177th Relief Society Anniversary

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Photos: Bro. Bernard Pilapil

In celebration of the 177th Relief Society Anniversary, the stake RS organization held an activity that promotes camaraderie among sisters and acquiring skills necessary for their livelihood. The “Kabuhayan para sa Magandang Kinabukasan” activity took place last March 16th, 2:00 in the afternoon at Buendia Chapel.

The activity was conducted by Sister Shay Blanco, Stake Relief Society 1st Counselor, with President Stephen Notarte as the one presiding. The opening hymn was Hymn #241 Count Your Blessings with Sis Diane Butuhan as chorister and Sis Marion Melendres on the piano, followed by an invocation offered by Sis Dinah Mutuc. The theme, to be found on Doctrine and Covenants 81:5 was presented by Sis Connie Macababayao, 2nd Counselor of Stake RS with sisters gathering round with cakes singing the Happy Birthday song as a way of celebrating the organization’s anniversary. After which, Sis Bing Ballada, Stake RS President, warmly welcomed everyone with her remarks.

The sisters then engaged in a rigorous zumba exercise where everyone surely enjoyed. Closing the first part of the program, President Stephen Notarte shared his remarks followed by singing Hymn #252 Put Your Shoulder To The Wheel and a benediction by Sis Maribel Garma.

“We congratulate you sisters for this historical event in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints, as we commemorate

the founding of the Relief Society by the Prophet Joseph Smith on March 17, 1842. One of the Relief Society General President asked,

"what are we celebrating?” “We are celebrating who we are and what our work is. We are celebrating those who have gone before.

And we are celebrating our purpose. Your theme for this activity “Kabuhayan para sa magandang kinabukasan” is a perfect example of

applying it’s principles. May you continually ask our Heavenly Father to guide you each day with an opportunity to lift, serve and minister

to our Brothers and sisters.”

- President Stephen Notarte, 1st Counselor, Makati Philippines Stake

The second part of the activity involved the booths wherein each of the sisters by ward prepared various products and services that they can offer. Makati 1st demonstrated their talents when it comes to baking their pastries, and then handed some for the sisters to have a free taste. Meanwhile, Makati 2nd shared their products such as mini terrariums, scented candles, and perfumes. As for Makati 3rd, they gave out free massages and instructions on how to do such. Makati 4th gave the sisters some tips and tutorials when it comes to video blogging and Mandaluyong 4th showcased their rugs, bedsheets, pillowcases and other handmade crafts. The activity ended on such a good note that some even chose to stay for another round of zumba. We all have witnessed the unity among the sisters and there was surely joy and learning within their hearts as they all went home.