By a minister of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines

The United Church was founded on May 25 1948. It is composed from five different denominational traditions; the United Disciples (Northeast of the country, Ilocos Norte), The United Brethren (La Union), Presbyterian, (all over the country, but particularly in metropolitan areas, the Congregationalist (Mindanao), and the Methodists. Although we differed in some traditions and practices, we were united in our faith in God.

How does UCCP show its Prophetic Call?

We have the statement of faith, which was written out of our very experience not only as a church but as a nation. Thus it is not  dogmatic, and the interpretation changes according to our experience. As early as the 1970's the church demonstrated its prophetic ministry through raising her voice by challenging the military system of government under the deposed president Ferdinand Marcos. On Sept. 1972, Marcus declared martial Law; at that time many of our men, both young and old were arrested without warrant of arrest because the government perceived them as anti government or leftist or members of the New people's Army. The New People's Army is the red army of the Communist Party of the Philippines. In 1986, when the people were already bombarded with so much pain and political uncertainties under Marcos, the people from all walks of life gathered together on the streets to denounce the legitimacy of Marcos dictatorial governance. This was the first People Power the country ever exercised.

In terms of social action the church is also active in its involvement. We have the Peasant's Program, this is in solidarity with our peasant folks, farmers, and fisher folks, thus, there are church workers who are participating in the peasant's activities, (rally for price increases, petitions to stop any plans that would endanger the situation of our farmers).

We also have the Peace and Justice Program. Its main emphasis is on the issue of Human Rights.