Iglesia Ni Cristo – INC Giving Project

Responding with Love in Seattle

Iglesia Ni Cristo Responds to Arson Attack

42nd Avenue in southeast Seattle, Washington has been busy with activity for the past week, ever since an arsonist decided to throw Molotov cocktails at the Iglesia Ni Cristo worship building located there. The Seattle Police department and the FBI have been coming through conducting their investigations, reporters have been reporting on the latest developments, and members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) have been going door-to-door to invite their neighbors to a community outreach event on Saturday.

“It’s always a joy to see community efforts going on to help uplift and serve our community, so you’re doing a great thing. …we know about crime and some of the other things that are going on here, and I think the Church is a good place to be able to pray about those things and to help bring change to the people’s heart.”

Jefferson Butler, an assistant pastor for a church located across the street from the Church Of Christ worship building was among the neighbors invited to the community event.

“Well, I think you have to be able to move on and not let something despicable that happened - because the intent for whoever the culprit is - to discourage you from ministry. And that’s what you’re doing here today.'Click To Tweet

He wasn’t the only one who decided to stop by. Throughout the day, dozens of neighbors and community members walked into the compound, crossing – instead of the yellow crime scene tapes that had blocked off the exterior of the building this past week – a colorful balloon arch that welcomed those passing by.

Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.
Outreach in Seattle, Washington after molotov attack on worship building.

Continue reading “Responding with Love in Seattle”

A Reason To Give

Being a nurse, one of my duties is to administer blood/blood products, and monitor patients requiring a blood transfusion. Therefore, it is normal in my line of work to see units of blood at the hospital being brought to patients’ rooms and to operating rooms. They are a dire necessity. They help save lives.

When I heard that there would be a blood donation drive sponsored by the Iglesia Ni Cristo again this year, in partnership with the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation, I was eager to participate. I donated blood for the first time last year, representing the same organization, and despite the challenge I had with my small veins, I decided to give it another try.

The first time I donated blood, the nurses had a difficult time locating my veins; it took almost 15 minutes just to find a good vein. I felt anxious thinking about how difficult it was the first time I donated, but thankfully, it was much easier this time. I felt relieved.

Sitting there, I realized that I was not well hydrated, and it took quite a while for me to fill up the bag. The next time I donate, I will make sure to drink plenty of water the night before and on the day of the event, so that I can stay well-hydrated — this will make the whole process easier and quicker.

When I finally finished, the nurses offered me juice and cookies. Afterwards, they also gave me a sticker that says “Be nice to me! I donated blood today” and a cute Band-Aid that says “I gave life”.

In speaking with my fellow volunteers at the Canadian Blood Services Clinic in Surrey, it was interesting to find that some of them have given blood numerous times in the past. One gentleman I talked to has donated blood over 25 times! Another lady said it was her 12th time!

Can you imagine the number of people those volunteers and donors have helped over the years?

I felt happy that I was able to do my small part in helping my community. As I was sitting there, I wondered about the individuals whom my small contribution will be able to help.

What are their stories? Why did they need to have blood transfusions?

Even though we don’t get to see the recipients of our donation, it is still a good feeling knowing that we can make an impact on another person’s life.

During my shift in the hospital that evening, the strangest thing happened: I had a patient who needed to have a blood transfusion, and while I was preparing to attend to him, I noticed that he happened to have the exact same blood type as me!

As I prepared the unit of blood, I smiled, and thought to myself — here is an individual in front of me who would benefit from the blood donated from donors like me.

This realization made a great impact on me. As I left the room, I proudly wore my sticker that says, “I donated blood today!” I felt even more inspired to continue to donate blood whenever I can. I hope anyone reading this would be inspired to do the same.

About the Writer:

Lou Aquino is an INC Giving volunteer from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. She is an active participant in INC Giving Projects and the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation.

Lou is a Registered Nurse in a Telemetry Unit, and looks after patients with cardiac conditions. Lou takes pride in helping others and believes that as a member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) it is our duty to be kind and help those who are in need.

Singing For Our Veterans

“27Whenever you possibly can, do good to those who need it.” Proverbs 3:27 GNT

This Bible verse encompasses the whole idea of the INC Giving Project, a program of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, to help, to do good deeds, and to strengthen the community.

