THE BUKIDNON Fellowship of Congregational Churches (BFCC) has issued a statement addressing a crisis within its community following the eviction of churchgoers and the padlocking of church gates in Valencia, Bukidnon.
The BFCC also alleged that the ideology of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) has infiltrated the church, causing discord and division.
Despite these challenges, the BFCC remains steadfast in its faith. On June 30, 2024, they gathered approximately 1,000 members at the Valencia City gym to celebrate their faith and foster connection.
The BFCC, formed as a united front by church workers and members to uphold the principles of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP), emphasizes the autonomy of local churches and champions a mission of reclaiming, restoring, rebuilding, and reviving their communities through faith.
The crisis came to a head in February when church leaders evicted members from UCCP Liloan in Valencia and subsequently padlocked the gates of UCCP Kawayan in San Fernando.
This forced congregations to seek alternative places of worship. Attempts at reconciliation through dialogue failed, with the bishop notably absent from the discussions.
The BFCC asserts that these actions reflect a broader, insidious influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF ideology, which they believe is undermining the core values of their faith and community.
In their statement, the BFCC expresses solidarity with affected churches and reaffirms their commitment to Christ’s teachings and the autonomy of local congregations.
They call upon all UCCP members to join them in prayer and action to reclaim their churches, restore unity, rebuild their communities, and revive their commitment to service.
They also urge their leaders to reflect upon their actions and return to what they see as the true path of Christ.
With faith in God’s grace, the BFCC remains optimistic that they can overcome this adversity and emerge stronger in their faith and fellowship.
