Grant’s Philippine Update from New Zealand- February 2010

February 19, 2010 — Auckland, New Zealand

Greetings to you all in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you for your continued support for the work in the Philippines. The work there, indeed anywhere, cannot succeed without the faithful support of those who pray, give and encourage.

Roy Rocha

Roy reports that his health is much better. He still has to take some medication but basically is not having any further trouble at this present time. The repairs at the church are completed except for the painting work which may even be completed by now. Of course further work and help could be used but Roy believes that the people need to realise that they need to have some responsibility to help themselves. Roy will be undertaking some lecturing at Tambaboan, Claveria, during the summer break as part of his internship requirements.

Jonathan Navacilla

Jonathan continues his studies at CGST. He is doing well and has even undertaken a further subject which commenced after the Christmas break. His pastoral work also continues to keep him busy. He reports that a further seven young people who attended the Basketball Clinic were baptised recently. Unfortunately Caleb Gawangon, the coach of the clinic, suffered a motor cycle accident and is still recuperating. Apparently he should be able recommence his work as a professional coach and the work with the clinic shortly. During the coach’s recovery the Bible studies have been in abeyance.

Reniel Comajeg

Reniel has decided to undertake a one year’s course at CGST. This will require him to complete thirty units in the twelve months. He will commence early in April. Having been a matter of prayer and with advice from others it will mean that he will most likely be away from his wife for the year as she is awaiting word to commence working for Nestle Philippines which is just out of CDO. They are both prepared to be separated now rather than later when they may have a family to consider as well. Housing for his wife, Felany, will be a concern as they do not want her to be in their house at Tagoloan on her own.

Benjie Ragas

Benjie has been appointed pastor at Macanhan last December and reports that he baptised the security guard (I think from OBC) two weeks ago. This would be the third security guard that Benjie has brought to Christ. Benjie also will complete his Research Assignment by March 1st for final approval and binding by March 13th.

Oro Bible College

OBC concludes its school year on March 26th. This year the Kindergarten and College will hold separate graduation ceremonies for the first time. Exams will be held from March 8-10th. for the Grads, 15 -16th. Grad Comprehensives, and 17 – 18th for the undergrads. The annual Youth Rally will be taking place February 20th at OBC from 2.00pm – 8.00pm. Instead of providing just a snack OBC will provide a dinner for all those who attend.

Mm Fe Mendoza

Mm Fe reports that the outreach ministry work at Indahag is going well with a weekly average attendance of 60 including children. As reported last time some of the OBC students have been assigned there to assist with the ministry.

BPACCI

BPACCI, the Conference, work continues with Pastor Eleazar Comajig making regular visits to churches to encourage and help pastors.

Jeff and Rhonda Walsh

Jeff and Rhonda and the boys were able to fly to Manila and have their 9 (g) Visa

DROUGHT

Drought is causing problems throughout many regions of the country. The government is at present considering importing rice from Vietnam so that there may be an adequate supply for the people.

Prayer Items:

• Pray for the Youth Rally being held Feb 20th. That there will be many young people challenged to commit themselves to study for ministry.
• Pray for the work at Indahag, for Mm Fe and Pastor Toto Mendoza that they will have the strength and wisdom for the work that they are doing at Indahag and for the people that they are working amongst.
• Pray for Pastor Reniel and Felany Comajeg as they make adjustments as Reniel goes to CGST for the year.
• Pray for full recovery for Caleb Gawangon and for the work that he and Pastor Jonathan Navacilla are doing with the Basketball Clinic.
• Pray for those who have been baptised in recent weeks that their walk with the Lord will be richer each day.
• Pray for Pastor Benjie Ragas in his ministry at Macanhan and that he will be able to complete his OBC studies.
• Pray for the OBC students as they undertake their exams.
• Pray for Pastor Roy Rocha in his studies and ministry in Manila.
• Pray for Grant Aldridge as he ministers in Manila, Cebu, Cagayan De Oro and Macanhan between March 14th and March 28th. He will return to NZ on April 17th.

Post Script:

February 21, 2010

From Jonathan Navacilla

These are some of the photos of the evangelistic night that we have last Feb 14. It was an activity designed for unbelievers to know God’s love. It was a program with presentations of songs and dances by the young people in the church. After the sermon, in way of application, I divided the crowd into groups and assigned leaders to lead the group on how should they respond to God’s love.

From Roy Rocha

The couples’ night was great! First time ever for the church. The venue[the church] looked romantic, couples enjoyed the night. Yes I am seeking for membership sa BPACCI. I am working on it. Next week will be our Annual family retreat, then I will start preparing for my internship.