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Revision as of 18:33, 14 January 2005 by 63.231.49.164 (talk)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC, Filipino for Church of Christ) is a Christian sect originating in the Philippines. Noted for its distinctive church architecture of narrow pointed spires, it strongly opposes the doctrines of the Roman Catholic Church, which is the predominant religion in the country. The church, founded by Felix Manalo on July 27, 1914, claims to have been established by Jesus in these last days through fulfilment of biblical prophecies and is a tightly knit organization that believes the Bible encourages the Church to keep in close contact with its membership.
The Iglesia ni Cristo has grown to more than two hundred congregations in over 84 countries outside the Philippines. The church doesn't disclose the exact number of members, but estimates place worldwide membership to 6 million, almost all of whom are of Filipino descent. The INC is possibly the second-largest single Christian religion in the Philippines. Its members are noted for its bloc voting in Philippine elections, making the church a powerful political influence.
Some of the beliefs of the Iglesia ni Cristo are that: There is only one true God, the Father (John 17:1,3), and Christ was a man sent by God as a mediator between men and God (I Tim 2:5); the Bible is the sole basis for spiritual guidance; one needs to be commissioned (Romans 10:15) by God in order to preach the pristine Gospel of Christ; and Felix Manalo was sent to reestablish the original Church of Christ described in the Bible (Acts 20:28, Lamsa) in modern times and was given the sole authority to evangelize Bible's teachings and commandments.
There are three organizations in the Church, with all members belonging to one:
Binhi, meaning "seed" for ages 0-18
Kadiwa, meaning "youth with pure intent" for unmarried members 18 and over
Buklod, meaning "united in marriage" for all married members.
Each organization has monthly meetings (on average) and therein relays messages from the administration and seeks to increase fellowship and unity between brethren.
The INC has its central office in New Era, Quezon City and is currently being administered by Erano G. Manalo and Eduardo V. Manalo. The church owns and operates the New Era University, New Era Hospital (both near the headquarters in Diliman), and broadcasts its religious programs with its own stations such as DZEC AM radio and the NET-25 television station under its Eagle Broadcasting Corporation.