Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Up date 12-16-08
Christmas Greetings to you all in the name of our wonderful savior, whose name is “…wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace. “ How often we have drawn on His counsel through His word, His power in difficulties, His tenderness as Abba, and what wonderful Peace which passes understanding that He has brought to our hearts. This past year has once again demonstrated to our hearts the abounding grace of God. His faithfulness, gentleness, longsuffering, provision and mercy, which is new every morning, has been experienced again and again. For which we give Him the fruit of our lips.
This past Lord’s day we celebrated the 33rd anniversary of the assembly meeting on Morning Glory street in Baguio. The work actually began well before that time back in the late 60s when Ken and Marylou Engle were used of the Lord to start some Bible studies in which men and women were saved and the assembly established. The theme for the celebration was very appropriate, Ang katapatan ng Dios noon, ngayon at sa hinaharap” (The Faithfulness of God in the past, present and for the future.) The Engles, Brooks (Cyril and Anna, and Ken and Elaine) and others were fondly remembered by some of the old timers. As were Bev and Mike Smits and others who served the Lord among them over the years. We are actually the third generation of our family to have served the Lord here at the assembly in Baguio. Amazing Grace. Indeed He has been faithful in all of our lives and He is our hope for the future. I was privileged to give my personal testimony as a part of the celebration. It was good to once again reflect on the work of the Lord in my own life over the many years. This year I celebrate the 50th year of my new birth.
This week will be a full one. I will have Bible studies each evening, Monday through Friday, then I will speak three times at a conference down in Pangisanan and once on Sunday morning at Navy Base. The conference theme is the responsibility of men in the assembly of God’s people, with an emphasis on worship. A very appropriate theme for the day and age in which we live. Please be praying that the Lord would use the words spoken for His glory.
Larry, Kim, Tyler, Abby, Holly and Aunt Rose Brooks will be coming up to Baguio to spend Christmas with us. So we will have a full house, which is such a blessing after having an empty house last year. We will miss our Rachel, Abby and Daniel, but know they are where the Lord would have them in their service for Him.
Once again I would like to thank you all for your faithful prayers for us this past year, and for being sensitive to the voice of the Lord in your sharing with us. In Philippians 4 Paul rejoiced over that which was received from the hands of the people of God, and I can repeat his words as from my own heart to you all….”Not that I seek the gift but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I have all and abound. I am full having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you a sweet smelling aroma an acceptable sacrifice well pleasing to God. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
We love you all. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Perhaps this coming year we shall see Him coming in His glory, or be called home to Him. Oh that will be glory for me, when by His grace to look on His face. That will be glory…be glory for me.
Christmas Greetings to you all in the name of our wonderful savior, whose name is “…wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace. “ How often we have drawn on His counsel through His word, His power in difficulties, His tenderness as Abba, and what wonderful Peace which passes understanding that He has brought to our hearts. This past year has once again demonstrated to our hearts the abounding grace of God. His faithfulness, gentleness, longsuffering, provision and mercy, which is new every morning, has been experienced again and again. For which we give Him the fruit of our lips.
This past Lord’s day we celebrated the 33rd anniversary of the assembly meeting on Morning Glory street in Baguio. The work actually began well before that time back in the late 60s when Ken and Marylou Engle were used of the Lord to start some Bible studies in which men and women were saved and the assembly established. The theme for the celebration was very appropriate, Ang katapatan ng Dios noon, ngayon at sa hinaharap” (The Faithfulness of God in the past, present and for the future.) The Engles, Brooks (Cyril and Anna, and Ken and Elaine) and others were fondly remembered by some of the old timers. As were Bev and Mike Smits and others who served the Lord among them over the years. We are actually the third generation of our family to have served the Lord here at the assembly in Baguio. Amazing Grace. Indeed He has been faithful in all of our lives and He is our hope for the future. I was privileged to give my personal testimony as a part of the celebration. It was good to once again reflect on the work of the Lord in my own life over the many years. This year I celebrate the 50th year of my new birth.
This week will be a full one. I will have Bible studies each evening, Monday through Friday, then I will speak three times at a conference down in Pangisanan and once on Sunday morning at Navy Base. The conference theme is the responsibility of men in the assembly of God’s people, with an emphasis on worship. A very appropriate theme for the day and age in which we live. Please be praying that the Lord would use the words spoken for His glory.
Larry, Kim, Tyler, Abby, Holly and Aunt Rose Brooks will be coming up to Baguio to spend Christmas with us. So we will have a full house, which is such a blessing after having an empty house last year. We will miss our Rachel, Abby and Daniel, but know they are where the Lord would have them in their service for Him.
Once again I would like to thank you all for your faithful prayers for us this past year, and for being sensitive to the voice of the Lord in your sharing with us. In Philippians 4 Paul rejoiced over that which was received from the hands of the people of God, and I can repeat his words as from my own heart to you all….”Not that I seek the gift but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I have all and abound. I am full having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you a sweet smelling aroma an acceptable sacrifice well pleasing to God. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
We love you all. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Perhaps this coming year we shall see Him coming in His glory, or be called home to Him. Oh that will be glory for me, when by His grace to look on His face. That will be glory…be glory for me.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
It was quite enjoyable this year to have family to celebrate Thanksgiving with. It was truly a blessing from the Lord. Not only did we have Larry, Kim and the grandkids but ten dorm boys to celebrate with us, three of whom never have had a traditional American Thanksgiving dinner before. We had a great meal, and it caused me to remember what a wonderful Lord we have and serve, so much we have to be thankful for.
I spoke yesterday at Hill Crest Bible Chapel here in Antipolo. It was a part of my regular schedule to speak there once a month, while we were still living in the Manila area, so it was nice to see them all again and to share with them from the Word of our precious Lord.
These few days here in Manila have given me many hours to meditate and contemplate the work of the Lord in our lives over the past couple of years. To reflect once again on how the Lord has led, opened doors and provided opportunities for service all along the way, has cause my heart to swell once again in Worship. This morning as I sat on the porch of the Faith Dorm and looked over the city while it still lay in silence, I was remembering all the years the Lord has given to us here. What a blessing to remember His faithfulness!, and to remember how much He has changed us over those same years. It also provides encouragement and hope, as well, for the time which still lays ahead. To remember, once again, that “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” That He does not change, and there is “no shadow caused by His turning.” What confidence that gives as we move into the months ahead. His mercies are new every morning and His faithfulness is indeed great. So, as we travel back up the hill to Baguio in the next couple of days I return with a refreshed soul and an encouraged heart.
Thursday we will continue the bible study at Mines View in the letter to the Ephesians. It is a purely expository study, which I love. We will continue to observe the long sentence which draws our attention to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and their work in our redemption and future hope. To know that we have “redemption in His blood, the forgiveness of sins” is a wonderful truth that we too often take for granted, when in reality it is the greatest of works done in our lives and that which has placed us In Christ forever…wonderful truth.
The bible school at Baguio Gold will be on hold until after the first of the year. This Sunday is a joint fellowship with the saints from Baguio Gold and Navy Base. The men will once again do some evangelism in the mining area, and the ladies will enjoy a time of prayer and teaching together. Then on the 14th Navy Base will celebrate its anniversary and the following Sunday the assembly at Baguio Gold will celebrate theirs. So the month holds a lot of activities along with the regular Christmas celebrations and programs.
Thank you all so much for your prayers for us. May I ask, if it would not be too inconvenient for you, please take just a moment at the end of this note to pray for us, for the Lord direction for the months that lay ahead for the conferences, bible schools and special studies I will be teaching in the next couple of months. Lots of preparation will be necessary and we desire that the Lord use us not only to feed the mind but the soul, so please pray with us to that end.
I spoke yesterday at Hill Crest Bible Chapel here in Antipolo. It was a part of my regular schedule to speak there once a month, while we were still living in the Manila area, so it was nice to see them all again and to share with them from the Word of our precious Lord.
These few days here in Manila have given me many hours to meditate and contemplate the work of the Lord in our lives over the past couple of years. To reflect once again on how the Lord has led, opened doors and provided opportunities for service all along the way, has cause my heart to swell once again in Worship. This morning as I sat on the porch of the Faith Dorm and looked over the city while it still lay in silence, I was remembering all the years the Lord has given to us here. What a blessing to remember His faithfulness!, and to remember how much He has changed us over those same years. It also provides encouragement and hope, as well, for the time which still lays ahead. To remember, once again, that “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” That He does not change, and there is “no shadow caused by His turning.” What confidence that gives as we move into the months ahead. His mercies are new every morning and His faithfulness is indeed great. So, as we travel back up the hill to Baguio in the next couple of days I return with a refreshed soul and an encouraged heart.
