Former Aglipayan Priest

My Last Days towards Enlightenment

My name is Perpetuo Valerde and l come from the locale of Bucal, Cavite. I was an Aglipayan Priest for twenty six years. At the age of fifty seven, i am now secure of my enlightenment and of tracing the right path which i would like to relate to you, as well as my experiences during my childhood, priesthood, and my having been into this Church.

My father is Tiburcio Valverde, also an Aglipayan Priest for forty years and my mother is Josefa Blanco, from Botolan, Zambales. In an old big house in front of the Aglipayan Church in Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite, I was born on the 4th of August, 1925.

I grew up assisting my father in administering masses. I used to sing during the mass, ring the bells for which i received one centavo after pulling the ropes. I remember it was not easy to pull the ropes to ring the bells, for each ceremony required a different mode of bell-ringing. Thus, there was an unusual rhythm for a funeral mass, another distinct measure for marriage ceremony and another for baptism. My fees appeared insufficient so my father just trained me as his altar boy wherever he was assigned by the Superior Priests.

From Grades 1-4, I studied in Binakayan Barrio School, and in Aguinaldo Elementary School at Grades 5-7. My first year in the secondary level was in Imus Institute, and I transferred to Iba (Zambales) High School when my father was reassigned to Amongan, Iba in that province.

I was seventeed years old when the Second World War broke out. As a guerilla intelligence officer, I transmitted informations from the Japanese garrisons to my comrades, my co guerilla officers. in the mountains.

In 1945, my father got sick, and he died an active priest on July 24, 1946. Just a couple of months later, my mother also succumbed to her death. One advice of my father always struck my mind then. He always discouraged me to follow his footsteps, refraining me to join the priesthood. But, thinking that it would bring me nearer to the Lord, I disregarded my father's discouragement. Thus, in late 1946, under the Philippine Aglipayan Church's supreme Bishop Isabelo delos Reyes, I acquired my special tutelage. (He personally taught me, being a son of a priest, the ministerial doctrines of the church administration). I lived with him during my entire schooling.

In December that year, Bishop Segundo Gatdula, pleaded Supreme Bishop Delos Reyes for an assistant in administering the diocese. Although I was trained for only a month, I was appointed as his co-priest. Lately, I learned that the bishop only wanted to escape from displaying his robe in leading funerals in the streets.

Maragondon, Cavite was my first assignment (December 1946), as assistant priest to Bishop Gatdula. This was the first time I wrote a robe, as my father did. Until 1949, i assisted my superior priest in the benediction of the dead and in officiating mass and baptism, on my belief that it was righteous service towards salvation. Aside from Maragondon, Ternate was also added to my jurisdiction.

Before the year ended, I was ordered to proceed to Amongan, Iba, Zambales, as the local parish priest. The place was memorable to me because my father died a priest in Amongan. I administered the church in that locality for four years.

In 1954, I went back as ordered to Maragondon diocese as the assigned priest up to 1957. As the parish priest, i applied all the methods I learned to mingle with small people belittled by the society. I preached and went along with the outlaws and most wanted persons, bringing them to my church's way of life, all of which I thought would deliver me to God's place someday.

For the first time in the history of Aglipay Church, I did a very serious deviation from its practices. I permitted the burial of a non Alipayan at the Aglipayan cemetery without the benifit of my benediction inside the church. This resulted in my superior's disappointment. I was suspended for that reason for eight years (1957-1965). Hence, I was forced to work at the farm to earn our daily living. I made up my mind that I wouldnt ask for any assistance from the superior Bishops.

In 1960, I met Concepcion Andaya, who later on became my wife. Three years later, my first child was born. She was named Gloria, meaning a glory to God, for he gave us a healthy child. In 1966, Supreme Bishop De los Reyes recalled me on duty. I was sent to Atimonan, Quezon for more than two months. Later on, he sent me to Cavite (1970-1972) as an assistant priest. Then, Sto. Nino Marikina, Rizal as an assistant priest to Bishop Gregorio Delos Reyes. In 1973-1976, I was assigned at Pila, Laguna, where i was instrumental in the reactivation of the Cursillo movement.

Before 1976 ended, a ray of life came to my life. I met Bro. Roberto Bumagat, a deacon in the Iglesia ni Cristo (Church of Christ) from San Pablo City who was reconstructing and repainting a house near our church. He invited me to the Church's pamamahayag (Bible Exposition) at the Pila House of Worship. I accepted the courteous invitation, but it was a certain Bro. Eusebio, also a deacon of Pila, who continuously accompanied me to finish the weeklong Pamamahayag. Bro. Eusebio lived near house.

