catholic priest. I told him I just clung to my Jesus—my God and all. Then came the retort: jesus is not God. I said, “Look here, this is what I have been taught in the Catholic Church and this is what everybody believes in the Catholic Church.” Then he said, “The minister of my church can prove to you from the bible that Jesus is not God but a mediator.” I told him I could also prove from the bible that Jesus is God. So he invited me to visit his church on Sunday, the 14th of may.
After the worship service I went to see Bro. Rizalino Santos who was going to give me proofs that Jesus Christ is not god. At first I thought I could easily refute his arguments with two verses from the Bible to show that Jesus is God—Isaiah 9:6 and John 1:14. However, he took the wind out of my sails when right at the start he quoted I Cor. 4:6, which admonishes not to go beyond what is written. How I admire the calmness and dedication of Bro. Santos that day. I was convinced that Jesus Christ is not God . he proved it beyond doubt and I was ready to get up and leave, when he said, “Now let me show you who Jesus Christ really is, from the bible.” I was really amazed. My treasured verse, Isaiah 9:6, couldn’t prove the divinity of Christ. I, therefore, asked Bro. Santos if I could get his notes on all the proofs that Jesus is not God. He told me he would going to Oakland for a ministerial class that Tuesday, and if I was willing, he would pick me up for the class. I agreed wholeheartedly. After the class, he suggested that he come to my Apartment on Saturdays for Bible study on Doctrines. I told him it was alright to me.
Later, out of pride I said to myself “If Christ is not God, so what? I am not going to attend any church again. I can stay home and just read my bible and stay close to my God.” I told myself I would attend one last doctrinal lesson and that would be final.
Before that, however while reading God’s message, the magazine of the Church of Christ, I was struck by John 10:9—cited in one of the articles—wherein Jesus says, I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.. Then I asked my self, how does one enter? (The answer to this was revealed to me later in that last class which I promised my self to attend.) Then I found a stronger power in my old text—in Matt. 18:20 "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.", Could this possibly happen in the gathering of the Church of Christ? More curious now, I became wager to be in the gathering.
It was during this class that I met Bro. Fernando Ibarra, who, with untiring efforts, kindled my interest in the Church of Christ and continued persistently with many calls inviting me to attend diff. functions and worship services here and there. I can truly say that Bro. Ibarra, ahs been instrumental in my conversion to the Church of Christ. We used to chat on the power of Christ that I find in the gathering together of the members. At times when I didn’t want anybody bother me, Bro. Ibarra would insist on picking me up for a worship service, a church dedication, or a baptismal service somewhere. I am grateful that God has used him as the instrument for me to see the great light I read about in Isaiah 9:2.
On the 26th of Aug. 1978, I was baptized in Redwood City. It was a real happy day for me, to realize how all my sins were forgiven and that the Good Lord had turned a new leaf for me.
As soon as I got to my apartment I phoned my cousin who was studying at the ChristianTheoligicalCenter in Indianapolis, Indiana. I told him with a shout, “Hey! I have found the light.” He asked, “Where?” I said, “In this Church of Christ.” He said, “Don’t deceive yourself, all churches are made for money.” I said, “Not this one. You have to see it for yourself.” Then he asked whether the church has any literature. I said there is the magazine called PASUGO or GOD’S MESSAGE. He said, “Send it over a thorough perusal.” So, I mailed him the PASUGO issues from Jan. to July. Anyway he has promised to come in Dec. to see the Church for himself. I then called my youngest brother who is studying in IndianaStateUniversity and told him about the good news. He is also coming in Dec. this year to see for himself. I then wrote to my girlfriend Jeannie telling her I have found the true light and that my search is over. I even gave her the address of Bro. Pastor palacios in Hongkong. She went immediately and I got a postcard from her saying that they have started the Bible Study sessions. I called another friend telling that I have found the light. She said, “You have now fallen from grace to grass.” I said, “It is the other way ground. You are still in the grass and I have gone up now. I know because it is in the bible, always—come to the truth and the truth shall make you free.”
Now I thank the Almighty for leading me in these last days to the true light. In my heart I feel sad for my friends who embraced the Catholic faith but, because of pride, fail to make a true search for the light. I have compassion for the other people in my country who will embrace this light with joy and enthusiasm, but now have no one to bring this to them. I am sure that it’s God will that they should be saved too, and a way will be provided by the Almighty himself. No one knows his designs.
For my brothers and sisters in the Church of Christ I say, hold fast to your membership because “” (I pet. 5:8). As I said, there is sufficient power in the gathering together(Mt. 18:20). Stay with the Church always, for Christ is coming. We are in the last days, you know!
Now I wish and pray that more people will be called by God and given to Christ to be saved. Outside the body of Christ—the church of Christ, there is no salvation—the bible says it clearly. Be saved and enjoy eternal bliss. This is coming from a former Catholic Priest. I was a priest for twenty years and I know what I am saying. It’s all in the bible—the inspired book of God. Outside the bible, its all human talk—not for your good but for your goods.
“In almost every part of the country now stands an INC church. … Abroad, the INC faith has also spread fast and wide. Several INC chapels and congregations can now be found in key cities of the U.S, in 
