Mga Handog na Kaanib ng Iglesiyang Tatag ni Ginoong Felix Manalo, Umanib na sa Tunay na Iglesia ni Cristo!

Anak ng Diakono at Diakonesa ng INC™ Nagbalik-loob na sa Tunay na Iglesia ni Cristo

Photo Credit: Bro. Wendell P. Talibong, SsVP

Welcome converts from Iglesia Ni Cristo to the Roman Catholic Church. Mr. & Mrs. Fernando R. Suerte & Rocelyn M. Suerte from Zone 4,Tiguma, Pagadian City. Rocelyn's parents are both currently INC deacon & deaconesa.

Rappler: After the 2015 controversies: What's been happening inside the Iglesia ni Cristo?

For the INC's 105th anniversary on July 27, Rappler speaks with members, both active and inactive, who talk about changes – some of them painful – in their church

Jodesz Gavilan for Rappler

@jodeszgavilan

Published 11:35 AM, July 27, 2019

Updated 11:35 AM, July 27, 2019

MANILA, Philippines – For many years, Guia* embodied what is expected of a loyal member of the Iglesia ni Cristo.

She regularly attended services, moved in a circle full of INC members, aligned her activities with the teachings, and didn’t have any bit of doubt about what the church stands for.

“I was living in a bubble because my community was mainly centered around the church, the home, and the school,” Guia told Rappler. “I didn't have other perspectives.”

But everything changed one fateful month in 2015.

The months surrounding July 2015 were a battle of propaganda and violence between the strong circle of INC executive director Eduardo V. Manalo and the camp of expelled members, including high-ranking ministers and even members of the Manalo family. (READ: Revolt in the Iglesia ni Cristo)

There were huge rallies on EDSA, small stakeouts outside the family compound along Tandang Sora Avenue, and toxic exchanges on social media which extended to groups outside of the warring sides, including politicians and the media.

It was also when the INC explicitly flexed its political influence cultivated since its establishment in 1914 by Felix Manalo. (INFOGRAPHIC: What you should know about the Iglesia ni Cristo)

But for Guia and many members of the INC, the period starting July 2015 was the beginning of what they refer to as an unravelling of the group’s flaws. The biggest controversy that struck the 105-year-old religious group was a turning point for many who were born into, or grew up in, the church. (READ: Manalo brother hits Iglesia ni Cristo 'corruption')

“What made me more awakened, I guess, was that the facts are there,” Guia said, admitting being in denial for the first few months. “The videos kept coming up, more people were speaking up, the blogs were out…it’s that bad.”

The conversations painted a picture of a leadership both aggressively fighting doubts from its own members and shielding them from external criticism.

“I would look forward to going to Church before because I would love to listen to the lessons basically that say do good, check your lifestyle, there was no judgment,” Guia said.

“But now, it has become the way that we need to defend our church against these attackers, we are being attacked and therefore we should fight back,” she added.

Rappler has repeatedly tried since Wednesday, July 24, to get the side of the INC leadership through its spokesperson Edwil Zabala, but text messages and emails have yet to be answered as of Saturday, July 27. We will update this story once we get a response.

ONE. One of the social media posts supporting EVM after the 2015 controversies. Screenshot from Facebook

'One with EVM'

A few months after July 2015, Guia saw herself seated among other faithfuls inside one INC locale in Quezon City, watching a recorded video of Eduardo V Manalo – or EVM – preaching from one faraway place.

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It was the first of what became a fixture in many locales within and outside the Philippines, as confirmed by other INC members Rappler talked to.

Based in the United States, Luis* spent his whole life in the church as his father's side are all members of the INC while his mother converted upon marriage. He described himself as a "good follower" who held a few positions within his locale.

He told Rappler that these videos usually showed EVM preaching from different locations where he went to for church dedications, adding that many members who are against the leadership called this “‘pay-per-view’ service since you give your offering to watch a recording.”

Carlos*, whose INC locale is also in the US, said that the videos would be played every weekend and would take longer than the usual services.

“The church loves to pride itself in unity, so weekly lessons are the same worldwide,” he said.

For Guia, the videos felt like an effort by the church administration to keep EVM in the spotlight amid allegations of corruption and mismanagement. These charges against his leadership came from expelled members and his own family.

“I also felt uncomfortable with it [after a while] because I was in church and I would feel, bakit ako nanonood? (Why am I watching this?)” she said. “It wasn't spiritual for me, it's as if I was mechanically watching television.”

Aside from the frequent videos, many of the church activities were fashioned after the name of EVM, including one dubbed as "Make EVM Smile" project.

Jose*, an active INC member from 1988 to 2017 in Texas, said that he has seen how teachings shifted from being based on the Bible to everything for EVM.

