What if I told you the First Christian Reformed Church in Manila has roots stretching back to the 16th century? Its story is one of faith hope and a global connection.
The Christian Reformed Church in the Philippines CRCP began in 1962. Missionaries Vince and Lucy Apostol from North America started planting churches. They began their work on Negros Island. This was under the Christian Reformed World Missions CRWM.
The First Christian Reformed Church in Manila is part of a larger movement. The CRCP was formally organized in 1976. It started with only three congregations. These congregations were grouped into five regional assemblies. They were known as classes. A synod was established in 1983. This synod serves as the highest governing body. By 1990 the CRCP had grown significantly. It included 25 organized churches and 20 church plants.
Today the CRCP has ten classes. It has over 50 congregations and more than 5000 members. The First Christian Reformed Church in Manila is part of this vibrant community. The CRCP network includes churches and outreach programs across the Philippines.
The Christian Reformed Church in the Philippines has a clear vision. They aspire to be a caring church rooted in the Word. They aim to call the world to obedience. This is done by proclaiming God’s Kingdom.
The CRCP’s mission is to glorify God. They do this by equipping God’s people for service. The First Christian Reformed Church in Manila shares this mission. The church believes every believer has a role in God’s kingdom. It is committed to helping members serve others. They strive to positively impact their communities.
The CRCP’s core values guide its ministry. These values are being passionate God-centered compassionate biblical and focused on servanthood. The First Christian Reformed Church in Manila embodies these values.
The Christian Reformed Church in the Philippines traces its roots to the Protestant Reformation. It was inspired by John Calvin’s teachings. The First Christian Reformed Church in Manila continues this tradition. The CRCP confesses a specific faith. They believe in one God existing in three persons. These are the Father Son and Holy Spirit. They believe Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God. The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son.
The church believes the Holy Scriptures contain God’s will. They teach what people must believe for salvation. God created the world and all creatures. He governs them with His providence. God created man in His image. But through Adam’s disobedience sin entered the world. God elected His people in Christ Jesus. He sent His Son to take on human nature. Jesus satisfied God’s wrath through His death.
The Holy Spirit kindles faith in people’s hearts. This faith embraces Jesus Christ. The CRCP professes one universal Church. It is a holy congregation of believers. They expect salvation in Jesus Christ. They are washed by His blood and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. The First Christian Reformed Church in Manila is part of this holy congregation.
The church believes in sacraments. These seal God’s promises. They strengthen faith. Christ instituted two sacraments baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Baptism signifies reception into the Church. The Lord’s Supper nourishes those incorporated into Christ’s family.
The CRCP believes God appointed rulers and magistrates. They maintain order in the world. People should obey them in all things not against God’s Word. Finally the church believes Jesus Christ will return. He will judge the living and the dead. He will cleanse the world with fire.
As you stand here remember the First Christian Reformed Church in Manila. It is a beacon of faith. It is part of a global movement. It is rooted in history and committed to serving God and the community.