​North Island New Zealand

Once again, the Members Church of God International (MCGI) in the North Island of New Zealand gathered once again to witness and experience the presentation of the brethren’s children, the Kawan ng Cordero (KNC) or the Flock of Lambs which was held last 19th of April 2019.

​Brethren from distant locale chapters throughout the North Island of New Zealand namely Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga and Papakura held its second KNC Presentation succeeding last year’s presentation. Psalms and Hymns for the Lord, led by the Kawan ng Cordero or the Flock of Lambs choir, were sung to strengthen the spirits of the brethren. The program’s opening prayer, led by our workers, officially commenced the beginning of the programme proper.

Kirsten Nina Miranda, one of the brethren’s children, showcased her talent in singing followed by Rhanzi Kent Juanio singing live accompanied by him playing the keyboard. Both showed that children, even though how small and fragile they may be, their God-given talent are not put to waste as they continue to grow and develop with God’s help and mercy.

The KNC’s also showed their ability to memorize verses from the Holy Scriptures. They were also given a chance to convey heartfelt yet meaningful messages through their poems. Songs of praises were also sung by the KNC’s themselves. 

As the program continued, Ianne Meg Parado, one of the KNC’s, showcased her talent in preaching the word of God by delivering her topic. The topic was then continued by Sharmaine Valle and Boone Parado. All of which showed resilience and passion in conveying the gospel of Christ. KNC Representatives from different locale chapters were given a chance to deliver their Speech Choir in front of the brethren. 

Drawings derived from the Bible were also presented onstage by the program’s hosts. Beforehand the children were given different verses from the Bible and they were tasked to draw illustrations from the given verses. They also participated in the Bible Quiz category, where the hosts ask questions about the bible and the KNC’s will then answer it. All in all, the KNC’s showed how even the smallest can be taught to do God’s will.

As it is written in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”. By doing so, the word of God given to the children at a very young age gets instilled into them retaining it until they grow up with God’s help and mercy.

​To God be the Glory!

Written by: Brother John Gabriel Alovera

Members of the Church of God International (MCGI) Wellington chapter once again shared some laughter and fun amidst the bad weather last Sunday, 21st of April 2019.

The gathering started with singing hymns and a prayer and then followed by group activities showcasing the brethren's wits, humor and talents.  Though it was cold and pouring with rain outside, our hearts were filled with gladness and warmth as we shared our thoughts and life experiences inside His fold during the activities.

At lunchtime, we indulged in home-cooked Filipino dishes while watching a movie that tells a story of a brave general who was willing to give his all to save his fortress... depicting the characters of our preachers who are always willing to spend and be spent for the sake of the brethren with the help and guidance of our Lord.

In the afternoon, we were able to visit the Te Papa museum on the waterfront in Cable Street, Wellington. We had the chance to explore its grandeur with its well-detailed giant sized soldiers and their stories at war in Gallipoli. We also got to see some artworks, fossils, and species unique to New Zealand.

Though most of the brethren in Wellington have their family and loved ones still in the Philippines, we are all like a big family here sharing, caring and looking after one another as it should be, like what is written in Hebrews 10:24, "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works."
Looking back at our humble beginnings in Wellington wherein less than 10 brethren were gathered here, we are now increasing in number as promised by our Lord in Jeremiah 30:19, "and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few..."
​So with the help and mercy of our Lord, we proudly say... GO WELLINGTON!!!

Written by: Sis Racquel Rose Evangelista