THE IGLESIA Filipina Independiente (IFI) and the Episcopal Church in the Philippines (ECP) marked the 28th anniversary of their Concordat of Full Communion with a solemn celebration at the Cathedral of St. Michael the Archangel in Bacoor City, Diocese of Cavite on February 17, 2025.
Signed on February 17, 1997, at St. Andrew’s Theological Seminary, the IFI-ECP Concordat reaffirmed the strong relationship between the two Churches, which traces back to the 1961 Concordat between the Philippine Independent Church (PIC) and The Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States of America (PECUSA).
The Concordat celebration coincided with the 153rd anniversary of the martyrdom of Fathers Mariano Gomes, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora, known as GomBurZa, who were executed in 1872 for advocating for Filipino clergy and resisting Spanish colonial injustices. Their sacrifice played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s struggle for religious and political freedom.
As part of the commemoration, a wreath-laying ceremony was held at Plaza De Padre Mariano Gomez near Bacoor Catholic Church, where Fr. Gomez served.
Following the tribute, a Holy Eucharist was celebrated at St. Michael the Archangel Cathedral led by The Most Rev. Joel O. Porlares, IFI Obispo Maximo, and The Most Rev. Brent Harry Alawas, ECP Prime Bishop.
In his homily, Bishop Alawas emphasized the significance of the IFI-ECP concordat relations and said, “IFI and ECP are partners in God’s mission. Through this covenant we stand together, calling on one another to repent and renounce the evils of power, wealth, and privilege that corrupt humanity and destroy God’s creation.”
The 28th anniversary of the IFI-ECP Concordat reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening unity in the pursuit of a common mission. Over the years both Churches have actively collaborated on social justice initiatives and continue their shared work in faith and service to the marginalized.
