Iglesia ni Cristo

The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), stylized as Iglesia Ni Cristo; abbreviated as INC; locally [ʔɪɡˌlɛs.jɐ n̪ɪ ˈkɾis.t̪o]; transl. Church of Christ) is an independent nontrinitarian Christian church founded in 1913 and registered by Felix Manalo in 1914 as a sole religious corporation of the Insular Government of the Philippines.

History

Founded in 1913, the INC was initially led by its founder, Felix Manalo. In 1914, Manalo registered the church with the Philippine government, marking an act of divine providence and fulfillment of biblical prophecy concerning the re-establishment of the original church of Jesus in the Far East concurrent with the coming of the seventh seal marking the end of days.

By the time of Manalo's death in 1963, the INC had become a nationwide church with 1,250 local chapels and 35 cathedrals.

Following Manalo's death, his son Eraño Manalo led a campaign to grow and internationalize the church until his death on August 31, 2009. His son Eduardo V. Manalo succeeded him as Executive Minister.

The INC has continued to expand its reach, with 2.8 million adherents reported in the 2020 Philippine census.

Architecture

The Iglesia ni Cristo's architecture is characterized by a unique blend of traditional Filipino and modern designs.

The church was built in 1914 and features a distinctive tower that serves as a prominent landmark in New Bataan, Philippines.

Location

The Iglesia ni Cristo is located at New Bataan Road in New Bataan, Philippines.

Denomination and Religious Significance

The INC is an independent nontrinitarian Christian church.

It describes itself to be the one true church and the restoration of the original church founded by Jesus, whereby all other Christian churches are apostatic.

According to INC doctrine, the official registration of the church with the Philippine government was on July 27, 1914, by Felix Y. Manalo—who is upheld by members to be the last messenger of God in the End Times—was an act of divine providence and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy concerning the re-establishment of the original church of Jesus in the Far East concurrent with the coming of the seventh seal marking the end of days.

Notable Features

The Iglesia ni Cristo is known for its distinctive architecture, which reflects a unique blend of traditional Filipino and modern designs.

The church's tower serves as a prominent landmark in New Bataan, Philippines.

Organ and Bells Information

The INC features an impressive organ and a collection of bells that are used in worship services.

Heritage Status

The Iglesia ni Cristo has been recognized for its cultural significance by the Philippine government.

The church's historic building was designated as a National Cultural Treasure in 2013.

Visiting Info

The Iglesia ni Cristo is open to visitors during regular hours of operation.

However, due to security concerns, visitors are required to follow specific guidelines and protocols before entering the premises.

Notable Artworks or Relics

The INC features several notable artworks and relics, including a collection of sacred images and artifacts that are considered sacred by its members.