Update from WCG Philippines

A weekly e-mail newsletter from the Worldwide Church of God - Philippines

May 26, 2006

SEP Palawan 2006 Harvests 19 Young Souls

SEP Palawan (May 21 -23) -- SEP Palawan harvested 19 young souls on May 23, 2006. Camp here was almost postponed due to haevy rain fall caused by Typhoon Caloy. A series of prayer meetings were done asking God's leading if the camp should go on. Almost half of the campers didn't make it to the camp due to the assumption that the camp was already postponed. But thanks be to God for the 24 brave youngsters. 

At very the start of the camp, the staff has already noticed the unusual response of the young people. Campers always responded positively every time a "call to altar" is made. On May 23 at about 6:30 a.m. was the camp's last devotional and Ptr. Mon Rosario challenged the campers that if their response to the altar calls were genuine, then they should seek counsel from the staff. 

There were 14 campers who immediately responded. The morning was solemn coupled with tears of joy. At the end of the river trekking which was the last activity of the camp, Ptr. Rosario, again reminded the campers of their commitment to Christ. The Lord touched 19 young souls to surrender to Him. --Solomon Rosario

VBS Held in Carao, Bokod, Benguet

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – A team headed by Pastor Martin Estong and Chit Lee left La Trinidad May 14 and traveled four hours for the Vacation Bible School in Carao, Bokod, Benguet. Some 35 children participated in the three-day activity.

Syria Aquino handled the preschool level (ages 3-6). Joan Bencio taught the primary level (ages 7-9). Myla Faminialagao guided the intermediate level (ages 10-12). Dangie Laguerta, Benjamin Joseph Lee, Michelle Diane Lee and Gertrude Tungpalan assisted in the teaching. Principal Danilo Lee gave the daily devotional. Fellow laborers were Danny and Zorie Laguerta and Lorenza Estong.

In addition to the VBS, youths also gathered with the team for a night of barbecue and fellowship. Several senior members of Carao church also gathered one afternoon for Bible study. --Arlan Aquino 

EE representative conducts OBS seminar

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Dr. Rolando Refuerzo of Evangelism Explosion Philippines conducted a seminar workshop on Outreach Bible Study May 13 for the church. Thirteen brethren attended the half-day event held in La Trinidad. Two of the topics discussed were Establishing Network of Contacts and Nurturing New Believers. --Arlan Aquino

Update from Filipino Overseas Missionary

I have been able to serve with a team in a children's camp in last March where about six kids receive the Lord. Last month, I spoke at a children's workers retreat for our kid's ministry team from the church. I still ask the help of a translator when I teach this time. But I am looking forward to the day when I can teach in the local language. I could speak the language much better now but it is still a different story teaching it in the local language.

As for the youth here, I have just finished a 3-week English class for young people. I am testing their level here as well as building relationships as I continue to prepare God's leading to reach more youths in this area. I have also began to choose Christian youth whom I could mentor. I believe that a strong Christian youth can be an influence in their schools and families. They are the future of every nation and of the church.        

Challenges. God has also brought me to another level of knowing Him and trusting Him. Last month, a ministry partner of mine was violently attacked by a man in her residence. This happened the night before Resurrection Sunday. Less than a week later, another Thai friend lost her 21 year old brother thru an accident. He was electrocuted while at work. It's his first job after his graduation. These incidents hurt me personally even as I spent time with these two ladies to pray for them and listen to their stories. These ladies are like family to me here. Please pray for healing for them and that the Lord's comfort will be so real to them at this time.

Personally, I no longer have nightmares after my own violent attack last February but sometimes I still have this "automatic" fear reaction when a male stranger walks near me. Please continue to pray for my complete recovery. I always remind myself that the Lord is our Peace in the midst of the storm. --Missionary's name withheld

Feedback from Filipino Overseas Missionary

Thanks for keeping us updated here. It's so refreshing for us here to know how God is moving in every church activities there in the Philippines. We are all fine Sir by his sufficient grace. Thanks for you prayers Sir. Praise God for everything He has done. Last week, a government school responded to my job application and conducted an interview. Thank God I passed and they accepted me as an English teacher to grade five students. 

I have to teach only 3 hours a day with a monthly salary. This is sufficient enough to sustain myself and the ministry. God has really answered our prayers right on time. We keep in touch with my fellow missionaries in this area. Please extend our thanks and regards to all our financial supporters and prayer partners. --Missionary's name withheld

For comments, suggestions, to submit and share an article,  to subscribe or unsubscribe, write to Len.Joson@wcg.org. These updates can also be accessed and viewed at www.wcg.org/ph.  WCG - Philippines: National Office Address: #60 Matahimik St., Teachers Village, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines. Telephone No. (632) 426-22-94. When sending articles, please send preferably  text format only and photos as attached files in jpg format.

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you." (2 Thessalonians 3:1)