The hymns he used to sing as a choir member growing up were pulled out and replaced with songs that give glory to the leadership. “I hear it’s only gotten worse now. People sing songs about him when he visits,” Jose added.

A quick search on YouTube will show several videos of songs about EVM. One of these songs, I Am One With EVM, was uploaded in August 2016 and featured international locales.

EVM AWARDS. The Iglesia ni Cristo holds its Excellence in Visual Media (EVM) awards in October 2015. File photo by Rappler

Obey the administration

Since July 2015, the circle of expelled and current members has grown bigger and with it, sentiments and allegations against the INC leadership. Anti-INC bloggers writing under pseudonyms became more active while international media reported on the controversies surrounding the INC.

These developments, as expected, did not sit well with the leadership. But for many inside the INC, particularly millennials, the external criticism opened their eyes to what was happening – something that the INC administration tried to discourage and stop.

How did they do it? According to INC members Rappler whom talked to, denial was their first resort followed by censorship of any external media that showed a contrary view.

“The church leadership censors the brethren as we are told not to listen, read, or watch anything that puts the church in a bad light,” Carlos said. “We are told not to believe the negative things that are being said about the church, and are told to only trust news that are on the church website/radio/TV channel.”

Luis, meanwhile, said that lessons became very repetitive and “became more focused on the administration and [the need] to obey them.” The church, he said, became more controlling of its members.

Dennis*, a member for 40 years, saw that the leadership implemented the mantra “obey and never complain” which forced many of its members to turn a blind eye to everything else or face possible expulsion.

“That mantra in itself reveals just how much the INC despises critical thought and analysis or accountability,” he told Rappler. “In other words, you are not allowed to ask questions just follow what you are told.”

Staying or leaving

This has led to a more problematic outcome, the members said, as sisters and brothers were allegedly encouraged to report those who are defying the orders of the leadership.

“There was a lot of tension within the brethren and they were encouraged to spy and tell on each other if they see that they might be against the church administration,” Carlos said.

Being expelled from the religious group, also called “tiwalag,” is said to be the worst thing that can happen to an INC member. For many, being subjected to it means you can no longer be "saved" or even lose benefits that come with membership in the church.

An expulsion decision is finalized ideally only after going through a rigorous process, an INC source told Rappler. The expelled member’s name is removed from the official roster and immediately announced in the following church service. (FAST FACTS: What does 'tiwalag' mean for Iglesia ni Cristo?)

Expelled members cannot attend INC-related activities, and in many cases, are barred from speaking to other members. This is precisely why many are afraid to speak up or go against the orders of the church leadership publicly.

“The paranoia became really high, everyone was being afraid of being reported,” Jose said.

There are INC members who have publicly challenged the leadership only to be persecuted and expelled. Others have reduced their involvement in church activities and are just waiting to be called out, lacking enough courage to actually terminate their membership given the repercussions. (READ: Ex-INC members alarmed over 'disappearances')

Guia believes that the loss of confidence of many of INC members could have been avoided if only the leadership was open to the questions they had. The lack of transparency only worsened things.

“It would help if they would just explain to us what’s happening just so I can see their openness to discuss what members feel about the controversies,” she said.

“I think it would make me more comfortable, more safer to be part of the church.” – Rappler.com

*Names of the subjects have been changed for their protection.

Rappler: Expelled INC member gets refugee status in Canada

Imagine if an ex-Catholic member would seek refuge in other countries because his life is in danger. And those who wants his life are the very same persons who call themselves "followers of the real church"? What a hypocrite. This is why Menorca's case is UNIQUE to the Iglesia Ni Cristo® - 1914. It no longer embodies the Christian moral precepts that is a prescription for being a follower of Christ! That's why the INC™ can't blame non-INC™ for calling them "cult"!  -CD2000 [Source: Rappler / A separate article is also published in ABS-CBN]

Canadian authorities say Lowell Menorca II 'is a person in need of protection from a risk of cruel and unusual treatment or punishment and a risk to his life' 

ARRESTED. Ex-Iglesia ni Cristo minister Lowell Menorca is secured by police officers after he was presented a warrant of arrest for libel on January 20, 2016. File photo by Lito Boras/Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – Citing threats to his life, Canada's Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) has granted refugee status to expelled Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) member Lowell Menorca II. 

Rappler on Friday, January 26, obtained a redacted copy of the Canadian authorities' decision on Menorca's case. Canada's CBC News reported on the same decision on Thursday, January 25. 

"The Refugee Protection Division determines that the claimant is a person in need of protection. Therefore, the Refugee Protection Division accepts the claim," said the Refugee Protection Division of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada in a notice of decision dated November 6, 2017. 

"The panel finds the claimant is a person in need of protection from a risk of cruel and unusual treatment or punishment and a risk to his life," the panel said. 