Thursday we will continue the bible study at Mines View in the letter to the Ephesians. It is a purely expository study, which I love. We will continue to observe the long sentence which draws our attention to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and their work in our redemption and future hope. To know that we have “redemption in His blood, the forgiveness of sins” is a wonderful truth that we too often take for granted, when in reality it is the greatest of works done in our lives and that which has placed us In Christ forever…wonderful truth.
The bible school at Baguio Gold will be on hold until after the first of the year. This Sunday is a joint fellowship with the saints from Baguio Gold and Navy Base. The men will once again do some evangelism in the mining area, and the ladies will enjoy a time of prayer and teaching together. Then on the 14th Navy Base will celebrate its anniversary and the following Sunday the assembly at Baguio Gold will celebrate theirs. So the month holds a lot of activities along with the regular Christmas celebrations and programs.
Thank you all so much for your prayers for us. May I ask, if it would not be too inconvenient for you, please take just a moment at the end of this note to pray for us, for the Lord direction for the months that lay ahead for the conferences, bible schools and special studies I will be teaching in the next couple of months. Lots of preparation will be necessary and we desire that the Lord use us not only to feed the mind but the soul, so please pray with us to that end.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Greetings to you all once again. Yesterday was another wonderful Lord’s Day here in the mountains. The time of worship with the assembly at Navy Base was wonderful. It seems the Spirit was continually leading our hearts to the greatness and wonder of His person and how that praise is due to His name. I feel as if I joined the “ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands” in the heavenly places crying out, “worthy is the Lamb that was slain”.
Yesterday afternoon we spend a couple of hours with the saints down in Baguio Gold. The roads going down were a bit sloppy due to some rains yesterday but very easily passable. We finished up chapter 5 of Hebrews and I was much encouraged to see these faithful saints coming out, yet once again, to spend a two full hours, non stop, in the study of His precious word. We will return on December 7th to begin a series with them on Sunday mornings and on that afternoon we will be having a joint fellowship with them and the saints from Navy Base. Due to the busy season upcoming with an anniversary Sunday for Navy Base on the 14th, and an anniversary Sunday for Baguio Gold on the 21st, then the holidays, our next session of Bible School will not be until January 4th. We have four hours of classes remaining for this session.
Tomorrow morning (Nov. 25) we head down to Manila. Joyce has a doctor’s appointment in the afternoon then we will have dinner with Rose Brooks and spend the night with Larry and Kim Keating at the dorm at Faith Academy. They are doing very well and the Lord is allowing many different challenges and decisions into their lives as they faithfully serve him there. So keep them in your prayers as well.
We also will be checking out the doctors and procedures needed for one of the ladies at the assembly in Baguio, as I mentioned in my last note to you, she is in need of surgery on her vocal cords and we want to see what is involved in making that happen for her sometime over the holidays. So please keep that in your prayers.
Thanks again for praying. It has been such an encouragement for me to know that you are keeping up with the “goings on” here and keeping us before the Lord. Drop us a brief note if you have a moment, it would be an extra encouragement to hear from you.
Our next trip to Sagada is in the works, so please be praying for that as well.
Yesterday afternoon we spend a couple of hours with the saints down in Baguio Gold. The roads going down were a bit sloppy due to some rains yesterday but very easily passable. We finished up chapter 5 of Hebrews and I was much encouraged to see these faithful saints coming out, yet once again, to spend a two full hours, non stop, in the study of His precious word. We will return on December 7th to begin a series with them on Sunday mornings and on that afternoon we will be having a joint fellowship with them and the saints from Navy Base. Due to the busy season upcoming with an anniversary Sunday for Navy Base on the 14th, and an anniversary Sunday for Baguio Gold on the 21st, then the holidays, our next session of Bible School will not be until January 4th. We have four hours of classes remaining for this session.
Tomorrow morning (Nov. 25) we head down to Manila. Joyce has a doctor’s appointment in the afternoon then we will have dinner with Rose Brooks and spend the night with Larry and Kim Keating at the dorm at Faith Academy. They are doing very well and the Lord is allowing many different challenges and decisions into their lives as they faithfully serve him there. So keep them in your prayers as well.
We also will be checking out the doctors and procedures needed for one of the ladies at the assembly in Baguio, as I mentioned in my last note to you, she is in need of surgery on her vocal cords and we want to see what is involved in making that happen for her sometime over the holidays. So please keep that in your prayers.
Thanks again for praying. It has been such an encouragement for me to know that you are keeping up with the “goings on” here and keeping us before the Lord. Drop us a brief note if you have a moment, it would be an extra encouragement to hear from you.
Our next trip to Sagada is in the works, so please be praying for that as well.
Friday, November 07, 2008
Greetings once again to you all, and thank you for your faithful prayers on behalf of the Lord’s work here among us.
This past week we completed session three in the evening bible school series on the book of Hebrews. This session covered chapters 7-9 of the epistle, and it was indeed quite a challenge to complete all those wonderful verses in ten hours of studies. But, what a blessing it was to once again remember the greatness of our Lord Jesus Christ. To be reminded yet once again of the greatness of our Savior’s priesthood, place of service and sacrifice, and to remember once again that it is “not with the blood of goats and calves but with HIS own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all having obtained eternal redemption”
This morning we had the men’s breakfast fellowship at the chapel and continued in our study on the value and importance of Worship. It was a wonderful time as we spoke of the greatness and glory of our God once again and exalted the person of His blessed Son. The time ended, as always, with all the men on their knees worshipping the Lord. It is such a time of refreshment and blessing.
Tomorrow (November 9) we will begin the second session of bible school down in Baguio Gold. We will be covering chapters 4-6 of Hebrews with the saints there. This bible school will run for the next 5 consecutive Sundays from 3 t0 5 each Sunday afternoon.
This coming week we also have the regular studies on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings in various homes. Next Sunday I will be teaching at Navy Base in the morning and then at Baguio Gold in the afternoon, so I would appreciate your prayers once again as His precious word is shared; that the Spirit of God would take His word and apply it to the hearts of His people.
On another note for prayer, one of the women of the assembly at Navy Base is in need of some surgery next month. She has some damage to her vocal cords and will need some lazar surgery down in Manila. Please be praying for this.
Again, thank you for your continued prayers and support of the Lord’s work here among us, we are seeing His wonderful hand at work and rejoice in Him.
This past week we completed session three in the evening bible school series on the book of Hebrews. This session covered chapters 7-9 of the epistle, and it was indeed quite a challenge to complete all those wonderful verses in ten hours of studies. But, what a blessing it was to once again remember the greatness of our Lord Jesus Christ. To be reminded yet once again of the greatness of our Savior’s priesthood, place of service and sacrifice, and to remember once again that it is “not with the blood of goats and calves but with HIS own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all having obtained eternal redemption”
This morning we had the men’s breakfast fellowship at the chapel and continued in our study on the value and importance of Worship. It was a wonderful time as we spoke of the greatness and glory of our God once again and exalted the person of His blessed Son. The time ended, as always, with all the men on their knees worshipping the Lord. It is such a time of refreshment and blessing.
Tomorrow (November 9) we will begin the second session of bible school down in Baguio Gold. We will be covering chapters 4-6 of Hebrews with the saints there. This bible school will run for the next 5 consecutive Sundays from 3 t0 5 each Sunday afternoon.
This coming week we also have the regular studies on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings in various homes. Next Sunday I will be teaching at Navy Base in the morning and then at Baguio Gold in the afternoon, so I would appreciate your prayers once again as His precious word is shared; that the Spirit of God would take His word and apply it to the hearts of His people.
On another note for prayer, one of the women of the assembly at Navy Base is in need of some surgery next month. She has some damage to her vocal cords and will need some lazar surgery down in Manila. Please be praying for this.
Again, thank you for your continued prayers and support of the Lord’s work here among us, we are seeing His wonderful hand at work and rejoice in Him.
Monday, October 13, 2008
October 14, 2008 Update - in Manila
Greetings to you all in the precious name of our wonderful Savior, He whose grace knows know limits and love knows no depths. It is wonderful to have such a Savior. Like one wave after another breaks on the shore, so does His grace and love without ceasing.
I was saddened by the home call of three brothers in the Lord this week and last. Last week my dear friend David Van der Noot went home to be with the Lord he loves and served so faithfully. I will always remember his zeal for evangelism and will continue to hear his voice singing, “Thank you Lord for saving my soul….” But, we know that he is rejoicing with his blessed Lord even as we type these words.