At the start of 1977, I became so sick and was eventually relieved from service to rest. I went home to Bucal, Maragondon Cavite, lived there with the family, for my wife hailed from this barrio. My heart swayed back to Aglipayan activities once again. Despite my being so ill, I still could manage to support the church. This, I thought, was my first test.

In May 1979, I was again invited by a Church of Christ member, Bro. Bienvenito Itoc, head deacon of Mabacao, Maragondon, Cavite to attend Pamamahayag officiated by Bro. Jose Crisostomo, the minister assigned at Naic, Cavite. I be tracing the light which once awakened me.

What impressed me during this exposition was the manner in which the preacher delivered his sermon. Everything he said was based on the bible. The next nights were surely my way to enlightenment. I was clarified then that not all preachers are of God, that there's only one true church in the world today and the true God is the Father.

May 22, 1979 vividly remarked my having been called. Being enlightened during the preceeding nights, I believed that I was being brought to the righteous service. On this day, Bro. Esteban Angon, head deacon of Bucal, visited my place and introduced to me Bro. Rodante Elevado, the newly assigned evangelical worker of Bucal. My formal instruction in God's true words was begun.

My enlightenment continued little by little. I realized that a real preacher must be commissioned by God and that there's only one true Church as Matthew recorded; this is Christ's Church (Mt. 16:18). This Church is called by the Apostles as "Church of Christ" (Rom. 16:16). I also learned that God is not composed of three divine persons, and that Jesus who is his son, is a man and not God.

Not a few persecutions and tests have I met from my loved ones, including my wife and my daughter. They discouraged me to continue my attendance at the bible study and at the Sunday and Thursday worship services. The Church worker, however, enlightened me that to be a true disciple of our Lord, one should endure all those that I was experiencing. On June 30, God permitted me to be baptized in Naic, Cavite.

Let me note that today, I am an old and sick man. Yet, I firmly believe that God called me to join his fold as a chosen son in these last days before i am finally laid to eternal rest. One of these days, Im sure I will die, but im happy. My last breath will be a beautiful last breath because I am sure of my fate.

I pray to our Lord that my beloved wife Concepcion and daughter Gloria may be enlightened as I have been. I wish to extend my thanks to all who were instrumental in my conversion. And to the Lord, Praise him for everything!

source: Pasugo Issue March-April 1982

[Video] converts: an ex catholic nun

Ive found the video of the story of a former Catholic Nun that was featured in the program "Ang Iglesia ni Cristo".

Here it is:

Converts: Ex Catholic Priest turn minister

My Quest for the Truth, the way and the Life
by Beda Aboloc

(right click photos then select open link in new tab)

source: Pasugo Issue July 1964

Bro. Beda Aboloc became a minister and he also became as editor in chief of the Pasugo Magazine in November 1973-1974. But before that, he was an ordained Catholic Priest who latter quit Priesthood and was enlightened about the teachings of the Church of Christ.

thanks to bro. Joel Jamias for these scans!

Converts: At last, he is called after how many years

photo soon.

There is so many nonmember who's like this, attending worship services in the INC, and participating in activities whenever they are invited, for a long time, but really doesnt still understand teachings and called by God. But before they regret in the end, it becomes a happy moment because God love them, and God able to call them here in the true church...

I could not deny the truth
By Edwin Wilson

I am now a member of the local congregation of Orange Park in Florida, USA, currently serving as a deacon and the president of the Buklod organization. But without the mercy of God and the patience and the perseverance of a minister of the Iglesia ni Cristo, I would still be wandering and searching for the true Church.
I had been attending the Iglesia ni Cristo in the local congregation of Jacksonville, Florida off and on since 1979. I had many friends there and usually went to see them or at their invitation. I attended Bible studies, grand evangelical missions, and worship services but only when I was invited by a friend. But it seemed that every time I went, I heard something that turned me off. Obviously, I did not want to hear the message that the minister was trying to relate to me, so I would go home and not return for weeks or months. That went on for about 23 years.
Then, I was invited to a birthday party of a friend's son. I was happy to attend since I liked this friend of mine very much. It was there where I first met Brother Wilfredo Santos, a minister of the Iglesia ni Cristo. He asked me why I did not attend worship service. I told him that I was raised a Methodist and that I did not really believe that his Church was the only way to achieve salvation. And besides, I had a job where I traveled five days a week leaving home Monday mornings and returning Friday afternoons, and occasionally traveling to Europe for two or four weeks at a time. So, there was no way that I could attend worship service in his Church, because on the weekends I had to catch up on my chores at home and spend time with my family.

