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.
The Right Rev. Dr. Jon I. (Jack) Lumanog is an Anglican Bishop and leader of The Anglican Diocese of St. Ignatius Loyola. He oversees clergy in various regions and has a background in church planting and revitalization. Currently, he is pursuing post-graduate studies at Harvard and is a corporate strategist.
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. Click here for more…
.: SPEAKING REQUESTS :. As his ministry schedule allows, Bishop Lumanog is available to preach at other churches, and conferences. Please e-mail your speaking requests to: bishoplumanog@theanglican.church.
Bishop-elect Jack Lumanog participated in a Habitat for Humanity project in Atlanta, assisting with painting despite lacking construction skills. He is an Anglican bishop overseeing global clergy, a church planting leader, and currently studying Management at Harvard. Lumanog has extensive experience in church leadership and corporate strategy in healthcare.
Bishop-elect Jack Lumanog up bright and early to help with the painting crew at a Habitat for Humanity building project in Atlanta, GA
Bishop-elect Jack Lumanog was part of a Habitat for Humanity building project in his Atlanta neighborhood in partnership with local churches.
Even though he is not at all “handy” when it comes to construction projects, he was put to work on painting edging and trim for accent pieces!
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 