Following that we learned of the death of Noel, a brother whose family have been a special part of our lives for so many years. His suffering is past and He beholds now the face of the Savior who loved him and gave Himself for him. We will be attending services for him later today. (Tuesday).
We had planned while we were in Manila to visit today with Chito, a brother in the Lord who has been a part of the assembly in Baguio over the years. He was an active evangelist and recently sought to train and equip the saints at Navy Base to share their faith. The lessons he taught them and his active example encouraged many. We learned yesterday that the Lord has also seen fit to call him home to his reward. “O Lord Jesus how long, how long ere we shout the glad song, Christ returneth, Hallelujah, hallelujah Amen…”
We are extending our stay in the Manila area in order to visit with the families here who have lost loved ones. We plan, Lord willing to return to Baguio on Wednesday or Thursday as the Lord leads.
We were able to visit with Phil and Mary Parsons at the worship and celebration of the Lord’s grace and provision for the newest building at Faith Academy. It was such a wonderful time of true worship and thanksgiving to our wonderful Lord. It was great to briefly visit with Phil and Mary as well.
We also had the privilege of spending time with Marc and Rosa Grant as they were visiting the Philippines as well. They also are dear friends that we have known for many years it was good to see them again.
The work in Baguio continues to go well. This week there will be studies on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights, as well as visiting and a study on Saturday afternoon. I will be speaking the next two Sunday mornings at Navy Base on Zechariah 3 and 4. The mini Bible schools for both Navy Base and Baguio Gold will be beginning soon as well, so please keep those things in your prayers.
We had a brief visit with Kim and Larry and the grandkids in order to celebrate Abby’s 2nd birthday. They are all doing well, and well immersed in the work of being dorm parents, which is an all consuming work.
Joyce is doing well, and we thank you all for your continued prayer for her, and for the work the Lord has placed in our hands.
I was saddened by the home call of three brothers in the Lord this week and last. Last week my dear friend David Van der Noot went home to be with the Lord he loves and served so faithfully. I will always remember his zeal for evangelism and will continue to hear his voice singing, “Thank you Lord for saving my soul….” But, we know that he is rejoicing with his blessed Lord even as we type these words.
Following that we learned of the death of Noel, a brother whose family have been a special part of our lives for so many years. His suffering is past and He beholds now the face of the Savior who loved him and gave Himself for him. We will be attending services for him later today. (Tuesday).
We had planned while we were in Manila to visit today with Chito, a brother in the Lord who has been a part of the assembly in Baguio over the years. He was an active evangelist and recently sought to train and equip the saints at Navy Base to share their faith. The lessons he taught them and his active example encouraged many. We learned yesterday that the Lord has also seen fit to call him home to his reward. “O Lord Jesus how long, how long ere we shout the glad song, Christ returneth, Hallelujah, hallelujah Amen…”
We are extending our stay in the Manila area in order to visit with the families here who have lost loved ones. We plan, Lord willing to return to Baguio on Wednesday or Thursday as the Lord leads.
We were able to visit with Phil and Mary Parsons at the worship and celebration of the Lord’s grace and provision for the newest building at Faith Academy. It was such a wonderful time of true worship and thanksgiving to our wonderful Lord. It was great to briefly visit with Phil and Mary as well.
We also had the privilege of spending time with Marc and Rosa Grant as they were visiting the Philippines as well. They also are dear friends that we have known for many years it was good to see them again.
The work in Baguio continues to go well. This week there will be studies on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights, as well as visiting and a study on Saturday afternoon. I will be speaking the next two Sunday mornings at Navy Base on Zechariah 3 and 4. The mini Bible schools for both Navy Base and Baguio Gold will be beginning soon as well, so please keep those things in your prayers.
We had a brief visit with Kim and Larry and the grandkids in order to celebrate Abby’s 2nd birthday. They are all doing well, and well immersed in the work of being dorm parents, which is an all consuming work.
Joyce is doing well, and we thank you all for your continued prayer for her, and for the work the Lord has placed in our hands.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Update, Sep 29, 2008 In Manila
Greeting to you all once again, this time from Manila. This past week was an interesting one in several aspects. As a storm raced through, just north of us, again we received the backlash of monsoon rains which caused several landslides on many of the roads and trails throughout the mountains.
In a mining village near-by 14 were killed as the earth gave way beneath them. So the trail up to Lowakan Atamok remains closed to us and we have not been able to have a bible study there now for several weeks.
The study on Tuesday was cancelled because the home we meet in had water flowing through it on Monday and they were still cleaning up. Wednesday’s meeting at the chapel went on well, and a good group was out, the rains having subsided by Tuesday afternoon. Thursday evening, I started out up the road that winds from our house to the chapel and the fog was so bad that I needed to turn around and go home, so I missed the study on Thursday, the rains began again in earnest that evening.
We traveled down to Manila on Friday morning and encountered several landslides along the way, many of which left rather large boulders in our path. But the crews were out clearing a single lane so that all were passable by the time we arrived. Our trip to Manila was without incident, for which we thank the Lord. We have traveled down here for the last regular appointment that Joyce has with her doctors. If all is well we will not need to see any of them for another six months, which would be wonderful.
We spent the weekend with Kim and Larry, and I get tired just watching them and all the responsibilities they have as dorm parents at Faith Academy. They had such a full weekend!! But they are doing well and seem well adjusted now to life at Faith.
I had opportunity to speak at the assembly in Cogeo on the Lord’s day. It was good to see them all again. In spite of some problems they are continuing to look to the Lord for His strength.
We head back to Baguio tomorrow morning and have studies scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday this week, if the weather co-operates. We are anxious to get back over to Atamok, so please keep that in your prayers.
Thank you all for taking the time out of your busy schedules to read these short updates. We know you are praying, and that is such an encouragement to us. Ken
In a mining village near-by 14 were killed as the earth gave way beneath them. So the trail up to Lowakan Atamok remains closed to us and we have not been able to have a bible study there now for several weeks.
The study on Tuesday was cancelled because the home we meet in had water flowing through it on Monday and they were still cleaning up. Wednesday’s meeting at the chapel went on well, and a good group was out, the rains having subsided by Tuesday afternoon. Thursday evening, I started out up the road that winds from our house to the chapel and the fog was so bad that I needed to turn around and go home, so I missed the study on Thursday, the rains began again in earnest that evening.
We traveled down to Manila on Friday morning and encountered several landslides along the way, many of which left rather large boulders in our path. But the crews were out clearing a single lane so that all were passable by the time we arrived. Our trip to Manila was without incident, for which we thank the Lord. We have traveled down here for the last regular appointment that Joyce has with her doctors. If all is well we will not need to see any of them for another six months, which would be wonderful.
We spent the weekend with Kim and Larry, and I get tired just watching them and all the responsibilities they have as dorm parents at Faith Academy. They had such a full weekend!! But they are doing well and seem well adjusted now to life at Faith.
I had opportunity to speak at the assembly in Cogeo on the Lord’s day. It was good to see them all again. In spite of some problems they are continuing to look to the Lord for His strength.
We head back to Baguio tomorrow morning and have studies scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday this week, if the weather co-operates. We are anxious to get back over to Atamok, so please keep that in your prayers.
Thank you all for taking the time out of your busy schedules to read these short updates. We know you are praying, and that is such an encouragement to us. Ken
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Update - September 19, 2008
It has been another full week and we are rejoicing in the Lord. The study on Tuesday went well, one of the young brothers lead the study on Faith and did a very commendable job. He is a brother that is showing a lot of potential for the Lord, and we are all encouraging him as he continues to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our blessed Lord. He is active in almost every aspect of the assembly from the music ministry, co-running the Youth Group, teaching on Sundays once a month, doing evangelism, as well as teaching some of the weekly studies. He has been a blessing.
The study on Wednesday night went well and the attendance was very good. After a study on persecution from the letter to the church in Symrna, we divided into six groups of 5 or 6 and had a good time of prayer. This time was followed by an “eatn’ meeting” where the fellowship just continued on for another 45 minutes or so. It is such a blessing to our hearts to be in fellowship with such a wonderful assembly of the Lord’s people.
Thursday night we had another study at the home of one of the saints who lives up near Mines View. Florie’s husband is home from his work overseas in the Cayman Islands, so while he is at home we will have studies at their home. He is a believer in the Lord and these studies are to encourage him in the faith while he is home.
