“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” (I Corinthians 15:58 KJV)
DECEMBER 2016
This month is usually one of our busiest. As a custom in our church, every December we try to reach out to our community by being a blessing to them in a spiritual way. This year we planned to present the Gospel through different performances, which included a hand play, a shadow play, and a puppet show. For several weeks our young people diligently practiced for their hand-play presentation; the juniors, on the other hand, were active in their rehearsals for their shadow play. Both presentations were scheduled to be performed on December 22. Everybody was excited and anxious for that day.
However, there was a sudden turn of events, as I was hospitalized on the 21st. Unfortunately, I was not able to be there, but I am thankful I have church workers I can count on to handle the situation, because as the saying goes, “The show must go on!” We are also thankful for Pastor and Mrs. Coltrane, together with Pastor and Mrs. Benfield, for their participation, as they delighted the kids, as well as the adults, with their puppet-show presentation.
Thankfully, I was discharged from the hospital in time for our church Christmas service. The 25th was a most awaited day for us, because it was time to open and count our savings, which would be added to our church Property Fund. We praise and thank God for the faithfulness and commitment of our people in giving for this cause. Please continue to pray for us as we try to look for a property where we can start building our church.
JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2017
Our new year began with new opportunities for our church. Recently we started an extension ministry in Abuyugon, a barangay located on the mountain side of Burauen. We are pleased with their receptiveness of the Gospel. As a result, we have had several adults, young people, and kids faithfully coming to our church services for the past several weeks.
Please pray for Myra, Marlon, Jesus, and Cesar. Our church workers are having a Bible study with them in preparation for their baptism. They have already accepted Christ as their personal Saviour. Please pray for their spiritual growth.
One of the greatest joys as a father and as a pastor was to have the privilege of baptizing my daughter. On February 5, Sofia, together with five of her close friends in church—Lorren Terres, Bless Micah, Riza, Rebekah, and Gerald—followed Christ in the water of baptism. I am looking forward to seeing them grow, not only in their spiritual lives but also seeing them mature in the church and be the next generation of young people. To God be the glory; great things He has done!
We thank you once again, not only for your prayers but also for supporting our ministry here in the Philippines. May the Lord bless you!
In His service,
Pastor Parish Match E. Javier and Family
