Here in the Philippines, November 1 is called All Souls’ Day. For most Filipinos, this is the day they remember their ancestors. Many people celebrate this day by going to the cemetery or holding prayer vigils and services or ceremonies to honor the deceased. Usually, “offerings” of food are also included. Even among believers, this is often just viewed as part of their culture. Oddly enough, if there is a reason to miss the family’s ceremonies, it is also culturally acceptable in most cases. Many years ago, we saw some of our church members struggling with the prayers and offerings to the deceased, so we decided to have a church outing that day. This is the common solution for many other Baptist churches as well. We spend the day in games and activities, and, of course, food! It has become a day of encouragement that our church looks forward to, rather than the dead. It was a blessing to have over 80 of our church members spend the day together this past November 1.
A couple of weeks ago on a Saturday morning, I was out soul winning with some of our men. We often go to a university across the street from our church called Benguet State University. What was special about this day was that there were three children outside the college campus who appeared to be bored. I asked the three kids if they would like to hear a Bible story. I started to tell them about the birth, life, and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. They were attentive to the Gospel story and received the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour. “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not.”
We were able to spend Thanksgiving Day with some American missionary friends here in the Philippines. We thank the Lord for friends here in the Philippines.
The year 2025 is almost gone, and we are about to enter another exciting year. As we look back on this past year, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness. We have had some strong typhoons, sickness, and setbacks, but God has been here with us the entire time.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support as we share the Gospel in the Philippines.
Your missionaries to the Philippines,
The Palmani Family
Mark, Kim, Anastasia, Rachel, and AJ