Saturday we will have another study, Lord willing, up at Mines View. This study, as I have mentioned in the past, is sometimes cancelled because of rain. The venue is an open venue and the heavy rains make it impossible to hold the study.
Tuesday we were out doing some visitation with the saints. We were able to visit a couple of the families from the assembly who were unable to get out to meeting the last couple of weeks. We trust it was an encouraging time for them.
Sunday I will be speaking twice in the morning. Teaching first, once again, in the second and third chapter of Acts, then I will be teaching on the Natural, the Carnal, and the Spiritual man at the Family Bible Hour. Pray that the Lord would encourage and challenge His people, for His glory.
At the end of next week we will be heading down to Manila once again for a check up for Joyce and I will be speaking at the assembly in Cogeo, where we served the Lord for many years.
Thank you for your prayers.
The study on Wednesday night went well and the attendance was very good. After a study on persecution from the letter to the church in Symrna, we divided into six groups of 5 or 6 and had a good time of prayer. This time was followed by an “eatn’ meeting” where the fellowship just continued on for another 45 minutes or so. It is such a blessing to our hearts to be in fellowship with such a wonderful assembly of the Lord’s people.
Thursday night we had another study at the home of one of the saints who lives up near Mines View. Florie’s husband is home from his work overseas in the Cayman Islands, so while he is at home we will have studies at their home. He is a believer in the Lord and these studies are to encourage him in the faith while he is home.
Saturday we will have another study, Lord willing, up at Mines View. This study, as I have mentioned in the past, is sometimes cancelled because of rain. The venue is an open venue and the heavy rains make it impossible to hold the study.
Tuesday we were out doing some visitation with the saints. We were able to visit a couple of the families from the assembly who were unable to get out to meeting the last couple of weeks. We trust it was an encouraging time for them.
Sunday I will be speaking twice in the morning. Teaching first, once again, in the second and third chapter of Acts, then I will be teaching on the Natural, the Carnal, and the Spiritual man at the Family Bible Hour. Pray that the Lord would encourage and challenge His people, for His glory.
At the end of next week we will be heading down to Manila once again for a check up for Joyce and I will be speaking at the assembly in Cogeo, where we served the Lord for many years.
Thank you for your prayers.
Sep 19, 2008 Pics
Study Group at the Jaleco home.
Bong playing and singing praise to the Lord, following the Wednesday night study.
Fellowship following Wednesday night study and prayer time
Fellowship time
Joyce, Larnni and Nora
Wini and Josie, full time worker at the assembly at Navy Base
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Update September 11, 2008
The weekly studies are going well. While at the Tuesday night study at Mines View the woman who hosts the study received a phone call from the hospital to tell her that her teenage daughter had collapsed and was in the ER at a local hospital. So, obviously, the study stopped and we all rushed down to the hospital. Her daughter, evidently, had had an asthmatic attack and in the panic that that can bring on began to hyperventilate, which caused her to pass out. She was a bit tense still when we arrived but began to settle down and within an hour was released. She was out last night at the Wednesday night prayer meeting and bible study, but will be going to the doctors today for a check up.
The Friday evening, and Saturday afternoon studies will proceed this week as scheduled. Both have those who attend who do not know the Lord, so please be praying as the Gospel goes out to them. Pray also for those who attend who have been away from the Lord that the Lord might use this time to speak to their hearts as well.
This Sunday and next I will be teaching at Navy Base, then the last Sunday of the month we will be down in Manila and I will be teaching, Lord willing, at the assembly in Cogeo, where we served the Lord for many years.
We will begin hosting a couples fellowship at our place starting next month, are looking forward to that time. We so enjoy having the saints visit us.
Larry and Kim have been sick this past week and still have not recovered. Both are experiencing stomach and intestinal discomfort and all that goes with that. We are not certain at this time what is causing it, so please keep them in your prayers. The grandkids are fine, and are not showing any of the same symptoms, pray that that would continue to be the case. Here in the tropics it is quite easy to become dehydrated and weak when you are struggling with these discomforts, so please be praying for them.
Thanks again for all your prayers and kind support of the Lord’s work here among us. Your help reaches out to so many who have needs, the Lord has used many of you over and again to help meet the needs of the dear saints here. For that we give you thanks. Lord bless you all, for His glory.
The Friday evening, and Saturday afternoon studies will proceed this week as scheduled. Both have those who attend who do not know the Lord, so please be praying as the Gospel goes out to them. Pray also for those who attend who have been away from the Lord that the Lord might use this time to speak to their hearts as well.
This Sunday and next I will be teaching at Navy Base, then the last Sunday of the month we will be down in Manila and I will be teaching, Lord willing, at the assembly in Cogeo, where we served the Lord for many years.
We will begin hosting a couples fellowship at our place starting next month, are looking forward to that time. We so enjoy having the saints visit us.
Larry and Kim have been sick this past week and still have not recovered. Both are experiencing stomach and intestinal discomfort and all that goes with that. We are not certain at this time what is causing it, so please keep them in your prayers. The grandkids are fine, and are not showing any of the same symptoms, pray that that would continue to be the case. Here in the tropics it is quite easy to become dehydrated and weak when you are struggling with these discomforts, so please be praying for them.
Thanks again for all your prayers and kind support of the Lord’s work here among us. Your help reaches out to so many who have needs, the Lord has used many of you over and again to help meet the needs of the dear saints here. For that we give you thanks. Lord bless you all, for His glory.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Update, August 31
Meetings this Lord’s day at Navy Base were very refreshing. The Lord’s Supper was a good time of remembering our wonderful savior and all that He has accomplished in our stead. The Spirit led us in worship by using the sharing of the first brother on the theme of “choosing what is best” from the account in Luke chapter 10 regarding Martha and Mary. From there we remembered Mary’s outpouring of worship in her anointing of the Lord Jesus in John 12, and wiping his feet with her hair. Then, the Spirit led another to share from the sister account of that anointing in Mark 14. What a wonderful and uplifting time of remembrance.
Following the Lord’s Supper we had our respective Sunday School classes. This week we continued our Look at the first chapters of Acts. I began this series last week with an introduction to the book. I will be sharing this teaching time with another brother from week to week. Again, it was a delight to remember the bodily resurrection and ascension of our Lord and the out pouring of the promised Spirit.
At the family bible hour one of the young men spoke and gave an excellent message on the coming judgments. In which he outlined each of the judgments that are coming in the program of God. He did a very good job and we are quite pleased with His dedication to the things of the Lord. It is only his second time to speak at the family bible hour and he already speaks with confidence and skill. Certainly a Spiritual gift the Lord has given to Him to use for His glory.
We had a good bible study on Friday last at the home of one of the saints, this study is mainly for her family and extended family. I shared on the word pictures describing the servant of Christ in 2 Corinthians.
This coming Lord’s Day I will have the opportunity of speaking once again at the assembly in Baguio Gold, which will be the first time since arriving back home in Baguio. I am looking forward to seeing them again and to scheduling our next session of bible school there.
Tomorrow morning we head back down the hill to Manila. Joyce is still having some on going complications from her surgery and another visit to the doctor is needed. She may need another procedure to stop the fluid retention that she is having above the lower incision. Please pray with us that this added procedure is unnecessary. She has been a bit weepy these last couple of days and could sure use your prayers and encouragement.
Kim and Larry are doing well, and are fitting in quite nicely now at Faith. They are sure keeping busy, but outside of the normal adjustments, are settling in quite well. Thanks for your prayers for them.
I will send an update on to you all regarding Joyce when we return from Manila later in the week.
Following the Lord’s Supper we had our respective Sunday School classes. This week we continued our Look at the first chapters of Acts. I began this series last week with an introduction to the book. I will be sharing this teaching time with another brother from week to week. Again, it was a delight to remember the bodily resurrection and ascension of our Lord and the out pouring of the promised Spirit.
At the family bible hour one of the young men spoke and gave an excellent message on the coming judgments. In which he outlined each of the judgments that are coming in the program of God. He did a very good job and we are quite pleased with His dedication to the things of the Lord. It is only his second time to speak at the family bible hour and he already speaks with confidence and skill. Certainly a Spiritual gift the Lord has given to Him to use for His glory.
We had a good bible study on Friday last at the home of one of the saints, this study is mainly for her family and extended family. I shared on the word pictures describing the servant of Christ in 2 Corinthians.
This coming Lord’s Day I will have the opportunity of speaking once again at the assembly in Baguio Gold, which will be the first time since arriving back home in Baguio. I am looking forward to seeing them again and to scheduling our next session of bible school there.