Menorca, 40, had arrived in Canada on April 1, 2016, and soon after applied for refugee protection. 

The hearings on his refugee claim took place on October 31, November 1, and November 10, 2016. 

"When the panel considers the links between the INC and the law enforcement authorities in the Philippines, the general climate of impunity that pervades Philippines law enforcement particularly with respect to the issue of extrajudicial killing, and the level of corruption that exists in the Philippines government and law enforcement apparatus, the panel is satisfied [Menorca] would be unable to avail himself of state protection, from the risks that he fears in that country," the IRB also said, as quoted by CBC News. 

CBC News said that INC's lawyer, Roger McConchie, said the INC will not comment in the meantime. 

Rappler is also trying to reach INC for comment as of posting time. 

Menorca, a former INC evangelical worker, claimed he had been abducted and charged with illegal possession of firearms supposedly to force him to expose members critical of INC. 

The INC calls him a fugitive. – Rappler.com

Dating INC™ Umanib sa Tunay na Iglesiang Tatag ni Cristo Dahil sa Translacion ng Quiapo

Why teenagers join the Nazareno procession

To keep traditions, realize dreams, and hope for miracles

TRADITION. Jerome Dalumpines (2nd from the left) goes through the crowd in Quiapo with his friends. Photo by Eloisa Lopez/Rappler

Rappler.com MANILA, Philippines – Every January 9, a multitude of devotees join the procession or Traslacion of the image of the Black Nazarene of Quiapo Church, walking barefoot for hours through the streets of what used to be called downtown Manila.

As millions push and shove with blind zeal during the often 24-hour long Traslacion, millions too are the reasons, prayers, and wishes in the hearts of these devotees.

Among them are teenagers, who have been taking on the “challenge” of joining the procession – jostling, pushing, shoving, and climbing over the sea of humanity to touch the black image of Jesus Christ.

Many of these youth march in groups, hovering at the fringes along the route of the procession, mindless of the Traslacion's religious meaning.

Fifteen-year-old Ryan Bernabe is among these clueless youngsters, admitting that he began participating in the Traslacion 5 years ago with no meaningful reason. He simply wanted to join his friends who dressed up in yellow and maroon shirts every 9th of January, and walked barefoot from their homes in Tondo to Quirino Grandstand, and then to Quiapo Church.

For many years, Ryan felt he was left out, as he was born and raised a member of Iglesia ni Cristo. He was the only non-Catholic in his barkada.

Envious of his friends’ annual "get-together," he made a decision to convert to the Roman Catholic religion. He recalled telling his father his decision. “'Pa, I will leave Iglesia. I want to join in [the procession of] the Nazareno. I’m envious of my friends,” he supposedly said.

While his father hesitated, there was no stopping the stubborn boy. The next time he was invited to the procession of the Nazareno, he went ecstatic. He was 10.

For two years, he went with his friends as if it were a group outing. They wore matching shirts, walked miles together, and proudly identified themselves “Batang Herbosa” (kids of Herbosa Street, Tondo). It was all about the thrill of the “challenge” to touch the image of the Black Nazarene.

Such was Ryan's situation until two years ago, when he met a real-life challenge. Both of his parents were jailed for drug possession and use.

Life as he knew it changed in an instant. Ryan, the second of 6 children, had to take up new responsibilities. He found a real purpose for joining the Traslacion.

“[For two years,] I have prayed for my parents to be freed soon,” Ryan said in Filipino. “We were told they were supposed to come home in December [last year], but until now they haven’t. I just want them to be home.”

For 14-year-old Jet Soriano, however, his first experience of the Traslacion was not for the sake of participating in the procession. He did not walk barefoot and breathless for nothing. He had fervent request to ask the Black Nazarene, absolutely believing the image was miraculous.

For years, Jerome said he noticed a falling out in the relationship of his parents. But it was only recently that the teenager discovered that it was because his father had another woman.

In his first dive into the Traslacion, his fervent prayer was to have a "whole" family. “I hope Mama and Papa can fix their marriage,” Jet said in Filipino.

For the sake of tradition

Meanwhile, others simply join the procession for the sake of tradition.

Fourteen-year old Jerome Dalumpines had just gone through what seemed to be an endless wall of people to reach the andas (carriage) bearing the antique statue of the Black Nazarene. He was nearly out of breath.

“It’s euphoric,” Jerome said, “once your hand touches the image of the Black Nazarene. It’s as if all your problems are gone, like all your sins are forgiven.”

Jerome was 11 when he started joining the procession after being influenced by his brother and grandfather, who were both long-time devotees and participants of the Traslacion. He has no specific “wish” to the image that is believed to be miraculous, unlike other devotees who credit all their blessings to the Nazarene.

For him, keeping alive the family tradition was enough reason to attend every year. “I will do this until I’m old, even just for that,” Jerome said.

