“Looking for direction?” That’s how Felix Manalo must have felt. He was the founder of Iglesia Ni Christo. Let’s explore the history of Iglesia Ni Christo in Salt Lake City. The Iglesia Ni Christo has a fascinating history. It all began with Felix Manalo’s quest for religious truth.
Manalo was born in the Philippines in 1886. He explored various religious paths. He sought deeper understanding. Manalo eventually felt called to start his own church. This church would be rooted in his interpretation of the Bible.
In July 1914, Iglesia Ni Christo was officially registered. This happened in the Philippines. This coincided with the start of World War I. Manalo’s mission was to preach the Iglesia Ni Christo. He also wanted to unite fellow pastors. They would preach the same church.
The church quickly gained followers. It expanded throughout the Philippines. It then reached distant parts of the globe. Iglesia Ni Christo even successfully established itself in the West and Europe. This was a unique achievement for a church from a third-world country.
The Iglesia Ni Christo in Salt Lake City has a unique story. The building that houses the Iglesia Ni Christo was built in 1904. It was originally the Salt Lake 31st Ward Chapel. The church was sold around 1986. This was when the old LeGrand ward was torn down. The current chapel replaced it. The Iglesia Ni Christo is located at 1140 South on 900 East.
Felix Manalo died in 1963. Eraño G. Manalo succeeded him. He continued to build upon his father’s foundation. The church experienced accelerated growth under Eraño’s leadership. Iglesia Ni Christo spread across oceans. It left its mark in Asia, America, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Today, Iglesia Ni Christo continues to thrive. It has locations worldwide including here in Salt Lake City. The church emphasizes unity, faith and adherence to biblical teachings. Iglesia Ni Christo remains a testament to Felix Manalo’s vision. It embodies his unwavering dedication. It is a global community of believers.
The Iglesia Ni Christo has worship services in English. They occur on Wednesday at 5:30 am. Thursday services are at 7:30 pm. Sunday services take place at 9:00 am and 11:30 am. There is also a Children’s Worship Service on Sunday.
So here at Iglesia Ni Christo in Salt Lake City we see a place with a long history. This building has been home to different congregations. It stands as a testament to faith and community. Iglesia Ni Christo continues to be a place of worship. It is a gathering place for believers in Salt Lake City.