Tomorrow morning we head back down the hill to Manila. Joyce is still having some on going complications from her surgery and another visit to the doctor is needed. She may need another procedure to stop the fluid retention that she is having above the lower incision. Please pray with us that this added procedure is unnecessary. She has been a bit weepy these last couple of days and could sure use your prayers and encouragement.
Kim and Larry are doing well, and are fitting in quite nicely now at Faith. They are sure keeping busy, but outside of the normal adjustments, are settling in quite well. Thanks for your prayers for them.
I will send an update on to you all regarding Joyce when we return from Manila later in the week.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Back In Baguio Aug 21, 2008
Typhoon Karen, a category 2 typhoon, has moved by to the north of us these last couple of days dropping several inches of rain on the northern and central sections of Luzon. It has rained non stop for a couple of days and we are finding holes in our roof that we did not know existed previously. We have several new “water features” decorating our home. The storm should move far enough away today or tomorrow to give us a break from the constant noise of rain on a metal roof, which at the first is rather soothing, but then becomes a constant din that causes the soul to desire quiet.
Last evenings prayer meeting was sparsely attended due to the storm, yet it was a good time of prayer and Wini began a series of devotionals on the parables of our Lord. Last evening we were reminded of the Lord’s concern for the lost, from Luke 15.
This Lord’s Day I will be teaching an introduction to the book of Acts at the 10 O’clock adult Sunday school, and then at the 11 O’clock family bible hour I will be teaching on the second advent of our Lord Jesus. So they have put me right back to work, and it is a blessing indeed!
Joyce is recovering nicely. She still does have a small section on the lower incision where she is still leaking, all else has healed up nicely. We will be heading down to Tarlac City, about 2 plus hours down, for a check up on Saturday. So we would ask that you continue to keep Joyce’s recovery in your prayers.
Driving across to some of the new outreaches has been impossible these weeks due to the rainy season and storms. Wini has received some text messages from the folks in Atamok desiring to have a bible study. As soon as the weather clears a bit we will make a trip over. We are thankful to the Lord for the interest these folks are showing in spiritual things. Pray that as the gospel continues to go forth in that area that souls in this family would come to Christ.
It is so good to be with the saints at Navy Base again. Psalm 133 describes it well. “Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!...”
The Lord bless you and keep you my friends. Thank you all for your prayers.
Last evenings prayer meeting was sparsely attended due to the storm, yet it was a good time of prayer and Wini began a series of devotionals on the parables of our Lord. Last evening we were reminded of the Lord’s concern for the lost, from Luke 15.
This Lord’s Day I will be teaching an introduction to the book of Acts at the 10 O’clock adult Sunday school, and then at the 11 O’clock family bible hour I will be teaching on the second advent of our Lord Jesus. So they have put me right back to work, and it is a blessing indeed!
Joyce is recovering nicely. She still does have a small section on the lower incision where she is still leaking, all else has healed up nicely. We will be heading down to Tarlac City, about 2 plus hours down, for a check up on Saturday. So we would ask that you continue to keep Joyce’s recovery in your prayers.
Driving across to some of the new outreaches has been impossible these weeks due to the rainy season and storms. Wini has received some text messages from the folks in Atamok desiring to have a bible study. As soon as the weather clears a bit we will make a trip over. We are thankful to the Lord for the interest these folks are showing in spiritual things. Pray that as the gospel continues to go forth in that area that souls in this family would come to Christ.
It is so good to be with the saints at Navy Base again. Psalm 133 describes it well. “Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!...”
The Lord bless you and keep you my friends. Thank you all for your prayers.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Saturday, August 02, 2008
August 2, 2008 Joyce Surgery Update
Greetings to you all. This has been a challenging week for us. Joyce entered the hospital on Tuesday afternoon. After a battery of tests she was all set for her surgery on Wednesday. We both slept well Tuesday night having committed the following day’s surgery into the hand of our Lord.
Wednesday morning at about 5 AM the doctors and assistants came to take Joyce to the OR. She left the room at about 5:30, and I did not see her again until almost 5 PM. The surgery began at 6 AM and was in two phases. The first phase lasted three hours, the second phase was an additional 6 hours, so she did not leave the OR until about 3 PM, nine hours later. She was in the recovery room until a little before 5, when she was finally rolled back into the room, awake but still a bit groggy. It was sure good to see her again. After the first phase the oncologist visited me in the room to let me know that his phase was completed and that it went well. He mentioned that a few of the lymph nodes, that he removed, were a bit inflamed. So we are awaiting the results of the biopsy. After the second phase that surgeon also came and visited with us to let us know that his part went very well. So we thank the Lord for the good work of these fine men, instruments in the Lord’s hand for this moment in our lives.
Larry and Kim had come down from Cainta to spend the day with me and keep me occupied, and I was certainly thankful for them. They were there to greet Joyce as well when she was rolled into the room.
It is now Saturday afternoon here and Joyce was released from the hospital this morning and is resting here at Rose Brooks’ home in San Juan, just about a ¼ mile from the hospital. She is still a bit weak but doing very well. She still has several drains in and we have to care for them for the next week or so, but other than that this phase of things is finally over. Thank you all so much for praying. We will be remaining here in the Manila area for at least another week or two depending on the doctors and Joyce’s progress. We have a follow-up visit on Monday with one surgeon and Wednesday with the other. We long to be back home in the mountains, but the Lord’s timing is best. We will look to Him for His guidance.
We will keep you updated. Thank you so very much for uplifting us in prayer…we certainly have felt HIS presence.
Wednesday morning at about 5 AM the doctors and assistants came to take Joyce to the OR. She left the room at about 5:30, and I did not see her again until almost 5 PM. The surgery began at 6 AM and was in two phases. The first phase lasted three hours, the second phase was an additional 6 hours, so she did not leave the OR until about 3 PM, nine hours later. She was in the recovery room until a little before 5, when she was finally rolled back into the room, awake but still a bit groggy. It was sure good to see her again. After the first phase the oncologist visited me in the room to let me know that his phase was completed and that it went well. He mentioned that a few of the lymph nodes, that he removed, were a bit inflamed. So we are awaiting the results of the biopsy. After the second phase that surgeon also came and visited with us to let us know that his part went very well. So we thank the Lord for the good work of these fine men, instruments in the Lord’s hand for this moment in our lives.
Larry and Kim had come down from Cainta to spend the day with me and keep me occupied, and I was certainly thankful for them. They were there to greet Joyce as well when she was rolled into the room.
It is now Saturday afternoon here and Joyce was released from the hospital this morning and is resting here at Rose Brooks’ home in San Juan, just about a ¼ mile from the hospital. She is still a bit weak but doing very well. She still has several drains in and we have to care for them for the next week or so, but other than that this phase of things is finally over. Thank you all so much for praying. We will be remaining here in the Manila area for at least another week or two depending on the doctors and Joyce’s progress. We have a follow-up visit on Monday with one surgeon and Wednesday with the other. We long to be back home in the mountains, but the Lord’s timing is best. We will look to Him for His guidance.
We will keep you updated. Thank you so very much for uplifting us in prayer…we certainly have felt HIS presence.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
July 23, 2008 Update
Had a visit with the surgeon yesterday evening and Joyce’s surgery has been postponed until Wednesday the 30th. Evidently there was some miscommunication between the nurse and doctor regarding the date, so his first opening was Wednesday.
So today and tomorrow Joyce has a battery of tests that she must have in preparation for surgery. She must also have a visit with a cardiologist. We are praying that we can get all these tests done today and tomorrow so that we can head up the mountain for the weekend to visit with the saints there and to finally be home, if even for a short weekend.
Thank you all for your prayers and help during this time. The Lord is so very faithful to us. This morning he gave me a verse from Psalm 20. “Some trust in chariots, some in horses, but I will trust in the Lord.”
So today and tomorrow Joyce has a battery of tests that she must have in preparation for surgery. She must also have a visit with a cardiologist. We are praying that we can get all these tests done today and tomorrow so that we can head up the mountain for the weekend to visit with the saints there and to finally be home, if even for a short weekend.
Thank you all for your prayers and help during this time. The Lord is so very faithful to us. This morning he gave me a verse from Psalm 20. “Some trust in chariots, some in horses, but I will trust in the Lord.”
Monday, July 21, 2008
Update -In the Philippines - July 22, 2008
Greetings to you all from a very hot and steamy Manila. We arrived safe and somewhat sound last Wednesday evening and have been running ever since. Seems like we have been here for weeks instead of just a few days, we seem to have gotten much accomplished in those few days.
