On September 29, 2024, the PMCC (4th Watch) Manila Locale celebrated its 37th founding anniversary with a grand and spiritually enriching event at the Goodman of the House Building. The day was filled with heartfelt worship and breathtaking musical performances, marking nearly four decades of the church’s apostolic legacy. This year’s theme, “Enriching Apostolic Legacy with Utmost Love and Excellent Thanksgiving,” drawn from Philippians 4:9, underscored the spirit of gratitude and growth that has defined the church’s journey.
The event brought together a diverse range of church members, students, elders, and guests, all united in their love for Christ and commitment to enriching the church’s legacy. As the church continues to grow in both numbers and spiritual depth, the 37th anniversary stood as a powerful reminder of God’s continued guidance and grace.
A Powerful Message from Apostle Jonathan S. Ferriol
At the heart of the celebration was a deeply moving sermon delivered by Apostle Jonathan S. Ferriol. Known for his insightful teachings and spiritual leadership, Jonathan S. Ferriol’s message resonated with the congregation. He emphasized that God’s power continually enriches His church, enabling believers to move beyond a mindset of lack and embrace a life of spiritual prosperity. His message served as a call to action for the members to strengthen their faith and embrace their divine purpose.
The apostle’s message also highlighted the critical role of the apostleship in guiding the church toward spiritual growth. He reminded the congregation that, through the gift of apostleship, every disciple has the potential to prosper not just materially, but more importantly, in their faith. This empowerment from God enables the church to be a beacon of hope, shining His light even beyond its borders.
Apostle Jonathan S. Ferriol was warmly received by the Manila congregation, with the ministerial staff, elders, and students from the Maranatha Christian Academy (MCA) extending a heartfelt welcome. The atmosphere was one of unity, reflecting the close-knit community that the church has cultivated over its 37-year history.
Music, Worship, and Celebration
The day’s festivities were further elevated by soul-stirring musical performances, beginning with a praise and worship session led by Sis. Johanan Libante. Her powerful ushering set the tone for the worship experience, preparing the hearts of both the brethren and visitors alike for a day of reflection and praise.
The talents of the MCA Senior High students were showcased through their lively performance of the song “Tribes,” a celebratory anthem that energized the audience. This was followed by a stunning instrumental number by the homegrown musicians of PMCC Manila’s Sphragis Strings Ensemble, whose performance was a testament to their dedication and musical mastery.
The Maranatha Symphony Orchestra and the New Creation Chorale also added to the event’s spiritual atmosphere. Their moving renditions of classic Christian hymns transported the congregation into a deeper state of worship. These musical offerings not only highlighted the immense talent within the church but also glorified God through the universal language of music.
Testimonies of Faith and Commitment
A cherished tradition of the Manila Locale’s anniversary celebrations is the sharing of personal testimonies. This year, once again, members stood before the congregation to share how God’s grace has manifested in their lives through their steadfast commitment to the ministry of giving. These testimonies, filled with stories of personal challenges and triumphs, were an inspiration to all in attendance.
The testimonies highlighted the importance of sacrifice and dedication, as the brethren spoke of how their contributions, both financially and spiritually, have helped advance God’s mission. From supporting local ministries to extending their reach to international missions, these stories reflect the church’s unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel. The ministry of giving has been instrumental in driving the church’s mission forward, impacting countless lives beyond the borders of Manila.
A Month of Spiritual Empowerment and Growth
The 37th anniversary was not just a single day of celebration but the culmination of a month-long journey of spiritual empowerment. Throughout September, the Manila Locale held a series of services focused on renewing and strengthening the faith of its members. Each Sunday, the congregation gathered to receive spiritual nourishment, culminating in the anniversary event where the blessings were most evidently felt.
A key highlight of this month-long spiritual journey was the baptism of sixty-two individuals, a momentous occasion that symbolizes the growth and vitality of the church. These baptisms are a testament to the church’s ongoing mission to bring more people into the fold of faith, embodying the theme of enriching the apostolic legacy. Each baptism was a celebration of new life and a renewed commitment to walking in the path of Christ.
Looking Forward to the Future
As the PMCC (4th Watch) Manila Locale moves forward, the 37th founding anniversary serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a reminder of the work that lies ahead. The church, rooted in its apostolic legacy, continues to be a pillar of faith, love, and thanksgiving. The community remains steadfast in its mission to spread God’s word and serve as a light in the world.
