Overflowing Thanksgiving: MCGI Locale of Pagadian and Baluno Mark Anniversaries

On August 30, 2025, a double celebration unfolded in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur, as the brethren gathered for a Thanksgiving to God. They were commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Locale of Pagadian and the 8th anniversary of the Locale of Baluno. Together with Servants-in-Charge Brother Gerry Cabañero and Brother Danny Navales, along with Assistant Servant-in-Charge Brother Roland Antonio, the congregation joyfully celebrated these milestones with heartfelt thanksgiving.

The Locale of Pagadian was established on August 20, 2005. Brother Diosdado Cael, Brother Demer Jumalon, and Sister Elvie Jumalon were among its first members. From then on, with God’s help, the number of brethren steadily grew. Despite frequent relocations in its early months, they remained steadfast. Since January 2016, the locale has been situated in Purok Lower Lumboy, Barangay Tuburan, where over 200 brethren now gather.

Meanwhile, the story of the Locale of Baluno began in 2017 when Brother Bong Bonghanoy and Sister Emie Bonghanoy returned to their hometown in Baluno, where no locale yet existed. Despite the distance and rough roads, they faithfully attended gatherings in the Locale of Pagadian with their children.

Eventually, a satellite was installed in their home, and from that humble space, more souls were led to accept the faith and embrace the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ as written in the Bible. Moved by this growth, they acquired a piece of land, and through the brethren’s collective efforts, the Locale of Baluno was faithfully built. The Locale of Baluno was formally established on August 10 of that year.

These stories of humble beginnings and the brethren’s joyful perseverance reveal how God honors those who remain steadfast in faith. Through every trial and triumph, they continued to abound in the work of the Lord — trusting that their labor is never in vain. In every season, the brethren have served with grateful hearts, looking back with thanksgiving on the years that have passed and looking forward with unwavering faith in God’s unfailing mercy.

To God be the glory!