The promise that [the Lord will] “remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and [will] bring forth [His] word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth” has come to pass as the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Philippines gathered to witness the creation of the 100th stake in the country.
The Mandaluyong Philippines Stake, the newest stake that was created, branched off from the very first stake that was established in the Philippines 44 years ago—the Manila Philippines Stake.
To celebrate the occasion, more than 600 individuals performed at a special cultural event at the KIA Theater last September 9, 2017 that was led by Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Speaking to the participants that night, he said: “We will never forget this night. I hope you won’t either.” He added, “What do you learn from these kinds of experiences? You learn of all that is good about life.”
At the creation of the 100th stake the following day, Elder Andersen talked about this milestone and emphasized the important role that the country has in hastening the work of the Lord. “Why among all the nations of the earth “has the Savior set his feet so firmly here in the Philippines?” he asked. “It is because of who you are. He continued to commend the members for their unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and in His gospel. “This is a special place. Do not underestimate who you are. … The most important part of the Philippines is the people,” he added.
In attendance were members who joined the church during its early years. Sister Nenita Gapiz, the fifth person that was baptized after missionary work has commenced, couldn’t contain her joy as she reminisced her experiences as a pioneer. “I have seen a lot of milestones during the course of my life, and seeing the 100th stake created is just a testimony that the work moves forward,” she shared.
Ruel Lacanieta, Olangapo Philippines Mission President, expressed his gratitude for witnessing this important event. “Having joined the church at a young age and to have served in the first mission that was created, I can say that it is such a blessing to be able to take part in this and witness the growth of the church,” he said.
Noel Delos Reyes Placer, the first stake president of the newly formed Mandaluyong Philippines Stake, has high hopes for the growth and progress of not only the stake, but of the individuals who belong in it. “Of course we hope to achieve the goals that we will set as a stake, but our vision ultimately is to focus on people—our members, investigators and especially our priesthood holders. This is how I think the stake will grow,” he concluded.
Finale number with all participants.
Elder Andersen and Elder Soares congratulate the participants.
Elder Andersen announces the 100th stake in the Philippines.
The choir renders a special song number during the special conference.
Members listen to the message of Elder Andersen.