THE CREATION AND CARRYING ON OF GKK DIVINE MERCY IN PUROK 9A AND PUROK 9B, BARANGAY FATIMA, GENERAL SANTOS CITY

The 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines is continuously expanding up to this 20th century. It has marked the Filipinos' religiosity, which is evident in the increasing number of GKK (Gamayng Kristohanong Katilingban) or small Christian communities in every country's provinces. With the goal of reaching out to their expanding population, these small Christian groups are always present from North to South Philippines and even in the smallest group of Catholics under the diocese of Marbel, particularly the Barangay Fatima of General Santos City.
This study dealt with the creation and carrying of one of the newest GKK in Barangay Fatima, the GKK Divine Mercy from 2020 to 2021. Primarily concerned with the crucial facts of the events, the study's main goal is to hold a concrete record of the history of the creation of these small Christian communities. Furthermore, the gathering of data became successful through personal interviews and with the use of a questionnaire and recording device. The collected data for this research came from the major members of the GKK Ministry and their respective officers. It was descriptively interpreted, was being analyzed, and cross-examined for validity to ensure its legitimacy and accuracy.
It is understood that the necessity of studying the history of every fundamental ecclesial community in Barangay Fatima is to promote the Catholic Religion's unique culture and its significant impact on the community. Apart from the spiritual function of this GKK, its presence in its respective Puroks has provided a clear picture of the characteristics of Christianity in the area and will be clearer if deep and wider research will be conducted in the future. The total purpose of this research will be fully appreciated if this religious-related kind of research is continued. This is just one of the small beginnings of local study in Barangay Fatima, General Santos City, and will definitely help us achieve a broader and more successful record of the city's local history. We, as researchers, could contribute to the preservation of beliefs and culture that will strengthen the Filipino identity.