Brother Santos looked me straight in the eye and said, "Brother, what you need is one good reason to come to the worship service, you have so many reasons not to attend. Please come tomorrow and give me a chance to tell you who we are, what we believe and why we believe as we do. Let me explain these things to you and then if you decide that our Church is not for you, you can go your way."

I was taken aback by his complete sincerity. I could tell that he believed with all his heart in his message and in the Church he belonged to. I thought to myself, I have to give this man a chance to express his beliefs. Any person that is sincere in his beliefs surely deserves a chance.
I attended that Sunday and listened to the lesson. Brother Santos approached me after the worship service and asked if I had any questions. I did and he promptly answered them with verses from the Bible. I attended for three months without missing, a worship service and then I signed up for instruction in biblical doctrines. Brother Santos started with Lesson one and after four or five lessons, he could see my eagerness to hear more. He told me to call him anytime I wanted to hear a Bible lesson and he would come and administer the next lesson to me.

I would write down the verses in the lesson and go home and read them over and over. For the first time in my life, I actually enjoyed reading the bible. Reading the bible became a pleasure instead of obligation. Once i had heard all the lessons, there was no way that i could deny the Iglesia Ni Cristo. I could hardly wait to be baptized and become a member. I was baptized on the 8th of December 2002 by Bro. Santos in the local congregation of Jacksonville.

I will always indebted to God who called me through a Church of Christ minister who showed me his genuine concern for my soul. I will look forward to the day of salvation and will continue to serve God until death.

Pasugo issue April 2007

Converts: Former Anglican Priest

Why I joined Iglesia Ni Cristo

by Innocente E. Okekeh, Ph.D., Th.D.

It was in the course of my studies in the Philippines from 1974-1984—during which I earned Bachelor of divinity from Union theological Seminary (1978); Master of Arts in education at the Philippine Christian University (1980); Doctor of philosophy in educational management in Centro Escolar Universiy (1983)—when I began attending worship services of the Iglesia ni Cristo in places like Sampaloc, Manila and Cavite. I did it on my own volition. Nobody in or outside the Philippines coerced, compelled or even introduced me to the Iglesia ni Cristo.

So why did I leave my former church and join Iglesia ni Cristo? First, I was spiritually convinced that the Iglesia ni Cristo is the only one true church. It does not hide the truth. It does not add or subtract teachings from the bible. It is not a church wherein doctrines and practices are a mixture of beliefs where thing can go in. The Iglesia ni Cristo is unique, the only church I have seen in my life that is truly biblical. However, one thing that I have noticed in the Iglesia ni Cristo is that there is no discrimination among themselves, even among ministers, and among the foreigners, that is why they have houses of worship and congregations even in many African countries including Nigeria.

I also noticed that the worship service of this church is free from showmanship. The method of worship and thanksgiving is very orderly. Each member is well taken care and if any would fail to attend the worship service, he is visited by his overseer. Pastoral visits are widely practiced, starting from the district minister down to local officers.

The Iglesia ni Cristo does not worship idols or graven images. There is nothing like human tradition imposed in worship. During worship services, members participate actively in singing holy hymns,respond in prayers, listen attentively to the sermon, and voluntary give offerings. The whole worship service up to the time of dismissal is short but sufficient unlike in other churches where people stay from 8 am to 2pm , which is very noticeable in some so-called evangelical churches causing complaints from their members.

Another reason why I left Anglican Church, is because of its tolerance of unbiblical practices like divorce, consecration of women as priests, and same sex marriage. Moreover, the political problems, and unity I observe in my former church are very discouraging.

One major component of my conversion to the Iglesia ni Cristo is its clear and precise doctrines regarding the true nature of God and Jesus Christ. Unlike other churches that have confusing doctrines such as trinity, the Iglesia ni Cristo upholds these biblical truths. God is Spirit in his state of being, which means that he has no flesh and bones; Christ is man in his state being, meaning he has flesh and bones; God is immortal, while Christ experienced death, the cessation of breath; God has no beginning, while Christ came from God; God does not recognize any other God besides himself, while Christ recognizes the only true god as his god; God does not get tired or weary, while Christ got tired; and finally, God is not born of any woman but Christ was born of a woman and he cannot perform anything without the Almighty God empowering or enabling him.

I hope I have shared enough of my testimony so that the readers who are not yet members of the Iglesia ni Cristo, would also join this Church like what I did.

