For more than a decade since UCG was established in the country, from Northern Luzon down to Southern Mindanao some areas had been sort of silent so far but not anymore.

Recently groups of people affiliated themselves with the church. One group (under Mr. Salvo) from San Jose Camarines Sur formally joined the organization last year. I baptized Mr. Salvo’s daughter Eden in a nearby beach last year when I was assigned to visit the area.

Another group from Minalabac (under Mr. Serillano) of the same province affiliated as well. UCG has been sending materials to them just like any congregation in the church.

Also two people, Mr. Manny Azusano and Mr. Renato Tumala from Tabaco, Albay were baptized last year.

All of these groups did have connections with our former association. Most were members and a few are relatives or friends of members.
They continue to assemble during Sabbaths and Festivals in their local areas.

As agreed upon by all, they will have three or four combined annual meetings in a place most accessible to all. With that arrangement they will be able to get the latest news from the church and will be able to fellowship with one another. The first meeting took place in Naga City at the Nagaland Hotel during the last Day of Unleavened Bread. A total of 36 attended. Members were delighted because they were able to keep God’s festival in one place and got to know each other more. The next Sabbath meeting is scheduled on the last Saturday of August.

© 2009 United Church of God, AIA - Pilipinas