“Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.” (Psalm 62:8) These past two months have been a reminder that even though we sometimes cannot trace God, we can always trust Him.
In August, our Bible college began our new academic year with 21 students, including 11 freshmen. They are a great group of young adults with a real heart to serve the Lord. It is a privilege to disciple them.
In September, we had our annual Missions Conference with the theme, It’s Still Ours to Reach. Many important decisions were made, and our Faith Promise commitments increased greatly.
During the conference, it was announced that one of our college graduates, Nelson Duran, would be planting our first “daughter church” in a nearby city, Dauin. He has already begun winning many souls in the area and starting Bible studies that will eventually result in services beginning. We would appreciate you praying for Nelson, his wife Jonah, and their two children. I am convinced that he will be used by God to start an independent, fundamental Baptist congregation with conservative beliefs and practices.
We have also have had our trials during this time. One of our college girls, who started this year, was locked up in her parents’ home because of their opposition. She faced this bravely and with a good spirit. Eventually, her father told her that if she wanted to continue going to our church, she would have to leave home and not come back. She is now in our college boarding house, depending on the Lord to provide for her and lead her. Many young people here have to face persecution from their families when they get serious about serving the Lord. It makes me strive to do my best to make their sacrifices for the Lord worthwhile.
On September 10, we laid to rest Desiree, infant newborn of Jason and Daisy Mae Garganian, who are on staff at our church and graduates of our Bible college. Daisy Mae suddenly began to bleed profusely due to placenta previa at 27 weeks along in her pregnancy and needed an emergency C-section to save her life. Desiree lived for a short time, with our people taking turns giving her respirations manually. Sadly, she passed away after a day. Our hearts broke, but we are so thankful that Daisy Mae’s life was spared. This couple has set an example of trusting the Lord in their sorrow. Thankfully, all of their medical and burial costs were met, and Daisy Mae is recovering well.
Thank you for your faithful support in prayer and finances that allows us to see victories even during grief and persecution.
Yours for souls,
Scott Christiansen
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- Bible college students for new academic year
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- The Durans, who are starting a church in a nearby city