From winter clothing drives, tree planting, and food bank donations, I’ve volunteered for each and every activity. I’m always ecstatic to see the camaraderie of the INC Giving volunteers when it comes to these activities, and the great number of volunteers and good spirits will constantly be an uplifting source of happiness for me.

Recently, the local congregation of Eastwood had an INC Giving: Singing for a Cause event. Both children and youth officers were hard at work in the weeks coming to this event; practicing songs, dance moves, and of course, being cute. Classic songs, such as “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley, “You Are My Sunshine” and many more, were being prepared for the elderly at the Kipnes Centre for Veterans.

I had my own role at this event – being an emcee with another volunteer from our local congregation, Mia Medina. For both of us, it was our first time as emcees. So, of course, we were both anxious while we practiced. But no matter how much or how little we practiced, we could never prepare for the excitement that would come on that day.

On the day of the event, it was raining. But it didn’t deter the spirits of the performers or ours, the hosts. Last-minute practices of the songs and the program were echoing the halls of the building, while the elderly and their family members filled up seats. Up to the last second, our excitement was high. And then, we had a bumpy start.

After the first performance, Mia and I got a grip on ourselves and our impromptu lines. The children performed with great delight and were very cute. Our audience members were overjoyed and zealous over the kids’ performances.

One little child, in particular, surprised us with his affinity for the piano. Jian Morales, a young choir member, shocked the audience, and the other volunteers, with his beautiful rendition of classical pieces.

As the event came to a close, the final song involved the kids handing flowered presents to the elderly. It was a great experience all-round. The audience, the tech crew, the performers, and Mia and I, had a wonderful time at this event. The final words were said by the staff in charge of us being there.

As we wholeheartedly thanked them for being with us that afternoon, they respond with the same respect and thankfulness for the joy we brought them. This made all the hard work, practices, and semi-stressful times all worth it.

Doing good deeds is never a duty. It is a joy that adds to your own piece of mind and health. Small acts of random kindness is enough to create a wave of positivity and great happiness.

Whenever we can, absolutely do good things.

About the Writer:

Dave finished his architectural technology program at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology. He is applying for a Bachelor of Design degree at U of A. He is also the president of the Kadiwa, or youth group, in his local congregation and is an aspiring teacher for the Iglesia Ni Cristo’s Children’s Worship Service.

He believes in doing good, helping others, paying it forward and encourages everyone to be kind, be helpful, and always be a friend.

Grateful to Give

Every day, over 188 phone calls are made to the Calgary Food Bank requesting for emergency food hampers. And, so when our local congregation was first notified of the Food Bank Donation Drive Activity, I could already feel the excitement of the volunteers because we knew we would have the chance to contribute to the needs of the food bank and help those in need in our community. But even then I was surprised by just how much we could help.

Our goal was to gather 50 boxes worth of food donation, but tried our best to do more. The INC Giving volunteers spent all week eagerly shopping for items requested by the food bank – such as, canned goods and diapers.

On the day of the event, a representative from the Calgary Food Bank drove in with a large truck to pick up all 104 boxes that the region was able to fill, which weighed 8915 lbs. Despite the harsh weather conditions, INC Giving volunteers still showed up to help load the boxes, one by one, onto the truck.

It was so inspiring to see INC Giving Volunteers and the Calgary Food Bank unite to help out our fellowmen and not let the weather stop them from performing good deeds. Even the Calgary Food Bank driver’s face was really surprised to see so many people waiting outside in the snow for him. He was even more moved when we started to help load the boxes onto the truck.

Once all the boxes were in the truck ready to be dropped off, the representative thanked the INC Giving Volunteers for their time and effort and took a group photo with everyone. Calgary West’s resident minister, Brother James Lajeras, offered them a God’s Message magazine after the activity.

We often get caught up in life and sometimes take essential things, such as. shelter and food for granted. We are very fortunate here in this part of the world as we have a higher quality way of life and are lucky to be able to receive food, shelter and education every day. However, that should not stop us from helping out those in need.

I saw a quote online that said “Never judge people who have little to nothing, as one day you may find yourself having nothing at all.”

