Honoring Apostle Arsenio Ferriol — A tribute to a spiritual leader
IN a moving tribute that spanned nearly a month, thousands gathered to honor the life and legacy of Apostle Arsenio Ferriol, founder of the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch), who passed away on May 19, 2024.
Apostle Ferriol’s memorial service began with a 14-day period of mourning, where congregants from the Philippines and across the world paid their respects. The solemn gatherings were characterized by prayer, reflection, and testimonials about the profound impact Apostle Ferriol had on their lives.
Many recounted his unwavering faith, his commitment to spreading the gospel, and his compassionate nature. Following the period of mourning, another 14 days were dedicated to celebrating Apostle Ferriol’s life and works. These days were filled with joyous commemorations, featuring choir performances, reenactments of his missionary journeys, and the sharing of his teachings. The atmosphere was one of gratitude and reverence, as followers remembered the milestones he achieved in his ministry and the countless lives he touched.
Apostle Ferriol founded the PMCC (4th Watch) in 1973, with a vision to bring people closer to God through a strong foundation of faith and community service.
Under his guidance, the church grew exponentially, establishing over 1000 churches and reaching over 70 countries around the world.
His leadership was marked by a deep commitment to missionary work, social justice, and education. Leading the memorial services and the subsequent celebrations was Bishop Jonathan Ferriol, Apostle Arsenio’s son.
In his eulogies and addresses, Bishop Jonathan emphasized the enduring nature of his father’s mission and reassured the congregation of the family’s dedication to continue serving God and the community.
“My father’s legacy is not just in the churches he built, but in the hearts and souls he touched,” Bishop Jonathan said.
“We will continue his work with the same passion and dedication, spreading the message of love and hope that he so fervently believed in.”
The conclusion of the memorial and celebratory period saw a final service where Apostle Ferriol was laid to rest. The service was attended by church leaders, politicians, and dignitaries, reflecting the wide-reaching influence of his ministry.
In a heartfelt farewell, Bishop Jonathan led the final prayer, invoking blessings for his father’s eternal peace and for the strength to carry forward his mission.
Apostle Arsenio Ferriol leaves behind a rich legacy of faith, compassion, and community service. As the PMCC (4th Watch) moves forward under the leadership Chief Executive minister, Bishop Jonathan Ferriol, it remains a testament to Apostle Ferriol’s vision and lifelong dedication to God’s work. His spirit will continue to inspire generations to come, ensuring that his contributions to the faith community endure long into the future.
The passing of Apostle Ferriol not only marked a significant moment for the PMCC (4th Watch) but also served as a reflective period for many to evaluate their own spiritual journeys and commitments. His teachings, which emphasized humility, service, and unwavering faith, have become the guiding principles for many who followed his path.
As the church transitions into a new chapter, there is a renewed sense of purpose and direction. Bishop Jonathan, carrying forward his father’s mantle, has already plotted new initiatives together with the rest of the family and church leaders, aimed at expanding the church’s outreach programs and enhancing community services. This includes the establishment of educational scholarships, healthcare missions, and disaster relief efforts, ensuring that the church remains a beacon of hope and support for those in need.
In the weeks following the memorial, the church has seen an influx of new members, drawn by the compelling narrative of Apostle Ferriol’s life and the enduring message of love and hope that he championed. The community remains united, with congregants actively participating in various church activities, from Bible studies and prayer groups to volunteer programs and missionary work.
One of the most notable legacies of Apostle Ferriol is the emphasis on education. The church continues to support numerous educational institutions, providing quality education to underprivileged children and fostering a new generation of leaders grounded in faith and morality. The annual scholarship program, named in honor of Apostle Ferriol, has enabled countless young individuals to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams.
Looking ahead, the PMCC (4th Watch) is poised to expand its international presence further, with plans to establish new congregations in regions previously unreached. Bishop Jonathan Ferriol’s vision includes leveraging modern technology to spread the gospel, utilizing social media and online platforms to connect with a global audience.
In this new era, the church remains anchored in the values that Apostle Arsenio Ferriol instilled. His teachings continue to resonate, reminding followers that true spiritual fulfillment comes from a life dedicated to serving others and upholding the principles of justice, compassion, and faith.
As the community moves forward, it does so with the assurance that Apostle Ferriol’s spirit guides them. His legacy, deeply embedded in the hearts of those he touched, ensures that his mission of spreading God’s love and hope will continue to thrive, inspiring future generations to walk the path of righteousness and service.
The tribute to Apostle Arsenio Ferriol is not just a remembrance of a remarkable leader but a celebration of a life lived in complete devotion to faith and community. His story, an enduring testament to the power of spiritual leadership, will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide the faithful for many years to come.