Does the Church of Christ Use Music?

On August 2, 2026, an estimated 5,000 people filled a convention center in Lucena City, Quezon, for an evening of songs, a trade fair, and a message read aloud from the church's leader. They were not there for a pop star. They were there for a church anniversary. Iglesia Ni Cristo calls this kind of event an INConcert, and it has become one of the most common ways its congregations celebrate. This post explains what an INConcert is, what happens during one, and why music plays such a big role in the church.

What is an INConcert?

It is a concert held by a church district or local congregation, usually to mark an anniversary. The name is a play on the word concert with the church's initials. According to Pasugo, the church's magazine, performers sing original songs written within the church, so you will not hear many outside hits.

The event is not just entertainment. It is built as a mix of prayer, music, and remembering. Reports often describe an opening prayer, a few welcome remarks, a message from the Executive Minister read by a district minister, a series of songs, and a closing prayer.

That structure matters. It tells you the concert is treated as part of church life, not a separate show.

What does a typical INConcert look like?

Take the Butuan City Congregation, which marked its 75th anniversary on June 14, 2026, at a hotel in Butuan City. The program began with a prayer, followed by the Executive Minister's message. Then performers from several church groups sang. A video about the congregation's pioneers was shown, and everyone sang together at the end.

In Marikina, the Sta. Ana Congregation held its INConcert on December 23, 2025, for its 73rd anniversary. The event took place at a stadium in San Mateo, Rizal, and shared the day with a family fun day. Between songs, the audience watched short videos with faith stories from pioneer members, converts, and parents.

A similar format appeared in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, on May 30, 2025. That congregation was established on May 15, 1935, and members of all ages performed at the 90th anniversary event.

Is there more than music?

Often, yes. In Pasong Camachile, Cavite, the 95th anniversary concert on March 15, 2026, opened with a ribbon-cutting for a photo exhibit tracing the congregation's history from 1931. And in Angeles City on August 16, 2026, a trade fair ran before the evening show, with booths from the church's family organizations.

So an INConcert doubles as a reunion. People come early, look at old photos, buy something at a booth, and then sit down to listen.

Who sings and plays?

Mostly members. Choir members, youth groups, and even children take the stage. The Pampanga North concert ended with children from the Children's Worship Service singing one song, followed by two bands from the church's music department performing another.

The church also has a production company whose talents help lead some concerts. In Pasong Camachile, performers from that company joined select members of the congregation.

This mix of trained talent and everyday volunteers explains the feel of these events. Some performers are polished, and others are neighbors who practiced after work. Audiences seem to enjoy both.

What do the songs talk about?

They are mostly about faith, thanks, and sticking together. Song titles from the reports give a good sense of it. One is called Hindi ka pababayaan ng Diyos, which means God will not abandon you. Another, Lagi Tayong Magpakatatag, means let us always remain firm. A third is Salamat po, Ka Eduardo, a thank-you to the current Executive Minister.

The songs come in Filipino and English. That choice makes sense for a church with members in many countries, where not everyone speaks Tagalog.

I will not quote any lyrics here, since those belong to the church. If you want to hear the music, the church's official media sites are the best place to start.

Do INConcerts happen outside the Philippines?

They do. Pasugo reports an INConcert in Logan, Australia, on September 28, 2025, for that congregation's 10th anniversary. Taiwan held one for its 10th anniversary as well, paired with a photo exhibit. In July 2024, three districts in Europe held concerts to celebrate the church's 110th anniversary.

The pattern follows the church's growth. Wherever a congregation reaches a milestone, an INConcert becomes a natural way to mark it.

Why does the church put so much into music?

Members of Iglesia Ni Cristo interviewed in these reports give simple answers. A choir member in Lucban said it is important to remember history so the group can understand and appreciate its roots. A performer in Cavite said her singing was a way to inspire fellow members to stay steady in their service to God.

There is also a practical side. Songs are easy to share, easy to remember, and easy to teach to children. A concert brings generations into one room, which is hard to do with a sermon alone.

One caution. Almost every account here comes from the church's own news pages, so it reflects how the church sees itself. The dates and places are specific, which makes them easy to check.

Final thoughts

So, what is an INConcert? It is an anniversary concert where prayer, music, and local history come together. Whether a few hundred people attend or several thousand, the format stays about the same. For anyone curious about how Iglesia Ni Cristo celebrates together, these events are a friendly place to start learning. The church's official news pages list upcoming and recent concerts if you want to see one for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does INConcert mean?
It is the church's name for an anniversary concert held by a district or local congregation.

What kind of music is played?
The performers sing original songs written within the church, in Filipino and English.

Who performs at these concerts?
Choir members, youth groups, children, and select talents, including bands from the church's music department.

Are INConcerts held abroad?
Yes. Reports mention concerts in Australia, Taiwan, and Europe.

Is it only music?
No. Many include prayers, a message from the Executive Minister, video presentations, photo exhibits, and trade fairs.