We should be thankful for what we have when some people have nothing at all. We should always try to do good deeds every day, no matter how small the act is. Even the little things, like donating that one extra can of food in our pantry, or donating that pile of old clothes in our closet, can help out someone’s life significantly. Little things can truly make a huge impact on those around you. I know it did for me.

The Calgary Food Bank serves families, individuals and organizations and rely solely on the generous support of the community. Visit http://www.calgaryfoodbank.com/ to see how you can help

Contributed by: Thea Canero

Thea Canero is an INC Giving Volunteer from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. She is an active participant in INC Giving Projects and the FYM Foundation. Thea is a Sociology major at the University of Calgary and hopes with her degree to help contribute and improve public social services to better support the needs of members in her community. Thea takes pride in helping others and believes that as a member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ) it is our duty to be kind and help those who are in need.

Metro Manila takes on the 21 Day Kindness Challenge

Sometimes it’s easy to be caught up in the daily grind that we forget to look up and see the opportunities in front of us to do good and make a difference.

So a group of young members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo from Metro Manila, Philippines, one of the busiest and most congested regions of the world, set out to go out into their communities to share kindness by taking on the INC Giving 21 Day Kindness Challenge. The goal: to spread kindness not just with the ones on the recipient end but even inspire those around them to take on the challenge with them.

Rachel Del Rosario from Guadalupe, in Makati, one of the 16 cities making up Metro Manila, started her day by sharing her meal.

Saw our Office Driver wiping our company car and decided to interrupt him to share my breakfast meal. #21DayKindnessChallenge #IglesianiCristo #incmediaorg #DoGood

And she wasn’t the only one to share her meal. Chi Shing Wan from Pembo, another area in Makati, handed a meal to a homeless man.

“Not my first time giving someone a dinner to a homeless man. But this is the most heart touching moment I would like to share. The man cried after I gave to him food that night. He hasn’t eaten for DAYS!”

This was day two of their 21 days of kindness. But they were just getting started. Chi had also volunteered his time to be part of Developers Connect, a non-proﬁt organization that promotes the “IT Pinoy Talent” – hosting free code camps and seminars for individuals interested in technology.

In Quezon City, near the Central Temple of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, Jean Aina Sta. Ana has been busy spreading kindness, starting with a security guard she often sees during her commute.

“On this day, on my way home, I found a security guard who looked tired. He had a frown on his face, and a certain slowness in his movements as; this bothered me because even when he looked this way, he was still fulfilling his duties as a security guard, however, he didn’t get a thank you from the drivers he helped in parking their cars, or the people he helped with groceries, so, in hopes of uplifting his spirits, I “mano” him (Filipino sign of respect). At first, he was confused as to why I did this, then I thanked him for all his hard work, this simple act of kindness put a wide smile on his face.

“She continued her random acts of kindness, by walking around her city giving compliments attached to sweets.

“Too often, we underestimate the power of a smile, a kind word, a simple compliment, or the smallest act of caring; all of which have the ability to make someone’s day and the potential to turn a life around. So let’s give out compliments and be the reason why someone smiles today.

Kindness is one of the greatest gifts we can bestow upon another. A little kindness goes a long way; a smile, a simple compliment can turn a frown on any person’s face upside down. Everyday, we pass by so many people, going to work, going to school, everywhere; these people could be struggling, they have problems that they carry around, but a simple compliment can uplift their spirits for a whole day.” – Jean Aina Sta. Ana

Acts of kindness can occur at anytime, as Rencel Vocales from Evangelista quickly found out. While in the market, she found an opportunity to buy a meal for individuals who dedicate their lives helping others.

On the same day, she found another opportunity to spread kindness, this time on her commute.

”As part of 21-day kindness challenge, Day 17, I bought two tickets for the next commuter who will buy tickets and gave her free bus ticket and also I leave them with INC media card.” – Rencel Vocales

And for Giancarlo Pajanel, from Valenzuela, Metro Manila, and his friends, their first act of kindness was not random at all. Wanting to show their appreciation to a group of individuals directly impacting their Barangay, they surprised them with a heartfelt thank you and snack.

“We thank our Area(Barangay) Peacekeeping and Security Officers who stayed up late and watch over the safety of our area. We bought bread and bottled water to them.”

