MACROHON — A new chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was inaugurated this morning, February 1, 2025, in brgy Molopolo, Macrohon, Southern Leyte, bringing a sense of fulfillment and excitement to the local Mormon community.
With an estimated cost of 40 million pesos, the newly constructed branch aims to provide churchgoers with a permanent place of worship, eliminating the need to travel to other locations or rent temporary venues for religious gatherings.
During the inauguration, Dorotheo Allen Martinez, Tacloban Mission President, shared an inspiring message, referencing the Parable of the Pearl and the Box to highlight the significance of the new chapel.
He emphasized that “the church, like the box, enhances our ability to worship the Lord, but it does not diminish the value of the pearl—the people itself.” His words resonated with the congregation, reinforcing the belief that while a physical place of worship is important, true faith lies in one’s personal relationship with God.
According to Martinez, the project is expected to be fully completed within a year, ensuring that members will have a dedicated and accessible space for worship, community service, and faith-based activities.
Meanwhile, Macrohon Mayor Allan Jose Aroy, who was present at the event, reaffirmed that the Local Government Unit (LGU) is committed in supporting interfaith activities and promotes inclusivity among various religious communities.
“Ato nga gisuportaan ang religious nga grupo, nga mao ang Mormons kauban sa ilang mga kadagkoan, tungod kay ang lungsod sa Macrohon, atong gipabatyag sa tanan nga religion nga sila part og depict sa atong community. Para sa dugang kalambuan pa sa lungsod, atong gipakita atong suporta kanila, ingon man nga sila usab, ato pod silang hangyuon nga mu-kooperar sa mga programa og kalihukan sa lungsod,” the mayor stated.
Church members expressed their gratitude for the newly-soon established chapel. As construction progresses over the next year, the new house of worship is expected to serve as a placce of faith, bringing the local Mormon community closer together in their shared spiritual journey.