29 May 2024

Asia-Pacific Region

Philippines

During the 16th century, the Philippine Islands became a Spanish colony, which led to a significant influence by the Roman Catholic faith. In 1898, the Philippine Islands were ceded to the United States following the Spanish-American War. From 1899-1902, there was a revolt against American rule. In 1935, the Philippines became a self-governing commonwealth, which led to a 10-year transition to total independence. But, in 1942, the islands fell to Japanese occupation during World War II, bringing the US and Filipino forces to fight together from 1944-1945 to regain control. On 4 July 1946, the Republic of the Philippines attained full independence, and the Church of the Nazarene established work here in that same year. Since then, the Philippines has experienced significant ups and downs in the political and economic climate, and foreign terrorism has impacted the security of this ethnically diverse country. More recently, rising tensions between China and the Philippines have brought international focus to disputed territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea. Many Filipinos work abroad in a variety of fields as domestic workers and caregivers, as well as maritime employment in both commercial and tourism. Those Filipino Nazarenes who go abroad to work carry with them an evangelistic heart and a message of Scriptural Holiness. Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS) is located on the outskirts of Manila, with a student body from across the Asia-Pacific Region. In June 2023, the Global NMI Convention elected Christine Mosuela, from the Philippines, as the new global NMI president.

34,871 Members

407 Fully Organized Churches; 56 Not Yet Organized Churches

190 District Licensed and 294 Ordained Ministers on 11 Districts

Metropolitan Luzon District celebrates the 75th Alabaster Offering

Churches from across the Metropolitan Luzon District (MLD) joined on 3 September 2023 for an NMI Sunday to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Alabaster Offering. Embracing the theme “My Alabaster Offering,” local church pastors participated in the annual pulpit exchange to share the story, vision, and passion for Alabaster Offering. This practice has been observed on the district for over a decade. The district’s commitment to the work of Nazarene Missions International through the Alabaster Offering is strong and contagious.

This celebration is a reminder to the church community of the abundant blessings and provisions that God continues to give His people. Every congregation cheerfully gave their offering as an expression of love and worship to God. The annual Alabaster Offering celebration is not only an opportunity to participate in the Church of the Nazarene’s global mission but also a reminder to embrace the challenge of pouring out one’s life at the feet of Jesus for the sake of others.

In commemorating the 75th anniversary of Alabaster, the Metropolitan Luzon District reaffirmed its commitment to the mission of the Church of the Nazarene and its enduring message of sacrificial giving and devotion so that others may come to know Jesus.

Could You Serve?

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