By Karren Jay G. Asgar
Recipients of the God’s Grace Program, along with Dr. Evangelica Diesto-Padernilla, a member of the God’s Grace Committee, and Ms. Joan S. Castor, GGP Secretary, gather in a photo opportunity following the Second Worship Service titled “God’s Grace Sunday.”
On February 9, 2025, a Second Worship Service titled ‘God’s Grace Sunday’ was held at the University Church, in line with the tradition of dedicating every second Sunday of February to the God’s Grace Program.
Mr. Alejo Gemanga served as the Worship Leader for the service, while Ms. Joan S. Castor provided updates and shared important information about the ongoing God’s Grace program.
“Thank you for the support and prayers for the continuation and expansion of the Work Students God’s Grace Program. We experienced increasing support for the program by the congregation beginning last year. Suggestions for the improvement of the God’s Grace Program are greatly appreciated. The campaign for support by the God’s Grace Committee members is ongoing,” Ms. Castor said.
One of the God’s Grace Program recipients, Sam Joshua Diamante, expressed his heartfelt gratitude through his testimony, taking the opportunity to emphasize his deep appreciation for the ongoing and consistent support that he and others have received as beneficiaries of the program. He shared how this support has positively impacted his life and the lives of his fellow work students in the community.
Afterward, the CPUAA-Midwest USA Chapter, represented by their President, Yolanda ‘Yoly’ Peñacerrada-Jain, presented a donation of $1,500 to the God’s Grace Program. In her message, she shared, “Every year during our Christmas party in Chicago, we collect a love offering for the worthy cause as a yearly commitment to this program. God’s Grace Program is very close to my heart.”
The recipients of the God’s Grace Program delivered a heartfelt performance of the song ‘Only by His Grace.’ The speaker for the worship service was Rev. Franz Hestia Lovejoy Q. Leysa, who delivered a powerful message on the theme ‘Ripples of God’s Love.’
“We have to understand that we all have differences – our personalities, our values, priorities even our background… Well, the apostle Paul knew how hard it is; that’s why he explained to the Corinthians what love is: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
After the worship service, the recipients of the God’s Grace Program were treated to a special lunch at Pani Hall in the Christian Education building, joined by committee members and donors.