When I went inside the church, I thought that it becomes smaller. Because I have the impression that it was bigger since the last time I went there which was around more than 12 years ago. One by one familiar faces approached us, but besides the relatives and the Jucal’s, I do not remember the others.

Manong Alpha led the lesson study and because the assigned elder was in Manila at that time, he was still asked to be the speaker for the divine service. They have to grab the opportunity since its been a long time since he last visited his home church. Jimer rendered the special number, Manong Eman the presiding elder, Manang Fe the offertory and Joy-joy for the homily. It’s more or less a family program he he he. We were able to meet Paris, Sally and Adonis Jucal, long time acquiantance way back in Pasig.

After the service, we all went to Tiya’ys place where we all had our mini reunion. We’re all glad to be able to meet the elders, Auntie and Tiya’y and for them to see the girls and Rabin, especially for Auntie.

Then the reading begun, starting from the head elder. Names were being mentioned, almost the same as this year’s list. My husband was elected as deacon and head of music department, and I gave him a challenging look if he will be able to finish the two years, not to mention finishing the first year alone. Then of all the names that will be mentioned, I heard my name being included in the list. Not once but several times! I am one of the teachers in the children’s division and head of the education department, which means I am a member of the church board as well as the school board. This really is a big surprise for me because I know that every year they’ve been trying to elect me, but every year they cannot because I am not a member, that’s why I was wondering what happen in the nominating committee meeting? It was announced also that for those who has question regarding the list may approach the committee in the afternoon.

So I returned in the afternoon, and found that there are at least 3 people waiting for their turn to have an audience with the committee. When it’s my turn, I explained to them that I am not a member that’s why they cannot elect me to any office. They told me that they recognize that I have a potential to hold an office (well that’s an understatement!) and there’s no one else to vote for since there’s a lack of suitable members to be elected in the first place. I explained to them that I am doing the appeal because I know that we all want the proper procedure to be followed for this very important activity, and I couldn’t let the reputation of the committee to be in question just because of this technicality. The committee encouraged me to transfer my membership since there’s still 3 months to go, and I told them I have to think about it adding that I do not have to hold a position for me to serve the Lord. I left hoping that a wise and just decision will come out, especially for my appeal.