“Great is God’s Faithfulness!” was the theme of the 26^th Anniversary celebration of Food for the Hungry International Philippines.  The celebration was held last November 18, 2004 at the Plaza Moriones, Fort Santiago Manila, a historic place in the heart of Manila.

Friends and partners of FHI Philippines graced the occasion numbering a total of 250. The simple and heart warming event exalted God and His work through FHI. Everybody was touched by the challenging speech of FHI Local Board President Mrs. Perla Cenon, A short excerpt of her speech reads:

”Tonight, we are celebrating the 26^th Anniversary of FHI. Oh, what marvellous things God has done and is doing.

When I consider our journey past, present, and future, I’m drawn to a Biblical character who also began a journey. The bible says, “By faith Abraham when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance, and he went out, not knowing where he was going.”

I’m reminded that there are two perspectives in that verse. Abraham’s faith and God’s faithfulness. As we continue our journey, it is good for us to view the future the same way. Faith does not know where it is being led. Faith obeys, loves, and knows the one who is leading.

Our faith is not based on our human intellect or reasoning but we know, we trust, and we obey God who has called us.

With God on our journey anything is possible, his grace is sufficient, his peace will calm our hearts, and his help is immediate in our time of need. Wherever he leads, we must be committed to go.

Let us continue to look into the future with faith knowing that God is faithful. I trust that is where your heart is.”

Special numbers were given by Joshua Albert Villanueva, Marimbist from temple Hills International School; selected children from CDP Center 025 Tangos, Navotas; and Jett, former CDP child and member of Philippines Hope Choir.

Special recognition was given to the founder and first Director of FHI/Philippines, Mrs. Ester Pangindian.  A posthumous award was also given to Mrs. Elsa Tuason as the second Director of FHI/Philippines. This was received by his son John Lyndon Tuason.

Service awards were given to Mrs. Debbie Sayo Toribio for her 22 years service to FHI/Philippines; Leony Agana, 15 years of service and Laura Montiero 15 years of service.

1^st National Bible Quiz winners were recognized and awarded with a copy of Bibles donated by the Philippine Bible Society.

The thanksgiving culminated with a simple agape meal.

To God be the glory!