A memorial service was held to celebrate the lives of 4 people, including 3 Filipinos who died in the building collapse in Lebanon/Rhyse Furio, ABS-CBN Middle East News Bureau

BEIRUT, Lebanon - Instead of intense grief, attendees witnessed a joyous celebration at the memorial service for Lucy Bombales, Juvelyn Concon, Mary Ann Davatos, and Ahmed Sheik, 4 members of God's Divine Love International Ministry Church who died in a building collapse last January 15.

The church, where Concon was a pastor, used to hold services on the 3rd floor of the building.

Members of God's Divine Love offered a song for the four victims, as well as held a slideshow presentation featuring their photos.

Throughout the service, the message of life's brevity and the need to live with reverence for God was emphasized.

Gloria Dumia, founder and senior pastor of the church, arrived from Iran for the memorial service. She spoke about the church's history and gave a new mandate to the remaining members.

Meanwhile, Lebanese pastor Said Deeb delivered the main preaching. Deeb is pastor of Church of God Bourj Hammoud, the parent church of God's Divine Love.

Pastors, employers and a close friend also gave heartfelt messages.

Members of God's Divine Love received support from other Filipino churches, who organized and hosted the service.

"They are in God's mansion, praising Him, and they are happy and at peace," said Dumia. "Our sympathies are with you at this time. But though it also hurts us to lose them, we are rejoicing because they are in the Presence of the Lord."

Ruth Amandy talked about the short time that Davatos spent in church. "Every Sunday afternoon, Mary Ann and I spent time at the church. You could really see her joy and no trace of problems," she said.

Tina Badillo offered words of encouragement for Bombales' family, while Melba Dela Cruz addressed her words of comfort to Concon's parents.

"I hope you won't stay sad, because Sister Lucy is happy now in the Lord's company," said Badillo. "So keep going and continue. Life must go on, so we must trust the Lord all the time."

For her part, Dela Cruz said: "Let's rejoice, because Pra. Lyn (Juvelyn) is now with the Lord! She used to tell us, 'Don't let go of God, whatever happens. Keep going and keep the Lord first in your heart always. That's what she used to instill in us, her sheep."