Editors Note:

Born in Nigeria in July 25,1945, Brother Innocente E. Okekeh is a former Anglican Priest from Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria. He first came to the Philippines in 1974 to pursue his studies and learned more than he expected.

source: Pasugo Issue November 2009

Converts: A kind of solution behind persecutions

The author mentioned this:

“Before attending the worship service, I would leave the house wearing casual clothes, but would change into proper attire inside my car.”

This scene was from, I think happened in the past and still happening in these times. Even before an interested listener who wants to join the Church of Christ or new members encounters persecution especially from their loved ones, goes a solution like this for them to go attend worship services of the INC. They make a way for them to continue their membership in the church even though the people around them (family, relatives, friends and etc.) hinder and persecute in doing what they want in achieving salvation…

I salute those who discovered the truth that they fight and stand for it, in their membership or in joining the true Church of Christ.

the author (center) with her family

I found peace with God

Veronica Ortega

I was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on Jan. 8, 1960. I grew up in the Kalihi Valley of Oahu with my Portuguese mother, my Hawaiian Portuguese father, an older brother, and a younger sister.

Before I joined the Church of Christ, I was a devout Catholic. I served as a lector assisting the priest. I was a religious education teacher for pre-schoolers and kindergartens and I was even a Eucharistic minister for the sick. Yet, in spite of all my activeness, I felt an emptiness inside and still found myself longing for true and meaningful relationship with God.

Then, in 1992, I was introduced to Sister Esteher de la cruz, a member of the Church of Christ. She frequently invited me to bible studies, but I always refused. She was, however, persistent and she showed me some verses in the bible that were inspiring.

My eyes began to open, particularly with the verses that warned against worshiping idols. It dawned on me that the Catholic church uses idols, images, and statues in its services. From there, I began to wonder whether or not the Catholic Church was indeed the true church.

I decided to search for the truth, and with the guidance of Sister Esther, I continued my bible lessons with the Church of Christ and attended worship services. During this time, however, I suddenly encountered persecutions from my father, who is a devout Catholic.

Before attending the worship service, I would leave the house wearing casual clothes, but would change into proper attire inside my car. When my father discovered what I was doing, he asked me to move out. Yet, even that did not stop me from attending the worship services and finishing my lessons in biblical doctrines. Finally, in October 1993, I was baptized in the local congregation of Waipahu and at last, I found peace with God!

Several years later, a deaconess from the local congregation of Honolulu, inspired me to become an officer in the Church of Christ. I felt God calling me to become a deaconess. I was also hoping that God would call my husband to become a deacon. He accepted and we both performed as deacon and deaconess in the local congregation of New Era. We have two children and live a happy and meaningful life. We are currently registered in the local congregation of Seattle, Washington in the ecclesiastical district of Pacific Northwest.

In May 2005, I had the opportunity to travel with my family to the Philippines. While visiting a town in Ilocos Norte, I got to know some of the villagers. Because of my desire to share my faith wherever I am, I spoke to a minister from the nearby local congregation of Lanao, Bangui and we were able to hold a Bible study in that area. Even though Im no longer there, I hope and pray for the success of that work.

Although my father is still a devout Catholic, he has stopped persecuting me after seeing the positive changes of my life. Now, he even encourages me to bring my sister, who is not a member, to Church of Christ activities so she can too have positive experiences. It is my goal someday to bring all my loved ones into the fold and bear more fruits. I am thankful to our Almighty God for showing me the way to the Church of Christ.

Pasugo March 2007

Converts: Another "ex-Catholic priest"

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 Coast Ghana, 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 Cape Coast, 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 Teacher Training College, 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 Indiana University 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 27^th and 28h of April. On the 27^th 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 14^th 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 26^th 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 Christian Theoligical Center 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 Indiana State University 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.

source: Pasugo issue March-April 1979

Converts: an ex-Catholic priest

I was ordained as a CATHOLIC priest
by Teodoro Dizon

I am TEODORO G. DIZON from the Locale of Miami, Florida. I was born in Camiling Tarlac, Philippines, to a family of practising Catholics. At the age of 11, I became an altar boy, assisting priests on many Catholic activites like fiestas, masses and other religious celebrations. I observed the works and sacrifices of the priests in serving the people. Drawn to this kind of service of being close to people, I made up my mind to become a priest and, at the age of 14, entered the seminary in Pangasinan, Philippines.

