Easter Sunday at The Anglican Church of the Messiah in Plainfield, New Jersey, emphasized the sacrament of Confirmation as a beginning of discipleship. Eleven candidates received the Holy Spirit’s empowerment, ready to live out their baptismal promises. The celebration underscored the Church’s vitality and mission, inspiring all to actively share the hope of the Resurrection.
April 20, 2025 The Anglican Church of the Messiah Plainfield, New Jersey
Easter Sunday was not only a celebration of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, but also a powerful reminder that the Spirit of the Living God is moving mightily in His Church.
Too often, the Sacrament of Confirmation is misunderstood as the end of a journey — as if it were some kind of spiritual “graduation.” But Confirmation is not an ending at all. It is the beginning of a new chapter in discipleship. It is a sacrament of empowerment, a moment when the Holy Spirit equips, strengthens, and sends forth disciples into the mission field of daily life.
When I lay hands upon each candidate, I do so with a deep sense of reverence and holy expectation. These ancient words of prayer carry weight and power:
“Defend, O Lord, your servant N. with your heavenly grace, that he/she may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more, until he/she comes to your everlasting kingdom. Amen.”
This is no mere formality. This is an anointing. This is impartation. This is the very Spirit of God stirring hearts, igniting faith, and commissioning laborers for His harvest.
On Easter Sunday, at The Anglican Church of the Messiah in Plainfield, New Jersey, I had the profound privilege of laying hands on 11 adults and young adults. One by one, they came forward with boldness and joy, ready to seal their baptismal promises with the gift of the Spirit. Each heart set aflame with the hope of the Gospel.
What a sight to behold — the Church alive, vibrant, and on mission! These brothers and sisters are not simply members of a congregation. They are witnesses of the Risen Christ, commissioned to carry His light into homes, schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods.
The Spirit is moving. The Church is alive. And the mission continues.
May this Easter season be a reminder for us all: the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is the very Spirit who fills and sends us today. We are not called to sit still but to go forth — as Easter people, alive with the hope of the Resurrection!
Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam — to the greater glory of God!
In crafting this distinguished seal, we were honored to engage the services of Karr Cedric, a renowned heraldist of Arca Foederis in the Philippines. His expertise has been sought by esteemed institutions such as the Archdiocese of Manila, the Archdiocese of Cebu, and the Minor Basilica and Parish of St. John the Baptist in the Diocese of Antipolo. Karr Cedric was chosen not only for his masterful craftsmanship but also for his deep understanding of Bishop Lumanog’s cultural heritage as a fellow Filipino. This seal reflects not just episcopal authority, but also the unique legacy and mission of a Filipino-American bishop entrusted with upholding the faith.
The Episcopal Seal of Jon Ignatius Lumanog
The episcopal seal of Bishop Jon Ignatius Lumanog is a profound visual testament to his faith, heritage and mission as a bishop. Rooted in Christian symbolism and personal significance, the seal integrates elements of his spiritual calling, theological convictions and family name.
Shape and Overall Design
At the heart of the seal is a traditional episcopal shield, symbolizing leadership, guardianship and divine protection. Crowning the shield is a bishop’s mitre, signifying episcopal authority and the sacred duty of teaching and shepherding the faithful. Behind the shield, a crosier (shepherd’s staff) represents pastoral care, while a key—the symbol of St. Peter—denotes apostolic succession and ecclesiastical authority, echoing Christ’s words in Matthew 16:19: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.”
The Shield’s Elements and Symbolism
The shield itself is divided into two halves, each carrying profound theological and personal meaning.
Left Half – Faith and Sacraments (Purple Background)
The left side of the shield, set against a purple background, embodies Bishop Lumanog’s deep commitment to Scripture, sacramental life and the Holy Spirit.
Cross of St. George (White & Purple) – A traditional symbol of Christian faith, referencing Anglican heritage. The color purple signifies episcopal authority as a bishop.
Open Book with Alpha (Α) & Omega (Ω) – Represents the Bible and Christ as the eternal Word (Revelation 22:13), underscoring the bishop’s dedication to theological wisdom and the teaching ministry.
Chalice – A symbol of the Eucharist, highlighting the centrality of sacramental life in his episcopal mission.
Flame – Represents the Holy Spirit, divine inspiration, and an unwavering passion for ministry and missionary zeal.
