2008 - Into the Philippines

In January it was really special to break bread and attend the midweek prayers for the first time in the recently established second company of the Church of God in Tagum, located at Macopa. Both were truly authentic Church of God experiences, but refreshingly different with an impressive spiritual tone to the proceedings.

A new Church of God in Banaybanay

All nine local brothers who were able to be present participated in thanksgiving when we broke bread at the planting of the Church of God at Banaybanay on 10 February, 2008. Beforehand, the testimonies of some of the sisters had been delightful. One told me, “I have learned to love the house of God,” while another had earlier presented us with her idols so that they could be destroyed.

We enjoyed a simple celebratory meal together afterwards with locally harvested jackfruit for dessert. Their simple newly purchased building has an open, peaceful aspect looking out over paddy fields to the mountains beyond. The number in the church is now in excess of 50 and the compound is being improved and extended.

… and at Liguyon

Then the Church of God at Liguyon was planted in November 2008. There were 35 to break bread, but the number has now risen to 40. To get there is a genuinely thrilling off-road experience in a 4x4, axle-deep in mud one moment and facing skywards on a 1 in 3 rutted incline the next. They were all waiting an hour early. Worship flowed for an hour and was cross-centred with 10 locals participating in thanksgiving plus 3 hymns. To be in a remote mountain shack, and to see that shack totally filled with 50 persons (15 observers), most earnestly and accurately singing 'No blood no altar now ...' as they realize their hearts’ desire of remembering the Lord on their own native soil is an exceptional experience.

Philippines Youth Camp

Our first Youth Camp in the Philippines was held during October 2008. There were 3 two-hour teaching sessions each day – but balanced with lively praise and lots of fun too! It was great for our youth to get to know each other. The food was terrific; and the youth could swim, volleyball, play badminton. We had campfire sharings, Bible sword-fencing, the works ... Days began, at their request, with prayers at 6am; and finished with campfires at around 10:30pm.