GMC Dubai Celebrates First Year with Spirit-Filled Gathering
Attendees line up for prayer during ministry time. Photo by Mae Jayme.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The Global Methodist Church (GMC) Dubai joyfully celebrated its anniversary with a heartfelt and spirit-filled gathering at the Carlton Dubai Creek Hotel on February 22, 2025. With about 70 attendees, including friends from other churches and members of GMC Abu Dhabi, the event was a powerful testament to the church’s growth, unity, and unwavering faith in God’s work among His people.
Pastor Tristan Jayme, one of the two pastors of GMC Dubai, reflected on the church’s journey, declaring, “The Holy Spirit is at work in our midst! What a year it has been! We have grown and transformed, all because of God’s work in our lives.”
A Year of Growth and Transformation
Pastor Jerome Enerva of Qatar GMC delivered a compelling message on the theme. Photo by Mae Jayme.
Themed “Deeper – Explosion, Expansion, and Excitement” based on Zechariah 4:10, the celebration highlighted the ways God has been moving in the life of the church over the past year. Pastor Jerome B. Enerva of GMC Qatar, the event’s guest speaker, delivered a compelling message on faith’s transformative power, the expansion of God’s work, and the excitement of witnessing His divine plans unfold in the congregation. His words deeply resonated with those in attendance, inspiring them to continue seeking God’s will with expectant hearts.
The event also featured powerful testimonies from Liza Maisog Villanueva and Jen Villa, who shared their personal faith journeys and testified to God’s unwavering faithfulness. Their stories served as reminders that even amid trials, God’s love remains steadfast, and His plans never fail.
The Birth of GMC Dubai
This anniversary celebration was particularly meaningful, marking the first full year since the founding of GMC Dubai. The church emerged from a season of challenges and refinement under a previous name, strengthened by the unwavering dedication of its founding lay leaders—Diodel and Vian Valmonte, Joe and Brenda Serafica, Ralph and Jane Buen, Blessie Cruz, Ian and Michelle Mendoza, Will Jay and Joy Aubrey Cruz, and others. When the urgent call came for new pastoral leadership, Pastor Tristan—with his wife Mae and their son John David—and Pastor Lhyn Malonzo of GMC Abu Dhabi willingly stepped up to shepherd the newly formed faith community. Without hesitation, they embraced the responsibility, making the 1.5-hour commute to Dubai every Sunday—a testament to their deep commitment and sacrificial service.
Beyond their ministries in GMC Abu Dhabi, both pastors also balance secular careers—Tristan is procurement manager for a company that runs a chain of virtual kitchens, while Lhyn works for an engineering firm. Their dedication to both their professional and pastoral callings is a remarkable display of faith, perseverance, and unwavering devotion to God.
GMC Dubai ministerial team and a few guests enjoy a light moment together. Photo by Mae Jayme.
Reflecting on the church’s journey this past year, Pastor Lhyn shared: “This community is the fruit of fervent prayer and continual reliance on the Holy Spirit, guiding our every step from the time it was formed until now. As it is written: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of Hosts. (Zechariah 4:6) To God alone be all the glory!”
A similar sentiment was expressed by Ian Mendoza, an architect by profession, who chaired the anniversary committee: “The journey we have shared has been filled with both challenges and triumphs, but through it all, God has been our constant help. As we reflect on His unwavering love and the countless blessings we have received as a community of believers, may we continue to grow in faith and be salt and light to the world, sharing the hope and grace we find in Him.”
The congregation held its first worship service on February 9, 2024, with 17 attendees, led by Pastors Tristan and Lhyn in a flat shared by the Buen and Cruz families. A defining moment came three weeks later, on March 3, 2024, when leaders from the Mega Manila Provisional Annual Conference, including Bishop Scott Jones and his wife Mary Lou, Pastor Luther Oconer, Pastor David Sablan, Jr., Pastor Joanne Valenzuela, Celia Mendoza, and other guests from Abu Dhabi and Doha, Qatar, visited the congregation. Their presence was a powerful affirmation, as they prayed over the church and encouraged its mission, strengthening the faith community in its early beginning.
Since its inception, GMC Dubai has witnessed growth—not only in numbers but also in the depth of faith and commitment among its members. Today, over 30 people identify as members of this church. The anniversary celebration served as a reflection of an increasing spiritual maturity and a reaffirmation of God’s faithfulness.
Worship, Fellowship, and Ministry Time
A significant highlight of the event was the vibrant and powerful time of praise and worship, led by the worship Team. With hearts lifted in adoration, the congregation worshiped in Spirit and in Truth, creating an atmosphere filled with the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit.
GMC Dubai worship team leading a vibrant and powerful time of praise and worship. Photo by Mae Jayme.
The ministerial time that followed was equally moving, as attendees came forward for prayer and intercession by the ministry team, seeking God’s guidance and declaring His blessings over their lives and the future of the church.
Beyond worship and prayer, the gathering was filled with joy and meaningful fellowship. Over shared meals and games, attendees strengthened their bonds, celebrating not just the church’s anniversary but the deep relationships formed through their shared faith.
Looking Ahead
As GMC Dubai reflects on its first year, the congregation stands in awe of how God has moved in their midst. The anniversary was not only a time of remembrance but also a declaration of faith for the future. The church remains committed to its mission—growing deeper in faith, expanding God’s kingdom, and embracing with excitement all that He has in store.
With hearts full of gratitude, the members of GMC Dubai eagerly anticipate the years ahead, trusting that the Lord will continue to lead and guide them in fulfilling His purpose.
Above all, to God be the glory!
From reports by Pastors Tristan Jayme and Lhyn Malonzo. All photos by Mae Jayme.