Right Half – Family and Name Symbolism (Blue, White & Red with a Golden Eagle)
The right side of the shield integrates personal and familial significance, reflecting his heritage and patron saints.
Golden Eagle with Halo (Symbol of St. John the Evangelist) – The eagle, emblematic of St. John, represents spiritual vision and divine revelation. It also serves as a personal connection to Bishop Lumanog’s Christian name, “Jon.”
Rayonny Division (Flames) – Symbol of the Lumanog Name – The flame-like rayonny pattern references the meaning of Lumanog. The surname Lumanog carries a wealth of cultural and historical significance that provide insights into the heritage of individuals who bear this name. Last names often serve as a window into the past, reflecting the geographic, linguistic, and social contexts in which they originated.
The surname Lumanog is believed to have Filipino roots, reflecting the rich tapestry of languages and cultures that characterize the Philippines. The name is thought to have connections to Tagalog and other indigenous Philippine languages. While the exact meaning can vary, it often evokes ideas of brightness or illumination, possibly stemming from the root word “lumi,” which can denote light or brightness in Filipino vernacular. This aspect of the name suggests a heritage linked to positive attributes like enlightenment or clarity.
The flame-like rayonny pattern (flames) symbolizes a mission to bring spiritual illumination to others.
IHS Christogram with Red Sunburst (Symbol of St. Ignatius of Loyola) – The IHS monogram, the emblem of St. Ignatius of Loyola, honors Bishop Lumanog’s middle name and his dedication to Ignatian spirituality. The red sunburst symbolizes Christ’s divine radiance and missionary zeal.
Alternative Interpretation – The Phoenix and Resurrection
A variation of the seal includes a golden phoenix rising from flames—a powerful symbol of resurrection, renewal, and triumph over death. The phoenix represents perseverance, spiritual rebirth, and the transformative power of faith, reinforcing the bishop’s mission of renewal and revival.
Outer White Border and Inscription
Encircling the shield is a white border adorned with black crosses, further emphasizing its Christian significance. Inscribed along the border is the name “Jon Ignatius Lumanog,” affirming his identity and mission as a bishop.
Theological and Personal Significance
Bishop Lumanog’s heraldic seal is more than an artistic representation — it is a visual proclamation of his vocation. The left half highlights his devotion to Scripture, the Eucharist, and the Holy Spirit. The right half pays tribute to his family name and Filipino heritage, patron saints, and the calling to spread the Gospel light. United in purpose, these elements reflect his duty to uphold apostolic tradition, guide the faithful and illuminate the path of Christ for all who seek Him.
Bishop Jack Lumanog reflects on personal grief and the significance of the Collect for the Second Sunday in Advent from the 1662 Book of Common Prayer. Amidst holiday pressures, Bishop Jack Lumanog finds comfort in Scripture, emphasizing patience and meaningful reflection over consumerism. This perspective invites deeper appreciation of Christmas and faith.
I have been suffering from a bit of “brain fog” lately. It’s been a prolonged season of grief and transition. Amidst all this, the Collect for the Second Sunday of Advent leapt off the page:
It is the middle of December as I write and reflect on this and it seems an odd choice to exercise “patience” and seek “comfort of thy holy word.” Such an odd choice! It is nearly Christmas time after all!
But, the rhythm of life from the Book of Common Prayer is helpful like that sometimes.
The Church calendar supersedes my agenda for the day.
The Church calendar re-orders my priorities.
Sometimes, it helps to have something like a prayer to remind me of what an enormous gift we have in Holy Scripture to point us to the blessed hope of everlasting life in Jesus Christ.
There is so much to do especially around Christmastime. But is it really relevant to the celebration of Jesus and His birth? Or is it all “forced merriment” around this time of the year? It feels like “compulsory joy” which makes it even more like a pressurized month — especially if you are, like me, struggling with grief or loss.
My dog keeping me company as I take a breath and a moment in the Scriptures to “hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them” as reminded by the collect in the Second Sunday of Advent. What a great idea in the busy season of Christmas!
On second thought, it may not be such an odd prayer to offer in the middle of December after all. To choose “patience” and seek the “comfort of thy holy word” feels especially fitting as the rest of the world seems consumed by the frenzy of consumerism (allegedly) meant to commemorate the birth of Jesus.
Taking a breath and a moment in the Scriptures to “hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them” might be the best gift we give to ourselves and our Lord Jesus Christ in this busy season.