Stay tuned for updates from these individuals and other participants of the INC Giving 21 Day Kindness Challenge.

And if you’re reading this and haven’t taken on the challenge, why not start today? Make sure to check out this link for suggested acts of kindness and watch and read the stories of individuals, like yourself, that have taken on the challenge and see how it’s impacted them and their community.

Then get started! It’s that easy!

Post your photos on social media and use #incgiving #21DayKindnessChallenge. Make sure to submit your story on incgiving.org.

Contributed by participants of the 21 Day Kindness Challenge in Metro Manila Philippines. With participants from various parts of the world, the INC Giving 21 Day Kindness Challenge is inspiring individuals young and old from all over the world to go out into their community to do good.

Teacher Appreciation Everyday

Name your favorite teacher. Can you picture them in your mind? Why are they your favorite?

Here are little-known facts about teachers:

Teachers spend $1.5 billion annually on school supplies
67% of teachers buy snacks for their students to help with basic nutrition
29% of teachers buy bathroom products for students like toilet paper and toothbrushes

Teachers are extraordinary beings! They spend their lives raising, guiding and molding dozens of individuals each year so that they can be successful in their own lives. And though there’s a whole month set aside to thank them, they really do deserve a thank you everyday.

Join us in recognizing your teachers by sharing why you’re thankful and using #INCGiving on your posts in social media. And even though Teacher Appreciation Month is over, let’s keep celebrating them all summer long by helping them prepare for a new school year!

Here are 3 easy ways you can help teachers:

Support A Teacher Buying Pencils And Markers For Her Class [or tissues, sanitizing wipes, hand sanitizer those are always needed!]
Sponsor a School Supply Drive – Get your friends and coworkers in on the action. Contact a local school and find out what they need for the school year and get the word out.
Visit https://www.donorschoose.org/, an organization that helps make it easy for anyone to help local schools and teachers with a variety of projects including purchasing bilingual books for the classrooms, building classroom libraries and collecting art supplies for future projects.

Contributed By: INCGiving Project Team

Welcoming Refugees from DR Congo

Imagine living a life where your freedom and sense of security is taken away from you. There are many refugee families that have experienced much suffering and turmoil because of the wars that have been happening in The Democratic Republic of Congo. Due to the violence, many were forced to leave and relocate to refugee camps in Uganda.

Finding better opportunities in Canada

Many of those refugee families were fortunate enough to move to Canada to find better opportunities and a safe haven from struggles they experienced back in their home country. However, with this sudden transition come many challenges, such as learning new languages, adjusting to the climate, and dealing with culture shock. Indeed, it is very difficult to establish a new life but some took the risk for the sake of the future of their family.

Upon learning this, INCGiving volunteers decided to make this transition a little easier for these families by holding an INCGiving Outreach Program.

Creating a new community

INCGiving Volunteers, Fey and Dan Aviles, who have a friendly relationship with one of the families from Congo, stated that, “As I got to know her, and their family, I found them as religious people. That’s when we started to invite them to attend our bible studies. They are very involved during the preaching of the words of God.”

Much to their surprise, they consistently showed their interest in the words of God and continued to bring their whole household to hear the doctrines of the Church of Christ.

Realizing that many more refugees have recently arrived in Canada, this sparked an idea by the members in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, to conduct an Outreach Program.

Weeks before the Outreach event, the INCGiving volunteers gathered donations given by the brethren of the Local Congregation of Winnipeg South and Central Canada Region. They prepared relief bags; which contained non-perishable foods, such as canned foods and personal hygiene items. The volunteers also prepared clothes; especially ones that were suitable for the extreme weather conditions in Canada.

Faida Mbwiriza, who has been attending Bible studies invited many of her fellow countrymen was happy to see how welcoming all the volunteers were. When asked about those who she invited, Faida stated, “They liked the people here. And said they liked being here and really liked the people. I was happy to hear that too!”

Due to the current affairs happening throughout the globe, the members of the Church Of Christ have displayed an immense amount of effort in giving back to their community through the INC Giving Project. The INC Giving Outreach Program will continue to provide a lending hand to those in dire need.