Most of our days have been taken up in trying to get Larry, Kim and the kids settled into their new dorm. They will be taking care of 13 high school boys, at last count. The dorm is quite large but in need of a lot of work. So they have their work cut out for them these next couple of weeks. The students begin arriving on August 11th. There are several maintenance issues that need to be resolved as well as normal preparations. As first time dorm parents there is so much they still need to learn about the normal everyday functions of the dorm, so they are continually learning new things and new responsibilities that they will have…keep them in your prayers.
Joyce and I had to take a quick trip over to Subic yesterday to get our car registration renewed. Because of a new law we were unable to renew it here in Manila but had to take the 2 hour trip over to Subic, and unlike Manila, they are not very modernized and so we had to wait about 1 ½ hours for them to pass paper work from one to another, stencil our car, and then finally issue the new years stickers.
This evening (Tuesday our time) we will be visiting the Doctor for Joyce, and hope to have more information regarding her up coming surgery, scheduled for Friday. Please keep her in your prayers.
We had desired to visit with the saints in Baguio before her surgery but because her doctor’s appointment had to be changed we were unable to make a trip home to the mountains. We are deeply saddened by this, but know that our Lord has all things in His control. So now we will not be able to go home until her surgery is over and she has recovered enough to travel.
We know that you are praying for us and that is such an encouragement to us. Please drop us a short note when you get a chance, it would be an encouragement to Joyce. So many of you already have, and for that we give you thanks.
Most of our days have been taken up in trying to get Larry, Kim and the kids settled into their new dorm. They will be taking care of 13 high school boys, at last count. The dorm is quite large but in need of a lot of work. So they have their work cut out for them these next couple of weeks. The students begin arriving on August 11th. There are several maintenance issues that need to be resolved as well as normal preparations. As first time dorm parents there is so much they still need to learn about the normal everyday functions of the dorm, so they are continually learning new things and new responsibilities that they will have…keep them in your prayers.
Joyce and I had to take a quick trip over to Subic yesterday to get our car registration renewed. Because of a new law we were unable to renew it here in Manila but had to take the 2 hour trip over to Subic, and unlike Manila, they are not very modernized and so we had to wait about 1 ½ hours for them to pass paper work from one to another, stencil our car, and then finally issue the new years stickers.
This evening (Tuesday our time) we will be visiting the Doctor for Joyce, and hope to have more information regarding her up coming surgery, scheduled for Friday. Please keep her in your prayers.
We had desired to visit with the saints in Baguio before her surgery but because her doctor’s appointment had to be changed we were unable to make a trip home to the mountains. We are deeply saddened by this, but know that our Lord has all things in His control. So now we will not be able to go home until her surgery is over and she has recovered enough to travel.
We know that you are praying for us and that is such an encouragement to us. Please drop us a short note when you get a chance, it would be an encouragement to Joyce. So many of you already have, and for that we give you thanks.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Update June 9, 2008 - CMML New Jersey
Greetings to you all. We arrived safe and sound in the States a little over three weeks ago and had an opportunity to visit with Joyce’s mom and dad in the Orlando area. It was good to see them. Her Dad is requiring further surgery this week to repair a hip replacement that he had done a couple of months ago, so please keep him in your prayers. Our oldest daughter Rachel came down to Florida for a long weekend and it was great to have the time with her there.
The Lord opened opportunities for me to speak, at the assembly in Lake Howell, as well has Clermont and Hiawassa Bible Chapel. Then our last Wednesday night was spent with the saints at Satellite Beach. It was so exciting to us to realize just how many folks visit the web site and are keeping up with the Lords work in the Philippines. It is such and encouragement to know that so many have been praying for us, which explains the blessing we have been enjoying over this past year. Thank you all so much for your encouragement while we were with you.
We completed a weekend conference yesterday at Branford Bible Chapel in Connecticut. What a time of personal blessing for me. I so much enjoyed the fellowship of the saints there and they encouraged our hearts in the things of the Lord. Thank you all so much!! We did not realize just how much we missed all of you.
Currently we are at CMML in New Jersey. Our daughter Kim and her husband and the grandkids are down for a short visit to the New Jersey area before heading out to the Philippines with us in July. They will be beginning a work for the Lord at Faith Academy as dorm parents for high school boys starting at the beginning of the next school year. Keep the Keating family in your prayers as they begin this new venture for the Lord. They become the fourth generation from the “Brooks Family” to serve the Lord in the Philippines. What a wonderful blessing to realize God’s grace and faithfulness.
Joyce is doing well, she is had been experiencing some side effects from the Tamoxifen she has been taking for her cancer. But recently those side effects seem to have dissipated, so she is doing much better.
I have a couple more meeting in Connecticut before heading up to Rochester, New York for a wedding and then on to Chicago for about three weeks before heading back to the Philippines on the 15th of July. Joyce’s surgery will be on the 25th. The recovery period is between six and eight weeks so we would certainly appreciate your prayers. We hope to head back up to the mountains for a brief visit before the surgery, then return home as soon as the doctors give their permission for her to travel.
Thank you all once again for your faithfulness to the Lord and to us. Your love and prayers have blessed us and encouraged us.
The Lord opened opportunities for me to speak, at the assembly in Lake Howell, as well has Clermont and Hiawassa Bible Chapel. Then our last Wednesday night was spent with the saints at Satellite Beach. It was so exciting to us to realize just how many folks visit the web site and are keeping up with the Lords work in the Philippines. It is such and encouragement to know that so many have been praying for us, which explains the blessing we have been enjoying over this past year. Thank you all so much for your encouragement while we were with you.
We completed a weekend conference yesterday at Branford Bible Chapel in Connecticut. What a time of personal blessing for me. I so much enjoyed the fellowship of the saints there and they encouraged our hearts in the things of the Lord. Thank you all so much!! We did not realize just how much we missed all of you.
Currently we are at CMML in New Jersey. Our daughter Kim and her husband and the grandkids are down for a short visit to the New Jersey area before heading out to the Philippines with us in July. They will be beginning a work for the Lord at Faith Academy as dorm parents for high school boys starting at the beginning of the next school year. Keep the Keating family in your prayers as they begin this new venture for the Lord. They become the fourth generation from the “Brooks Family” to serve the Lord in the Philippines. What a wonderful blessing to realize God’s grace and faithfulness.
Joyce is doing well, she is had been experiencing some side effects from the Tamoxifen she has been taking for her cancer. But recently those side effects seem to have dissipated, so she is doing much better.
I have a couple more meeting in Connecticut before heading up to Rochester, New York for a wedding and then on to Chicago for about three weeks before heading back to the Philippines on the 15th of July. Joyce’s surgery will be on the 25th. The recovery period is between six and eight weeks so we would certainly appreciate your prayers. We hope to head back up to the mountains for a brief visit before the surgery, then return home as soon as the doctors give their permission for her to travel.
Thank you all once again for your faithfulness to the Lord and to us. Your love and prayers have blessed us and encouraged us.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Update, May 12, 2008, Departure for Brief Visit to US
This past week we finished up the second session of the Evening Bible School at Navy Base. We had about 15 who came out faithfully, once again, to study the book of Hebrews in depth. They seem to have enjoyed the hours spent looking at each verse, and interacting. After each section of observation and interpretation they have been giving the applications, which has been fun. They have really come up with some good applications based on the interpretation of the texts. It has been a good exercise for all.
Yesterday I spoke at San Juan chapel in Manila. It was good to be with the folks there again. The message was well received and many seemed to be encouraged. Although I inadvertently had Christ in the tomb for three years instead of three days, a language mistake, they were gracious and kind and of course they understood.
Tomorrow we leave for a brief visit to the States. Please keep us in your prayers. Joyce in doing well, and will have her surgery when we return. I know it will be on her mind a lot, so your prayers for her will be much appreciated.
Yesterday I spoke at San Juan chapel in Manila. It was good to be with the folks there again. The message was well received and many seemed to be encouraged. Although I inadvertently had Christ in the tomb for three years instead of three days, a language mistake, they were gracious and kind and of course they understood.
Tomorrow we leave for a brief visit to the States. Please keep us in your prayers. Joyce in doing well, and will have her surgery when we return. I know it will be on her mind a lot, so your prayers for her will be much appreciated.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Update, May 3, 2008
Greetings once again to you all in the precious name of our wonderful Savior the Lord Jesus Christ, who loved us and gave Himself for us.
This past Thursday morning we had a baptism in the South China Sea. Two of the young people were baptized during the assembly outing down in San Fernando. It was good to see these young men making a very public testimony of their faith. They are both solid young men with a good future of service for our Lord.
