Farewell Ka Erdy
It was a pluvial and lonely Saturday night when I headed to Ka Erdy’s wake along with my family. I wanted to go there by the time the news of his death broke, but due to some mundane reason I was not able to get there. So that night, I prodded myself to visit ka Erdy. The number of brethrens who have gathered at Iglesia Ni Cristo temple was overwhelming. It seemed that people were oblivious of the rain and the long queue which stretched from Central Avenue down to the grounds of New Era University. Everyone wants to see Ka Erdy just so they could pay their last respects.  Just like me, many of those who have waited at the queue were seeing Ka Erdy for the first time. It took us more than five hours to reach his casket, but it was worth it!
Brother Eraño G. Manalo passed away last August 31, just as the country was observing National Heroes Day. He passed away at the age of 84 due to cardiopulmonary arrest. The official announcement of his death came the following day to give time for the family to mourn. It came as a shock to every brethrens. Brother Bienvenido C. Santiago, INC spokesperson, made the announcement on NET-25 and GEM-TV:
It is with deep regret and sorrow that I inform the entire membership of the Iglesia ni Cristo and the nation that our beloved leader, our Executive Minister, Brother Eraño G. Manalo passed away. We request the ministers and evangelical workers, church officers and members of the Iglesia ni Cristo to pray to God for His continued guidance for the whole church and to give us strength to enable us to bear this terrible loss and grief.
For INC members, Â Ka Erdy is more than just the Executive Minister. He is a father figure and a dynamic leader. He worked tirelessly for the Church and served as a moral guide. His 46 years of leadership is truly inspiring. He took the leadership of the ministry after the death of Ka Felix. He preserved the Biblical doctrines to which the Church was anchored on and maneuvered the flock to where it is now. His leadership is instrumental for spreading the faith. At present, the Church has reached 90 countries and territories, with members representing 102 nationalities.
Ka Erdy, you will be deeply missed. Salamat po!
sir! i like this post.
Sarah Mamaradlo
Of AAPD-1B.