In such a diverse community such as Canada’s, members of the Church of Christ stand as a whole in helping others despite cultural barriers.

Contributed by: Denisse Roque, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Contributing to ReLeaf Efforts

Nine year old Noelani sees wild blackberry bushes growing everywhere in her neighbourhood, and every summer she looks forward to picking and enjoying them. When she heard that her youth group, in the Church of Christ [Iglesia Ni Cristo] would be participating in an INCGiving event to replace invasive plants, she wanted to participate. The motivation behind her interest? She discovered that the very blackberry bushes she had grown to like were one of the invasive plants threatening her city’s rural forests.

Brethren from the Local Congregations of Delta and Surrey participate in the INCGiving Event Project ReLeaf

In celebration of National Tree Day, she joined her fellow Children’s Worship Service members at Panorama Park in Surrey, British Columbia to participate in Project Releaf. This initiative was launched by the City of Surrey in 1991, and since then over 10,000 plants and shrubs have been planted throughout Surrey’s communities.

Some tools to be used and trees that will be planted at the INCGiving Event Project ReLeaf.

Noelani and her fellow volunteers learned that, in order to benefit the habitat in Panorama Park, new native trees and shrubs need to be planted to replace invasive plants. Caitlin McDonald, a representative from the City of Surrey’s Parks Division, demonstrated how to remove the trees and shrubs from their pots and plant them in the earth. Once the demonstration was completed, the attentive volunteers all eagerly got to work. Over the next 90 minutes they worked alongside each other, sharing smiles and laughs and helped each other with tasks.

INCGiving volunteers listen intently to instructions given by the representative of the City of Surrey – Urban Forestry and Environmental Programs Section – Parks Division

From novices to experts with green thumbs, from the very young to the more mature, and from individuals to larger families, everyone enjoyed seeing the new trees and shrubs in their new, permanent homes. They all knew that, by each person contributing their small part, as a whole they were making a big impact to help the environment. More than 160 trees and shrubs, namely Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar, Red Alder, Big Leaf Maple, Osoberry, Salmonberry and Snowberry, were planted, and Caitlin thanked the volunteers for their help and hard work.

INCGiving volunteers, join together in planting trees during the Project ReLeaf Event.

Youth members help plant trees during the INCGiving Project, Project ReLeaf Event.

“We thought it was a really fun activity and Noelani was happy to help the environment and the community. I felt that we accomplished a lot because we planted 5 trees and plants together, and Noelani was able to learn how nice it feels to work together with her fellow youth to accomplish a goal. We’re proud that the Church of Christ continues to help the community and their fellow man by holding INCGiving events, and we’re just grateful to be able to participate.” – Paul Alegado, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada

Paul and Noelani Alegado plant trees during the INCGiving Event Project ReLeaf to cover an area where the invasive plant called the Himalayan blackberry used to be. These newly planted native trees and shrubs will provide valuable habitat for local wildlife.

Prior to this tree planting activity, Noelani would have been sad to see the blackberry bushes in her neighbourhood removed. It may take some time before that actually happens, but when it does, she’ll know that the environment is better for it, and she won’t miss picking and eating those blackberries so much.

Joshua and Cecille Assim plant trees during the INCGiving Event Project ReLeaf.

Siblings, Migo and AJ Ibanez work together to plant trees for the INCGiving Event Project ReLeaf.

Noelani will remember instead how much she enjoyed planting trees, how proud she felt when she participated with her fellow Church of Christ/Iglesia Ni Cristo members in helping their community and how the new plants will give much needed food and shelter to the Surrey’s wildlife now and for the future. She’ll remember that a little goes a long way.

Contributed by: Myrtle Alegado, Surrey, BC, Canada

Top Ten Episodes 2016

And here we are: Top Ten INCGiving Show Webisodes & Blog posts list of 2016!

Compiling this special list has helped The INCGiving Show team reflect on so much goodness in 2016. We really enjoyed looking back and remembering all of the great work that was featured on the show- and we especially were moved at the impact done by volunteers to those reached by the INCGiving Project.

The Top 10 List was compiled through several factors, which include number of views/statistics; social media shares; the feedback and stories from our viewers, readers and volunteer organizers; and also our own personal favorites. So although this list is not solely based on analytics, each episode that made the list was chosen with the intention to offer powerful insights and strategies to your INCGiving planning as you move into the new year.