Blessed Lord, who hast caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant that we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and comfort of thy holy word, we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which thou hast given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company.
Life Experience Brings New Depth to Worship Song by Bishop Jack Lumanog
In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to lose sight of the quiet yet profound moments where God’s goodness shines through. A worship moment captured at the Mississippi District UPCI Campmeeting 2024 reminds us—just how powerful those moments can be. The David Ellard Trio, a group of seasoned and faithful singers, delivered a soul-stirring rendition of the well-loved modern worship song “Goodness of God.”
Here is Jenn Johnson of Bethel Music leading the song as we have come to know and love it:
The Power of Experience in Worship
When the David Ellard Trio sang this song, it wasn’t just about beautiful harmonies or a polished performance. These elders in the Lord carried something deeper—an authenticity born of life’s challenges, triumphs, and an unwavering faith in God’s goodness through it all.
You could hear it in their voices and see it in their expressions: they weren’t just singing the words, they were living them. As the lyrics proclaimed: “All my life You have been faithful; all my life You have been so, so good,” it became clear that these singers were testifying to their own faith journeys.
And it’s clear these words are closer to these singers’ hearts: “With every breath that I am able I will sing of the goodness of God“
All of these lyrics take on a whole new meaning when sung by this trio!
A Timeless Reminder of God’s Faithfulness
“Goodness of God” is a song that resonates across generations. But in the hands of the David Ellard Trio, it took on a whole new meaning. Their heartfelt delivery takes us — whether young or old— to a place of deep gratitude and worship.
This performance isn’t just about music; it is about connection.
It reminds us that no matter what we face, God’s faithfulness is unwavering.
These elders in the Lord, with lives marked by highs and lows, sang a message of hope that we all need to hear.
Whether you’re a long-time believer or someone searching for hope, this rendition of “Goodness of God” will uplift and inspire you.
Get a sense of God’s presence as the voices of experience remind us all of His unfailing love.
The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company.
Bishop Jack Lumanog preaching at The Anglican Church of the Messiah, Plainfield New Jersey on 23 June 2024 where Archdeacon Gideon Uzomechina faithfully serves as Rector.
Here is a video excerpt from Bishop Lumanog’s sermon from Mark 4:35-41 sermon “Let Us Go Over to the Other Side!”
Mark 4:35-41, ESV: 35 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” 36 And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” 41 And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”
The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company.
Today commemorates the 80th anniversary of Rev Dr Florence Li Tim Oi’s ordination as the first woman priest in the Anglican Communion. Despite facing war and persecution, she answered her calling. A prayer in her honor encourages others to embody her dedication and serve with love and faith in Jesus Christ.
Today is the 80th anniversary of the ordination of the Rev Dr Florence Li Tim Oi, the first woman to be ordained to the priesthood in the Anglican Communion. I give thanks for this remarkable priest who persisted in her obedience to the Lord’s call on her life under threat of war, occupation and persecution some 80 years ago.
Let us pray in thanksgiving: Gracious God, we thank you for calling Florence Li Tim-Oi, much beloved daughter, to be the first woman to exercise the office of a priest in our Communion. By the grace of your Spirit inspire us to follow her example, serving your people with patience and happiness all our days, and witnessing in every circumstance to our Saviour Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the same Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Revd Dr Florence Li Tim-Oi was ordained on 25 January 1944. She was ordained Deacon on Ascension Day in 1941 after hearing the call to ministry 10 years earlier at the ordination of a deaconess in Hong Kong Cathedral. Florence was given charge of the Anglican congregation in Macau where, at the time, refugees were fleeing to from China.
Priests were unable to travel from Japanese occupied territories and therefore could not preside over the Eucharist for her. Florence was, therefore, licensed to do this as a deacon and eventually ordained priest by Bishop R.O. Hall of Hong Kong.
The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. “Jack” Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop in good standing with the Apostolic Communion of Anglican Churches and the leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola, overseeing clergy and congregations in the United States, South Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia. A pastor and evangelist at heart, Dr. Jack Lumanog has planted, revitalized and led churches, traveling extensively around the world to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He served as a denominational leader for eight years, providing executive-level oversight for more than 1,000 congregations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Dr. Lumanog is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Management at Harvard University through the Harvard Extension School. He is an accomplished corporate strategist with extensive experience leading high-impact clinical projects for a Fortune 20 healthcare company.
jacklumanog.com 