The National Cathedral of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente launched its Ruby Anniversary Celebrations on May 10, 2009 to mark its forty years of ministry. The National Cathedral was built during the time of Obispo Maximo Isabelo de los Reyes Jr. and was inaugurated on May 8, 1969.
The celebration started with a motorcade participated in by members of the congregation of the National Cathedral and from other nearby parishes. A Thanksgiving Mass which was presided by the Obispo Maximo, the Most Reverend Godofredo J. David, followed after the motorcade. Preaching the sermon for the occasion was the Right Reverend David Ga, Bishop of Negros Occidental and Siquijor.
Co-celebrating the Thanksgiving Mass were Bishop Felixberto Calang of the Diocese of Misamis Occidental, Bukidnon and Camiguin (MOBUCA); Bishop Delfin Callao Jr. of the Diocese of Southern Mindanao; and Bishop Ephraim Fajutagana, General Secretary of the Church.
The Thanksgiving Mass was highlighted with the release of forty (40) doves, to symbolize the great jubilations as well as the hope and aspirations of the National Cathedral for this year and beyond.
An exhibit, entitled "A Glimpse at the National Cathedral 40 Years Ago and Beyond" which showcased several documents and photographs relative to the history of the National Cathedral, was opened for viewing after the Thanksgiving Mass.
A Fellowship Program immediately followed wherein leaders of the lay and clergy organizations, local and national, shared their greetings. The fellowship was also highlighted with the Awarding of Plaque of Appreciation to notable members of the congregation who have been rendering faithful service to the National Cathedral since 1969 to present.
The Reverend Dr. Winfred Vergara delivered a short talk entitled, "National Cathedral: The Tangible Fruit of the Concordat Relation between IFI and ECUSA". The National Cathedral stands on a lot which was donated by Episcopal Church of the United States of America (ECUSA). Reverend Vergara also facilitated a Workshop on Contemporary Worship where he talked about contemporary worship; sharing a testimony; preaching and praying for healing and blessing.
Father Vergara was a former President of the Youth Organization of the National Cathedral. He presently serves as priest of The Episcopal Church, USA, and Officer of the Episcopal Asiamerica Ministry.
The May 10, 2009 Anniversary Celebration served as the launching of the four events planned for the National Cathedral’s Ruby Anniversary. It will be followed by a series of events to be held on August 3, 2009 on the occasion of the 107th IFI Proclamation Anniversary; on October 25, 2009 during the Month of the Laity Celebration, and will culminate on January 31, 2010 on the occasion of the 40th National Cathedral Fiesta.
