by Carlota Ader
The spirit of Christmas permeated the air at the Waipahu Community Christian Church (WCCC) with the much-anticipated Pasko Sa Nayon celebration held on December 7.
Everywhere the 150 attendees went on the church grounds, it felt and looked a lot like Christmas—an authentic Filipino-style Christmas to be exact. There were traditional Filipino decorations, dishes, cultural dances, and a variety of games that included sungka, musical chairs, guessing games, and other contests. In addition, there was a barong Tagalog, terno, kimona, and Maria Clara gown contest for both adults and children. Winners were awarded a bevy of prizes.
One of the highlights of the evening was the beautiful parol contest with several iconic Filipino star-shaped lanterns on display. The main rule was that the parol had to be homemade.
Another highlight was a store-like display complete with various goods and products made in the Philippines, including wooden spoons and forks, popcorn, snacks, and other everyday items. One attendee who dropped by the display said it felt like she was “going to the local store in the Philippines.”
According to Tito Gerolaga, WCCC executive director and ministry consultant, Christmas is the biggest and longest celebrated holiday in the Philippines.
“The Pasko sa Nayon festival is a cultural blend of Christianity and indigenous traditions,” he said. “The event was infused with the vibrant Filipino spirit and was for people from all different ethnic backgrounds and ages to enjoy.”
However, Gerolaga said the purpose of the event was to not just celebrate a Filipino-style Christmas but to remember the true meaning of Christmas.
“The Christmas season is all about God’s love,” he said. “God sent His son Jesus to take the punishment for our sins so that we could spend eternity with him.”
Guest speaker Pastor Albert Camacho delivered a dynamic and heart-rending message entitled “The Greatest Love of All.” He concluded with encouragement and a call for unbelievers to repent and believe in the Gospel. Multiple visitors were responsive to the altar call and prayed the Sinner’s Prayer for forgiveness and salvation.
Several attendees are looking forward to a sequel next year, while others from another church requested assistance to plan a similar event for their community.
“We prayed that God would bless the event and that He be glorified,” Gerolaga said. “Christians are part of a larger, interconnected spiritual family who should support each other and work together to fulfill God’s purposes.”
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