It was in my fifth year in high school (equivalent to first year in college at that time) when I heard about Brother Felix Y. Manalo and the Igesia Ni Cristo(Church of Christ). The priest mockingly said that, upon the demise of Brother Manalo, the Iglesia ni Cristo would vanish. I had the impression then that the members of this Church were unified only because of the dictates of Brother Manalo, which is why people, including me, referred to them as members of the "Iglesia ni Manalo" (Church of Manalo).

I was ordained as a Catholic priest on April 1, 1962. My first assignment as a new priest was in Concepcion, Tarlac. It was there where I received a call from a minister of the Iglesia ni Cristo, inviting me to a Bible study and discussion. I tried to ask permission from my superiors but was told not to go. Now I realize that, even then, I was being called to the true Church, for although I was not able to respond to that invitation, I was really interested to learn more about this Church.

In 1967, while I was assigned in Luisita, Tarlac, I was chosen to be sent to study in Rome. I was there for two years, studying Pastoral Theology and completing the degree of Licentiate in Sacred Theology. From Rome, I went to the United States in 1970 and became assistant parish priest in one of the parishes in the diocese of Broolyn, New York. In 1976, I applied to be a U.S. Navy Chaplain.


I had a second encounter with the Iglesia ni Cristo in 1978 when I was assigned to the naval training center in Orlando, Florida as a chaplain in the navy housing compound. There I met and became close friends with Brother Romeo Manalaysay, then head deacon of the Orlando congregation, and his wife Ligaya. I even let them use the navy chapel for their worship services when their congregation did not yet have permanent place. At that time, Brother Lorenzo de Vera, the minister from Jacksonville, Florida, was one of the ministers being sent to officiate the worship services. Since I was responsible for opening and closing the chapel, I attended the worship services. During those times, I felt the call of God working in me and my belief in Christ as God was changing. Nevertheless, I argued and debated with Brother de Vera and another minister, Brother Dominador Santos, on certain religious issues. As my knowledge of the true teachings of God increased, I continued attending the worship services faithfully. I even had a chance to meet the late Brother Cipriano Sandoval during one of the special occasions of the Church.

I was subsequently assigned to Guam, where I continued attending the worship services of the Iglesia ni Cristo when, at the same time, leading and saying mass as a navy chaplain. From Guam, I was assigned to Barstow, California, where I met Brother Reynaldo Valdez, the minister assigned in Riverside locale at that time. After officiating the worship services in Las Vegas, Brother Valdez passed by my place to conduct a Bible study. By this time I had aready decided to leave the priesthood and study the doctrines being taught in the Church. Around this time, I also met Brother Paul Membrere, then district minister of California, who advised me to continue my Bible lessons. When I moved to Miami, I continued my biblical studies under Brother Danilo Besa, a volunteer worker.

On February 3, 1986, I was baptized in the Locale of Jacksonville, Florida by Brother Venros Santiago. This was the happiest day of my life on this earth. All the doubts in my mind, especially about Jesus Christ as a man, were cleared. I was also impressed by the unity and brotherhood among the members of the Church and the ordeliness that is being observed during the worship services.

My conversion to the true Church was the happiest moment in my life. It freed me from the shackles of Catholic Church and her hypocrisy and false teachings which are contrary to the words of God written in the Holy Bible. I am presently a deacon and committe auditor in the Locale of Miami. I advise those who are not members of the Church, including the Catholic priests, to carefuly read the Bible especially the verses pertaining to Jesus Christ that He is not God but man. And to all the members, be more active and dedicated to our membership. Let us be firm and steadfast in our faith because this will help the new members become more stronger in the Church.


FOOTNOTE:

During my Philosophy and Theology years in the seminary, our professor in Religion named Bernard etrais remarked that, someday, the Philippines will send missionaries to the distant lands. I thought then that it would be the Cathoic Church who would do that, but now I realize with firm faith and conviction that it is the Iglesia ni Crist that is sending ministers all over the world.

I would like to thank the following ministers: Brothers Angel Casanova Sr., Felix im, Al Casanova, Angel Casanova Jr., Leopoldo Ricardo, and Manuel Andaya, the present district minister of the Southeastern Seaboard, and all the other ministers and brethren who helped me become a strong member of the Church. I would also like to extend my sincerest gratitude and love to my dear wife Agnes and to my daughter Kimberly, who both hold offices in our Locale of Miami, and to my in-laws, Brother Amado and Sister Aurora Tanedo, Sisters Arlene and Mel Tanedo for their acceptance and support. But most especially, I thank the Almighty God for giving me the light and calling me to serve in the true Church, assuring me that if I succeed, I would certainly receive the promised salvation come Judgment Day.


Source: Pasugo:God's Message Magazine, International Edition, October-December 1999