If you have missed one of these episodes, make sure to watch by the end of January!

One last note: Of course NONE of this would be possible without the support of our beloved Church Administration, and the hard work of the Social Development Committees of the Christian Family Organizations for continuing to schedule the project for volunteers throughout the world. We also want to thank the District Multimedia Bureaus for documenting the journey and asking the questions that help us get to the heart of the matter each time we step out there to do good to those who need it.

So (cue the drumroll please…..) here they are: Top 10 INCGiving Episodes (and blogs) for 2016.

photo_2017-01-04_17-07-53 — #10: “Volunteers Team Up With Habitat For Humanity” Cocoa Beach, Florida (Season 3 – Episode 14)

Read the post here: incgiving.org

View the full Feature here: YouTube or INCMEDIA.org

The gist: INC volunteers from Cocoa Beach, Florida partnered with Southeast Volusia Habitat for Humanity to volunteer in the construction of homes for the less fortunate.

Why did this make the list?

This was the first official partnership of the INCGiving Project with an international organization such as Habitat for Humanity – the organization that works to build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter.

Our Cocoa Beach INCGiving volunteers gave us that inside look to the process of sharing a few Saturday hours with families actually building their own homes. To be exact: a selected team of 11 volunteers (with their families cheering them on from the sidelines) did good to three different families and three newly constructed homes.

If you’re planning on when to wear your INCGiving shirt in 2017, consider experiencing building a home with Habitat for Humanity– which has a huge need for volunteers.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-44 — #9: “Keeping OKC Beautiful” Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Season 4 – Episode 2)

Read the post here: incgiving.org

View the full Feature here: YouTube or incmedia.org

The gist: INC volunteers help keep the streets of Oklahoma City beautiful and introduce the Church of Christ to their neighbors

Why did it make the list?

One volunteer caught our ears and our hearts: Heather Blaylock. Sister Heather joined the Iglesia Ni Cristo in early 2016 – and already shared solid INC pride as she beautified the streets of Oklahoma that day.

“When you finally see the truth it’s just a wonderful feeling and you realize all the blessings that you’re given on a daily basis from God. I think that’s a big part of the reason why we got out into the neighborhood, because we wanted to share that with everybody.”–INCGIVING Volunteer Heather Blaylock

City Clean-ups are a standard practice for members of the Church of Christ. In 2016, more happened than were documented and we are grateful to the Multimedia Bureau in Southern Midwest for providing full coverage for their clean-up – which allowed all of us to meet Sister Heather.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-39 — #8: “Uplifted & Much Appreciated: A Teacher’s Perspective” Sunbury, London, England (Season 4 – Blog post 8)

Read the post here: incgiving.org

A related post: From the Student’s Perspective here: incgiving.org

View the full Feature: YouTube or INCMEDIA.org

The gist: A Nursery School Teacher shares her experience as an esteemed guest at the annual Teacher’s Appreciation Day in Heathrow, United Kingdom.

Why it made the list: Admittedly, we would have loved to have heard this lovely teacher’s description of her experience at Teacher’s Appreciation Day in her lovely British accent on video.

But we’re extremely thankful that she took the time on her summer holiday to write-up her experience.

“As a teacher of primary-aged children, it was refreshing to see a young person speaking so passionately and articulately.”– Ms. Louise Cowley

What were the young INC students speaking so passionately about? Head over to the blog to check it out. Check out the feature to see them singing passionately too.

Teacher’s Appreciation Day is a staple activity of the INCGiving Project– we have been sponsoring luncheons and awards ceremonies in their honor since 2011. Heathrow, London, UK has consistently held this activity every year since it started.

We can’t wait to see how teachers will be appreciated and uplifted in 2017.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-37 — #7: “The Station for Appreciation” Anaheim, California (Season 3 – Episode 13 )

View the feature here: YouTube or incmedia.org

The gist: Congregations of the INC have hosted Police & Firefighter Appreciation Days throughout 2016. See how officers of the Anaheim PD wanted to pay it forward, by preparing an act of kindness for the INC congregation in return.