Tomorrow, Sunday, is the last of four classes of the first session of Mini Bible School down at Baguio Gold. We hope to be able to complete chapter three of the book of Hebrews tomorrow, attendance has actually grown since the first week of classes and they are quite attentive. So we are thankful to the Lord. We pray it would be a time of encouragement for those dear saints.
Monday brings a full week of classes in the second session of Bible School at Navy Base Christian Fellowship. These classes will run each evening from 7-9 PM, our goal in this second session is to complete chapters 4-7 of the book of Hebrews.
Last Saturday we had a good Medical and Dental clinic at the chapel. There were well over 150 who came for treatment, and heard the gospel as well. Tracts were distributed, individual sharing of the gospel and the offer of free courses dealing with Salvation were offered. As a result, there were requests for about 20 correspondence courses from BSA (Bible School of the Air, the Emmaus work in the Philippines) and requests for Our Daily Bread, as well. The courses were distributed last Sunday to each family that requested them. Please pray that this study will bring Salvation to some.
Thank you all for praying. We do feel and see the results in the work of the Lord around us.
This past Thursday morning we had a baptism in the South China Sea. Two of the young people were baptized during the assembly outing down in San Fernando. It was good to see these young men making a very public testimony of their faith. They are both solid young men with a good future of service for our Lord.
Tomorrow, Sunday, is the last of four classes of the first session of Mini Bible School down at Baguio Gold. We hope to be able to complete chapter three of the book of Hebrews tomorrow, attendance has actually grown since the first week of classes and they are quite attentive. So we are thankful to the Lord. We pray it would be a time of encouragement for those dear saints.
Monday brings a full week of classes in the second session of Bible School at Navy Base Christian Fellowship. These classes will run each evening from 7-9 PM, our goal in this second session is to complete chapters 4-7 of the book of Hebrews.
Last Saturday we had a good Medical and Dental clinic at the chapel. There were well over 150 who came for treatment, and heard the gospel as well. Tracts were distributed, individual sharing of the gospel and the offer of free courses dealing with Salvation were offered. As a result, there were requests for about 20 correspondence courses from BSA (Bible School of the Air, the Emmaus work in the Philippines) and requests for Our Daily Bread, as well. The courses were distributed last Sunday to each family that requested them. Please pray that this study will bring Salvation to some.
Thank you all for praying. We do feel and see the results in the work of the Lord around us.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Update April 21, 2008
Greetings once again to you all. The Lord is so good and faithful and we continue to see His blessed hand at work in our lives. We certainly appreciate your prayers for us, especially with the trips back and forth to Manila, it can be a rather hazardous times sometimes.
We arrived back from Manila on Saturday after spending two days in
San Juan visiting doctors and such. It is always so nice to get back to the mountains after spending a few days in hot Manila.
Yesterday I was the speaker at Navy Base Christian Fellowship in the morning, then in the afternoon we continued our Mini Bible School session down in Baguio Gold. Both went very well, for which we thank and praise our Lord.
I was only able to attend one of the VBS sessions because of the unscheduled trip to Manila. But it went very well and they had about 60 plus kids each day and the gospel was shared both during the week and to the parents on graduation day.
Five from the assembly traveled down to Pangisanan this morning for two weeks of Christian Training Camp. They are five key folks at the assembly and we pray that this would be a profitable time for them all.
My schedule this week is a bit lighter than past weeks so I am looking forward to a time of study in preparation for the week of Bible School I am teaching here the first week of May.
Joyce is doing well, but is facing another more extensive surgery in the months ahead. The doctor has given his ok for here to travel home in May and have the surgery performed when she returns in late July. Since the cancer is in the early stages the delay is not a problem. Joyce is not asking the Lord for healing, but simply that His perfect will be done in her life. She is facing this with strength of character and faith, as she has faced each and every obstacle in her life. The challenges are real, but “The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, than the might waves of the sea” (Ps, 93)
We arrived back from Manila on Saturday after spending two days in
San Juan visiting doctors and such. It is always so nice to get back to the mountains after spending a few days in hot Manila.
Yesterday I was the speaker at Navy Base Christian Fellowship in the morning, then in the afternoon we continued our Mini Bible School session down in Baguio Gold. Both went very well, for which we thank and praise our Lord.
I was only able to attend one of the VBS sessions because of the unscheduled trip to Manila. But it went very well and they had about 60 plus kids each day and the gospel was shared both during the week and to the parents on graduation day.
Five from the assembly traveled down to Pangisanan this morning for two weeks of Christian Training Camp. They are five key folks at the assembly and we pray that this would be a profitable time for them all.
My schedule this week is a bit lighter than past weeks so I am looking forward to a time of study in preparation for the week of Bible School I am teaching here the first week of May.
Joyce is doing well, but is facing another more extensive surgery in the months ahead. The doctor has given his ok for here to travel home in May and have the surgery performed when she returns in late July. Since the cancer is in the early stages the delay is not a problem. Joyce is not asking the Lord for healing, but simply that His perfect will be done in her life. She is facing this with strength of character and faith, as she has faced each and every obstacle in her life. The challenges are real, but “The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, than the might waves of the sea” (Ps, 93)
Monday, April 07, 2008
Update, April 8, 2008
Greetings to all, and thank you so much for checking in from time to time so that you can pray effectively for the Lord’s work here in the mountains of central Luzon.
We are thanking the Lord for a wonderful week. The bible study in Fatima went very well this week and several of the ladies who were unable to make the last meeting were back for the study. Most of them are believers from the assembly there, but there are a couple of women who attend who, as far as we can discern, have never accepted the Lord as Savior. So continue to pray that the saints would be encouraged in their faith, and that those who have not yet come to know Him will recognize their need for the Savior.
The “children’s worship” Sunday went well. Once a quarter the assembly at Navy Base has the young men of the assembly lead the Family Bible Hour. They did a very good job. I spoke on the heart that Sunday, seeking to explain what we mean when we say, “Ask the Lord to come into your heart” or “The Lord is in my heart”. We trust the Lord encouraged His people through the teaching of His word.
Yesterday we had a joint fellowship with the saints meeting at Baguio Gold, Fatima and Navy Base. We met down at Baguio Gold, with the goal of encouraging those dear saints that have been through so much these last months. The ladies had a good time together in praise, fellowship and a bible lesson taught by one of the women from the assembly at Navy Base. The men used the time to do some evangelism below and above where the assembly in located. It was a profitable time. The area is quite poor with several small homes scattered about. The Lord opened up several opportunities to share the gospel with whole families, two of which desire to have home bible studies started. The assembly at Baguio Gold will be doing the follow-up and the elders will be teaching the home studies. We will be doing some follow-up as well in the next couple of weeks, Lord willing.
I begin a new mini bible school at Baguio Gold this coming Lord’s Day. The first session, which will cover the introduction and first three chapters of the book of Hebrews, will run on consecutive Sundays until May 4th. Then May 5-9 we will have evening classes at Navy Base each evening from 7-9. This is the second session for them and will cover chapters four through seven, Lord willing.
So we are excited to see the Lord at work in the hearts and lives of His people, and in the lives of those who have not yet put their trust in Him. Continue to pray that fruit may continue to be produced in both these areas by means of His Spirit.
Joyce is doing well. The pathology department at the hospital in Manila needed to do further testing on the mass removed a couple of weeks ago as the tests they concluded were deemed inconclusive. So we are still in the waiting period. Continue to pray that the mass will be benign. But our faith and trust is in the wisdom of one greater than us, so we will trust in Him whatever may come. Love to you all, and thanks you so much for your prayers.
We are thanking the Lord for a wonderful week. The bible study in Fatima went very well this week and several of the ladies who were unable to make the last meeting were back for the study. Most of them are believers from the assembly there, but there are a couple of women who attend who, as far as we can discern, have never accepted the Lord as Savior. So continue to pray that the saints would be encouraged in their faith, and that those who have not yet come to know Him will recognize their need for the Savior.
The “children’s worship” Sunday went well. Once a quarter the assembly at Navy Base has the young men of the assembly lead the Family Bible Hour. They did a very good job. I spoke on the heart that Sunday, seeking to explain what we mean when we say, “Ask the Lord to come into your heart” or “The Lord is in my heart”. We trust the Lord encouraged His people through the teaching of His word.