Likewise, 17-year-old Noel Cahulugan Jr made the life-threatening act of driving through the throng to touch the Black Nazarene Tuesday morning, January 9, to continue a loved one’s tradition.

Three years ago, Noel lost one of his closest friends, “Bradley,” who was then a sacristan in their parish in Novaliches City. Growing up together, Noel watched from the sidelines as Bradley kept his devotion to the Black Nazarene.

When Bradley died, Noel felt he had to take on his role.

“It had always been his dream to touch the image of the Nazarene,” Noel said. “Since we grew up together, when he died, I vowed to continue his dream.”

And for the last 3 years, Noel and his friends have kept their promise. – Rappler.com

Tatang Larry Mallari: Dating Kaanib ng INC™, ngayo'y Kaanib ng Tunay na Iglesia ni Cristo - ang Iglesia Katolika

From Persecutor to Defender Part 1
From Persecutor to Defender Part 2

Iglesia Ni Cristo®: "It is not the true one. It is a false church" paratang ng dating kaanib nila

Isang dating kaanib ng INC™, umalis at nagpahayag ng kanyang saloobin at ito ay nagin viral sa inernet.  DITO nalathala ang nasabing artikulo:

As I planned to write this piece I was at the crossroads of my membership with the Iglesia ni Cristo. Shall I stay? Or shall I leave?

I have been an avid member of the Iglesia ni Cristo since the time of Bro. Eraño Manalo. I believed all its teachings that it is the true church. I stayed loyal for more than a decade now, doing my part and giving my all that was required of the members. I had no complains. I felt it was okay so that we could have beautiful chapels that are our pride and joy.
But I am not exactly moneyed: my salary is just enough to give my part. And that explains why I think I am also entitled to say my piece and ask where the money goes. Where do they really go? I am asking this question and other questions because of the recent events that have captured the attention of the world on us. Are we really a true church? Is the Iglesia ni Cristo God’s church?

Now and then, I would hear people attacking the teachings of the church especially the part that says Christ is man. But that did not bother me. I still have time to check on that. Politically, there are those issues like the legitimacy of bloc voting that sometimes a brother is pitted against his family. He cannot vote for his relative but only for the wishes of the Administration or else he gets excommunicated. I had an experience that closely hews to this one. It concerned my father who lost the barangay elections because earlier he did not vote for the choice of the Administration. They pitted someone against him. Poor father! That was painful to me but I still let that pass.

We were told not to watch the programs of Eliseo Soriano or Bro. Eli – that proud minster that left us and now talks a lot against the church. But one fortunate Friday, without intending to, I had the opportunity to watch him in one of his recent Bible Expositions. There, flashed on the screen, I saw our ministers unabashedly flashing a death threat on him. They were saying, if he comes back (to the country), he would be met at the airport; there would be red carpet on the floor. Candles would burn for him and there would be free peanuts. They sealed their talk saying, “To Bro. Eli, peace be with you!”

I was so ashamed of myself. And I thought we drove him away in an effort to gag his mouth. This Bro. Eli was saying at the Exposition that he was forced to leave the country on account of the INC. He explained that events happened fast when he dared our Sugo to have a debate with him. But we did not respond to that challenge, right?

I knew that our brother, Daniel Veridiano, had filed a rape case against Soriano. When that move did not prosper, he went to GMA7 and had himself interviewed. I came to know more about this case because of that Boycott Page of the Ang Dating Daan people in Facebook. From the Long Description of that page, it appeared that they are still smarting from a Second Insult from GMA. They say that despite their complaints of irresponsible reporting, some 3 years after, their sister station aired that controversial interview also. That is why it is a GMA7-11 that the Ang Dating Daan are boycotting, going five years now, they say. Don’t tell me we had nothing to do with this GMA caper. We love to persecute Soriano.

I also learned that Daniel Veridiano is in fact a former member of Soriano’s group. He is called “Puto” over there. They know him as one who took advantage of 14 of his office mates – all sexual offenses. It appears that the INC only used him against Soriano and more. The case was dismissed and then re-filed by virtue of INC influence with Gloria Arroyo, the president that time. That is why the preacher is charging us with panggigipit. This persecution has something to do with political influence, right?

If we center this discussion on Soriano – the man we love to pester just because he keeps examining our beliefs – he would say in his expositions that we are guilty of the following: “pamamaratang, panggigipit, paninira, pagdedemanda, pagtatangka sa buhay, at panguusig sa ADD.” In English, these are “ false accusations, persecutions, defamations, filing cases of false charges, threat on life, and oppression of the Ang Dating Daan.”

Tatang Larry Mallari: Dating INC® ni Manalo ngayo'y nasa tunay na Iglesia ni Cristo-ang Iglesia Katolika!