Why it made the list: We are all about recognizing those who serve. Throughout the USA and around the world INCGiving volunteers have packed up lunches and goodie bags, certificates and plaques to boost the morale of law enforcement and fire safety officials.

The fact that the Anaheim Police Department was so touched that they took the time out of their busy days to come back to say “thank you” for our “thank you”? –That just makes it feel like the most awesome game of gratitude tag.

If you are ever in Anaheim, don’t forget to take a photo with their special thank you plaque and hashtag it #incgiving.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-34 — #6: “Kind Kids – Jaelyn Isip” Virginia Beach, VA (Season 3 – Episode 10)

View the full Feature here: YouTube or incmedia.org

The gist: At an early age, Jaelyn has learned the gift of giving by participating in INCGiving Project activities with her family. You will see this 8-year-old’s desire to share kindness of her own, in a special way.

Why it made the list: Kids always make the list with INCGiving! This little darling is surrounded by great examples of generosity and kindness- and at her young age, she knew she could choose to do good to others, too. In this story, we watch how she discovered a way that would work for her.

We can’t wait to see what other things Jaelyn, her family and all the other INCKids will be up to in 2017.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-32 — #5: “The Hope Brigade” Baton Rouge, LA (Season 4 – Episode 5)

View the full Feature here: incmedia.org

The gist: Over 60,000 homes in Louisiana were damaged or destroyed by terrible floods. Volunteers from the Southeastern United States region teamed together to lend a helping hand to flood victims in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and bring a message of hope.

Why it made the list: When horrible things happen on US soil- the whole world watches.

When these catastrophes take place within reach of the INCGiving project volunteers- we are there to lend a helping hand or a hug of hope.

The 2016 flood statistics were historic. Everyone affected had the contents of their homes out on the sidewalks. Regardless of stature, income, or age- all people in the flood damaged areas had to part ways with the contents of their homes. Their lives were changed.

INCGiving volunteers throughout neighboring states were organized quickly. The relief efforts on the ground helped provide hope to those who were reached. For those of us watching the story unfold we realized more contentment for what we have.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-30 — #4: Giving in Action: Dianne C. Lorido, Leadership Scholarship Sponsor (Season 3 – Episode 12)

View the full Feature here: YouTube or INCMedia.org

The gist: Watch how a young professional uses education to share her faith.

Why it made the list: Dianne C. Lorido is a young woman already finding ways to give back.

Many members of the Church of Christ could match her description: Loyal to her faith, disciplined in her studies, committed to serving God with many duties and offices in the Church, respectful to her parents and the role in her family, and decorated with honors and certificates of achievement at such an early age in life.

Yet, Dianne made time to accomplish one more item that no one actually expected of her- she set out to share the fruits of her labors to those like her, those in the pursuit of their educational aspirations.

Not many of us get the chance to speak on a platform to an audience of our peers, and when this young lady did – not only did she do the expected, which is that she inspired her listeners and expressed gratitude for those who have helped her along her journey. Dianne did the ultra-expected – she proudly proclaimed her membership in the Church of Christ as the number one factor to her success in life.

We could watch that triumphant moment on replay all day.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-27 — #3: “Giving the Gift of Life” Continental Blood Drive, North America (Season 3 – Episode 11) Read the post here: incgiving.org

Read the post here: incgiving.org

View the full Feature here: YouTube or incmedia.org

The gist: In cooperation with the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation, thousands of Church of Christ members throughout 137 sites of the United States and Canada partnered with local organizations to donate blood and sign up to be a part of the bone marrow registry.

Why it made the list: This was the highest turnout and most organized effort to date for a blood drive sponsored by the Church of Christ. Check out the coverage in the feature- there’s so much to be proud of!

This effort also included the bone marrow registry drive, and we at the INCGiving Show team are inspired by one of our own young sisters and her brave battle.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-23 — #2: “Finding Refuge From the Fire” Alberta, Canada (Season 3 – Episode 7) Read the different posts here: Lac la biche outreach outreach more outreach helping Fort McMurray

Read the different posts here: Lac la biche outreach outreach more outreach helping ft mcmurray

View the full Feature here: YouTube or incmedia.org

The gist: Nearly 100,000 Canadians in Alberta were forced to leave their homes and belongings behind as wildfire spread to Fort McMurray and its surrounding areas. After, it was said to have destroyed more than 1,600 homes and buildings, and the calamity forced residents into evacuation homes and searching for shelter. But for nearly 70 members of the Church of Christ, they fled to God, and found refuge in the comfort of their brothers and sisters in the faith.

