The Iglesia ni Cristo (INC, Tagalog for Church of Christ) is a non-Trinitarian Christian sect originating in the Philippines. The church, noted for its distinctive church architecture of narrow pointed spires, is a controversial organization that seeks to distablish mainly the Roman Catholic Church, the predominant religion in the country, and claims to be the true Church of Christ. It was founded by Felix Manalo on July 27, 1914 and is a highly influential organization that keeps close tabs on its congregations.
The Iglesia ni Cristo has grown to more than two hundred congregations in 67 countries. The church doesn't disclose the exact number of members, but estimates place worldwide membership from 3 to 10 million, almost all of whom are of Filipino descent. The INC is possibly the second-largest single Cristian sect in the Philippines after the dominant Catholics. Its members are noted for block voting in Philippine elections. In 1986, they were chastised by many for supporting the unpopular President Ferdinand Marcos.
The core belief of the Iglesia ni Cristo is that Felix Manalo was sent by God to reestablish the original Church mentioned in the Bible in modern times and was given sole authority to interpret the Bible's teachings and commandments. Their doctrines bears a resemblance to that of the Seventh-Day Adventists, which Felix Manalo used to belong to.
The INC is headquartered in Diliman, Quezon City and is currently led by the founder's son, Erano G. Manalo. It operates the New Era University and New Era Hospital both near the headquarters in Diliman, and the church also owns the DZEC AM radio station and the NET 25 television station under its Eagle Broadcasting Division.
