INC celebrates 95th anniversary

CEBU, Philippines - In its 95th anniversary in the country, the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) is set to hold grand religious assemblies in 14 venues across the nation on July 27, aside from the annual thanksgiving services done in many houses of worship on July 26.

In Cebu, the venue will be the Cebu City Sports Complex in Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City.

Thousands are expected to join the said event as delegates and supporters of INC from neighboring provinces are joining the “Iglesia ni Cristo Day.”

July 27 has been declared earlier by the Malacañang as a special national working holiday pursuant to Republic Act 9645 enacted last June 12 which declares the observance of the INC’s foundation day as a national holiday.

Traffic advisories were issued by local authorities to avoid possible congestion of public roads on that day, especially in the afternoon.

Other venues of grand assemblies are in Metro Manila, Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City, Rizal Memorial Complex in Malate, Quirino Stadium in Bantay, Ilocos Sur and the Central Integrated Terminal in Santiago City, Isabela.

Also in Narciso Ramos Sports Center in Lingayen, Pangasinan, Villa del Sol Subdivision grounds in Calamba Ciy, Laguna and in Bicol University Sports Complex and Commencement Grounds in Legaspi City.

The INC was founded in the Philippines on July 27, 1914. It is the largest entirely indigenous Christian religious organization that originated from the country and said to be the largest independent church in Asia. —Jessica Ann R. Pareja/WAB (THE FREEMAN)