On January 31, 2026, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints joined the Manila Church People Ecumenical Fellowship (MCPEF) and leaders from diverse Christian traditions in observing the Day of Prayer for Christian Unity, affirming a shared commitment to faith, peace, and mutual respect.
Held under the theme “One Body and One Spirit… One Hope,” from Ephesians 4:4, the gathering brought together church leaders, clergy, and representatives from various denominations to celebrate unity in Jesus Christ despite differences in doctrine and tradition.
President Janryll Fernandez, president of the Manila Mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered the keynote message. He emphasized the vital role faith-based communities play in shaping society through education, healthcare, and humanitarian service. He noted that Christian institutions and charities have long helped care for the poor, educate the young, and heal the sick, reminding participants that without people of faith, society risks losing its moral compass.
President Fernandez taught that while churches may differ in practice, they are united by shared values—faith in Jesus Christ, love of family, integrity, compassion, and service. He invited participants to strengthen unity by beginning in “the most basic places—in our hearts, in our homes, and in our congregations.” Quoting the Savior’s words in Matthew 25, he testified that serving “the least of these” is, in truth, serving Jesus Christ Himself.
President Fernandez was accompanied by his wife, Sister Liberty and Bishop Ralph Concepcion of Manila 1st Ward.
Other faith leaders echoed this message of unity and Christ-centered service.
Reverend Pastor Kenneth Aguilera, of Iglesia Unida Ekyumenikal, reminded participants that respect and friendship must guide relationships among believers. “We all belong to one big family of Christ,” he said, emphasizing that friendship transcends religious affiliation and strengthens unity among Christians.
Bishop Bellaser “Kiko” Herrera, from the Independent Eastern Catholic Church, shared that his understanding of Jesus Christ brought wisdom rooted in God’s righteousness. He cautioned against self-righteousness, noting that humility and reliance on God’s grace are essential to preserving unity among believers.
Bishop Joseph Galaroza, representing the Brazilian Catholic Church, spoke of a commitment to serve all Christians—across denominations and traditions—“to serve to the fullest for God’s glory.” His remarks underscored the shared responsibility of Christian communities to minister with love, inclusivity, and devotion.
The program included an Ecumenical Liturgy participated in by heads and representatives of the churches, followed by a reaffirmation of the One Ecumenical Family Statement. The gathering reflected camaraderie, friendship, and a collective resolve to remain united in faith and action.
The Manila Church People Ecumenical Fellowship expressed appreciation to all who participated in the observance. Member organizations include: Malate Roman Catholic Church–Our Lady of Remedies; The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; Iglesia Filipina Independiente; United Church of Christ in the Philippines; Iglesia Unida Ekyumenical; Episcopal Church in the Philippines; Holy Orthodox Catholic Church of Jesus Christ; Independent Eastern Catholic Church; Charismatic Episcopal Church; Igreja Católica Apostólica Brasileira (Brazilian Catholic); The Traditionalist Roman Catholic Church of Australia Latin Rite Sui Juris; Focolare Movement; Laudato Si Movement–Philippines; Fishers for Christ; Institute of Spirituality in Asia; The Wednesday Forum; Quezon City Ecumenical Fellowship; South Metro Manila Ecumenical Fellowship; True Life in God; Anawim Misyon para sa Mahihirap, Inc.; Carmelite Sisters; Salvatorian Sisters; Carmelite Missionary Secular; Immaculate Heart of Mary–Claretian Missionaries; Mabuhay Buddhist Temple; UniHarmony Manila; and Iglesia Evangelica Metodista En Las Islas Filipinas.
Participation in the Day of Prayer for Christian Unity reflects The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ ongoing commitment to interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Through partnerships with faith-based organizations across the Philippines, the Church seeks to build understanding, promote moral values, and serve communities in ways that uplift individuals and families.