Why it made the list: This type of natural disaster is absolutely terrifying. Seeing the fire engulfing entire communities would make one do a double take, Certainly this cannot be happening? The blazes look too much like what is forewarned to happen on the day of judgment.

But these stories of survival and gratitude are real. And the effort to help victims is heart-warming and in high volume.

There’s real faith in action – from the reaction of the survivors to the efforts of the INCGiving volunteers to come to their aid.

photo_2017-01-04_17-03-20 — #1: “INCGiving Project Launched in South Dakota” (Season 3 –Episode 2)

Read the post here: incgiving.org

View the full Feature here: YouTube or incmedia.org

The gist: The INCGiving Project in South Dakota was launched on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation near the Local Congregation of Scenic. Along with winter items, see how residents of Kyle, South Dakota received the words of God to warm their souls.

Why it made the list: All eyes have been on Scenic, South Dakota since 2011, when it made major news that the town was purchased by the Iglesia Ni Cristo.

The INCGiving Show got to deliver the beautiful news first of the first worship service and Bible studies held in Scenic, South Dakota earlier in 2016. The curiosity and excitement of the INC members was evident, this was the most shared and most watched episode in 2016.

We are inspired especially by the faith and intentions of volunteer Fred White who is working hard to do good in the town and neighboring towns of Scenic:

“Rural America knows nothing about the [Church of Christ]. So [INCGiving] is a great tool to propagate all over the world let alone in a rural area that can say yeah, we’re ranchers and farmers 20 miles from civilization and we know about the Church of Christ.” –Volunteer Fred White, Scenic, South Dakota

2016 has truly been a blessed year full of many milestones and accomplishments. For the first time INCGiving reached out to those in need in Milan, Italy. We partnered with more organizations to provide the volunteers. We appreciated many neighborhoods throughout North America.

As we move onward to further victories in 2017, we are grateful for all the INCGiving coordinators, volunteers and partnering organizations that help us each continue to do good to those who need it.

Caring For Our Coastline

Partnering with the Great Canadian Shoreline Clean Up, the #INCGiving volunteers in Victoria, British Columbia participated in a Shoreline Clean Up at Willows Beach. The hope of community events like this, is to educate residents and our neighbors to learn to take care of the environment; to help clean up marine debris and to encourage recycling.

Beaches everywhere are riddled with plastic & other debris – a shoreline epidemic that runs up and down the coast of Vancouver Island, as well as other beaches around the world. Plastic in the ocean leach toxins, which potentially enter our food chain, or is eaten by marine animals.

Human-created waste, whether deliberate or accidental – like dumping, container spills, litter washed into storm drains and waterways, and wind-blown landfill waste – contribute to this problem.

A recent article by onegreenplanet.org showed that the toxins that leach out from plastic are: BPA (Bisphenol-A) a known endocrine disruptor; phthalates – another endocrine disruptor; and styrene – a chemical found in styrofoam which may create respiratory problems when heated.

Styrofoam was part of the garbage collected and cleared during the shoreline clean up, along with small and big pieces of plastic, and cigarette butts By cleaning up the beaches of debris, we hope to reduce the amount of garbage and plastic that will ultimately end up in the ocean, thus keeping Earth healthy for future generations.

“I think that it brings us together and the benefit is it keeps the planet healthy,” stated by Jim H, a passerby.

All the volunteers were happy and excited to participate in this clean up, despite it being a weekend.

“It always makes me feel good when I’ve done something productive like this on a weekend instead of just sitting around at home all day. Doing this also helps me to appreciate the city that I live in.” stated by Jayper Sanchez – an INCGiving volunteer.

Appreciation of the beautiful neighborhood they lived in, motivates the INCGiving volunteers to ensure that Willows Beach and the environment will be taken cared of for future residents of their community.

Contributed by: Neil Duazo, Victoria, BC, Western Canada

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