Last April 12, 2026 marked the second grand event of the month-long celebration of The Lord’s Flock’s 40th Anniversary, “Across Generations, Beyond Borders. The “Grand Homecoming” had 235 “homecomers” (inactive members) and 445 active members in attendance at the Heritage Center. The joy of homecoming in a community fosters unity and strengthens the emotional bond among members, acting as a unifying force that remembers past friendships and shared experiences and, in effect, making individuals feel whole again.
Pioneer members – those who were with the Founders, “Tatay” Bobby Rodriguez and Sis. Techie ‘Soar” Rodriguez from the beginning in 1986, opened the celebration by welcoming the homecomers and guests with a joyful song at the registration area.
Moderators, Sis. Judith Almendrala (Steward – Outreach Ministry) and Bro. Riccon Leonardo (homecomer), enthusiastically welcomed the attendees to the main program which officially started with songs of praise and worship led by Sis. Judith and the Psalm Ministry. They were joined by former Psalm Ministry members (homecomers) much to the audience’s delight, in singing a familiar medley of songs through the decades, animating the atmosphere and stirring up nostalgia. The opening set the tone for the entire event, a Spirit-filled homecoming celebration characterized by deep worship through historical familiar songs that made the homecomers especially emotional. The joy of listening to an old song is often less about the music itself but more about the emotional time capsule it opens.
Bro. Riccon and Sis Judith did a quick survey of the crowd through a roll call by decade of membership, by service ministry and by oikos. They then presented the TLF primer and a recap of Founders’ Day to keep inactive members abreast of the happenings that they missed over the years. A moment of silence and prayer was observed in remembrance of faithfully departed members.
Welcome Remarks of the Council of Founders
Sis. Techie Rodriguez (Elder-Founder), highlighted that the community is not merely an organization but a living testimony to God’s faithfulness, which is the very legacy entrusted to us. She recalled God’s promise to be with His people wherever they go and to bring them home in due season (Genesis 28:15).
In addition, Bro. Bobby Rodriguez (Elder-Founder) encouraged the people to not lose heart in the face of challenges, misunderstandings, or opposition as these are not signs of failure but opportunities for God to reveal His power and refine our character.
Meanwhile, Bro. Froilan Hong (Co-founder) invited everyone to call to mind their old lives prior to surrendering to God. He likewise urged the audience to listen closely to the Holy Spirit for guidance in everything.
Fun Games
The energy kicked up a notch with fun games hosted by the powerful duo of Bro. Jolo Baclig and Bro. Nelson Payos. They read a series of statements one by one which prompted members of the audience to stand up if they can relate to it. During the popular game, “Bring Me,” the game masters asked the audience for old Lord’s Flock items such as ID’s, t-shirts, class cards, music book, photos, and even the elders themselves. The crowd gamely participated and enjoyed the segment.
Presentation of the Pioneer Psalm Members (Hallel Band)
Thereafter, the mood turned heartwarming with the Pioneer Psalm Ministry (circa 1986 – 1990s) singing the timeless songs, “In His Time” and “Diyos ay Pag-ibig” with the Elders-Founders who were seated onstage. Bro. Bobby sang along when his favorite song, “In His Time,” was played. Then, Bro. Francis Jonathan Sumayao, one of the pioneer vocalists, rendered a Filipino version of the song “Power of Love.”
Subsequently, the music turned upbeat with a special dance number by both the previous “Psalm Action Dancers” and the new “Koros Members” to the song “Sing Out.” This was followed by the TLF choir who sang the Harvest Song composed by Bro. Noel Milan. Members of T.U.P.A. (Dulaang Teatrong Ugnay sa Pangkristiyanong Adhikain), Sheepfold and the Executive Committee performed “People of Faith.”
Lastly, the new heartwarming “Homecoming Song” composed by Bro. Riccon was played as the Koros Ministry led the community to joyfully dance along.
People of Faith Harvest Song
Sing Out
Fellowship
After the heart filling program, a feast of Jollibee hamburger and spaghetti were served at the Events Place. The attendees saw this as the perfect opportunity to get in touch with one another, exchanging fond memories of the community over the years. Indeed, it was an afternoon filled with comfort, laughter, and fellowship.
Some homecomers wholeheartedly shared their feelings about the event:
- Belinda Elarmo (MWSS Chapter): “I’m glad I was able to attend the homecoming. It triggers my desire to attend and join the Lord’s Flock Community again.”
- Maricele Realo (Palanan Chapter): “The homecoming evoked in me spiritual nostalgia. My heart is filled with deep gratitude. I may be inactive, but in my parish ministry, I try to bring our parishioners [to the community].”
- Ever Luna Montana (Psalm Ministry): “Happy and blessed na naka-atend ako ulit at nakapag-serve at nakita ang mga dati kong kasama sa Psalm.”
- Cocoy Almendrala (Disciple): “Masaya ako na nakarating ako ngayon at nakita ko ang aking mga dating kaklase sa Disciple class. I’m blessed to be here.”
- Rose Lira-Daguno (MWSS Chapter): “Awesome! Ang galing ng program. I’m so happy and grateful at minsan pang nadampian ng kaluwalhatian ng Diyos through our Elders with their physical touch.”
At the end of the day, the hearts of the Founders-Elders were overflowing with joy and gratitude at seeing the inactive members reconnect with the community during this 40th Foundation Day celebration. May the memories created together fuel everyone’s commitment to keep the The Lord’s Flock’s legacy alive. And may everyone always feel the welcoming embrace of God and extend the same fervent love to others.
To God be the glory!
Scribes Ministry
Written by: Thess P. Sarmiento (Scribes and Mission Ministry)
Edited by: Jane B. Lico (Steward – Scribes)