Yesterday we had a joint fellowship with the saints meeting at Baguio Gold, Fatima and Navy Base. We met down at Baguio Gold, with the goal of encouraging those dear saints that have been through so much these last months. The ladies had a good time together in praise, fellowship and a bible lesson taught by one of the women from the assembly at Navy Base. The men used the time to do some evangelism below and above where the assembly in located. It was a profitable time. The area is quite poor with several small homes scattered about. The Lord opened up several opportunities to share the gospel with whole families, two of which desire to have home bible studies started. The assembly at Baguio Gold will be doing the follow-up and the elders will be teaching the home studies. We will be doing some follow-up as well in the next couple of weeks, Lord willing.
I begin a new mini bible school at Baguio Gold this coming Lord’s Day. The first session, which will cover the introduction and first three chapters of the book of Hebrews, will run on consecutive Sundays until May 4th. Then May 5-9 we will have evening classes at Navy Base each evening from 7-9. This is the second session for them and will cover chapters four through seven, Lord willing.
So we are excited to see the Lord at work in the hearts and lives of His people, and in the lives of those who have not yet put their trust in Him. Continue to pray that fruit may continue to be produced in both these areas by means of His Spirit.
Joyce is doing well. The pathology department at the hospital in Manila needed to do further testing on the mass removed a couple of weeks ago as the tests they concluded were deemed inconclusive. So we are still in the waiting period. Continue to pray that the mass will be benign. But our faith and trust is in the wisdom of one greater than us, so we will trust in Him whatever may come. Love to you all, and thanks you so much for your prayers.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Update, March 22, 2008 Loakan, Antamok
We had a good trip across the mountains to Loakan, Antamok this morning. It was a trip over some pretty rough roads and the car took a beating, but seemed to do well. It is a small gold mining village, which because it is a bit hard to get to, is rather small and quiet. We were able to hand out several tracts and Emmaus correspondence courses on salvation to folks along the street as well as to the contacts that we have there.
Some of you may remember a couple of months ago Wini Mata, one of the elders at the assembly at Navy Base hit a young child who had to be hospitalized for over a month. Well, as it turns out, this family is where we had the short bible study, and they have become our contact family in Antamok. As of yet none of the family has made a profession of faith, but they have welcomed us with open arms and are very happy to have bible studies in their home.
We met with the Barrangay Captain of the town to get permission to hold a VBS program there in May, and to return for a puppet show at a later date. The town seems to be open to it. Please pray for souls to be saved.
The message on Good Friday went well, for which we thank the Lord, the gospel was presented and challenges given. We trust the Lord will use it for His glory.
Thank you for praying for us and our trip. The Lord kept us safe and kept the car running well….
A take-home Gift.
Some of you may remember a couple of months ago Wini Mata, one of the elders at the assembly at Navy Base hit a young child who had to be hospitalized for over a month. Well, as it turns out, this family is where we had the short bible study, and they have become our contact family in Antamok. As of yet none of the family has made a profession of faith, but they have welcomed us with open arms and are very happy to have bible studies in their home.
We met with the Barrangay Captain of the town to get permission to hold a VBS program there in May, and to return for a puppet show at a later date. The town seems to be open to it. Please pray for souls to be saved.
The message on Good Friday went well, for which we thank the Lord, the gospel was presented and challenges given. We trust the Lord will use it for His glory.
Thank you for praying for us and our trip. The Lord kept us safe and kept the car running well….
A take-home Gift.
March 22, 2008 Pics Loakan, Antamok Continued
The only smooth section of single lane road.
The road was quite rough for several miles. Which made for slow going.
Those who attended the short bible study, among them some of the saints from Navy
Base.
Base.
Heading into Antamok
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Update, March 21, 2008
It has been a busy week, and next week proves to be full as well. We had a visit from two of our language teachers from Manila this past week. It was quite a helpful time in our study of Ilokano, for which we thank the Lord. That language is coming along painfully slow, but it is much what we expected. Currently Aunt Rose Brooks is up for a visit and a much needed rest.
Yesterday we had our second bible study in Fatima. They are quite pleased to have us coming and the study went well. There were not so many in attendance, as it is a holiday here, but we were encouraged, and we pray that they were also encouraged by the Word of our blessed Lord.
Today (Friday) we have a special meeting at the chapel where the seven last words of Christ on the Cross will be remembered. Several of the men will participate in the reading and explanation of the various texts. Then I will be giving a short message concerning the crucifixion of our blessed Lord.
Saturday several of us will be traveling over the mountains to a new outreach about 45 minutes away. Please be praying for the salvation of souls and the beginning of a new bible study in this area.
Sunday morning we have a sunrise service scheduled for 5 am, followed by a breaking of bread, breakfast, and then the regular schedule of meetings. I will be speaking at the sunrise service and Winie Mata will be speaking at the regular meeting. Please be praying that those who visit this Sunday may be moved by the Spirit and convicted of their need for a Savior.
The assembly in Baguio Gold has expressed interest in having a mini bible school there beginning in April. Thank you for praying. The elders believe that a consecutive Sunday afternoon schedule will work best for them. So beginning April 13 and each following Lord’s Day we will be teaching there. Please keep this in your prayers as well.
We head down to Manila on Monday for Joyce’s procedure and biopsy. Please keep her in your prayers. Whatever the outcome of the biopsy we know the faithfulness of our Lord. Pray for safety as we travel, and for wisdom for the doctors. We will send along another update when we have further information regarding Joyce.
Thank you all for your prayers!! We see the results in the lives of men and women, and in our own lives as well.
Yesterday we had our second bible study in Fatima. They are quite pleased to have us coming and the study went well. There were not so many in attendance, as it is a holiday here, but we were encouraged, and we pray that they were also encouraged by the Word of our blessed Lord.
Today (Friday) we have a special meeting at the chapel where the seven last words of Christ on the Cross will be remembered. Several of the men will participate in the reading and explanation of the various texts. Then I will be giving a short message concerning the crucifixion of our blessed Lord.
Saturday several of us will be traveling over the mountains to a new outreach about 45 minutes away. Please be praying for the salvation of souls and the beginning of a new bible study in this area.
Sunday morning we have a sunrise service scheduled for 5 am, followed by a breaking of bread, breakfast, and then the regular schedule of meetings. I will be speaking at the sunrise service and Winie Mata will be speaking at the regular meeting. Please be praying that those who visit this Sunday may be moved by the Spirit and convicted of their need for a Savior.
The assembly in Baguio Gold has expressed interest in having a mini bible school there beginning in April. Thank you for praying. The elders believe that a consecutive Sunday afternoon schedule will work best for them. So beginning April 13 and each following Lord’s Day we will be teaching there. Please keep this in your prayers as well.
We head down to Manila on Monday for Joyce’s procedure and biopsy. Please keep her in your prayers. Whatever the outcome of the biopsy we know the faithfulness of our Lord. Pray for safety as we travel, and for wisdom for the doctors. We will send along another update when we have further information regarding Joyce.
Thank you all for your prayers!! We see the results in the lives of men and women, and in our own lives as well.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Update, March 10, 2008
Greetings to you all in the precious name of our Lord and glorious Savior.
We enjoyed a good and encouraging Lord’s Day yesterday. I believe we are already beginning to experience the fruit of the Men’s breakfast studies at the Breaking of Bread, for which we give thanks to the Lord. It was a sweet time yesterday morning as several of the men shared on the wonder of the blood of Christ, the Lamb of God.
Thank you for your prayers regarding the new study down in Fatima which began last Friday afternoon. We were very much encouraged by seeing ten women who attended the study, for which we thank the Lord. I spoke mostly in Tagalog, but am quickly realizing that I must use more English and more Ilokano for this study as many of them are not fluent in Tagalog. Continue to pray that we may see fruit for His glory as a result of this study. They need much encouragement down in Fatima as they have experienced some deep disappointments over the course of the last year. This study will be each Friday afternoon at 2 PM and is designed to encourage the women living in that area. Some who attend are not saved, so please be praying that the Lord would use these times to bring conviction and salvation into their lives. There is also another new study which will begin this coming Saturday in the same area. Winie, one of the elders in the assembly at Navy Base will be teaching this study. It will be in the home of one who just came to know Christ a couple of weeks ago as we distributed tracts in that area. Pray for her and her family that all may come to know Christ as Savior and Lord!
This coming week I will be speaking down in Baguio Gold. They have asked that I take both the Sunday School hour as well as the Bible hour. We have offered to teach an Evening Bible School for them in April, so be praying that the Lord would use these times to encourage and build up His precious saints there.
The work of the Lord at Navy Base continues to be a constant source of encouragement to my soul. The saints are all so committed to the Lord and to His work and much activity for the Lord is going on through outreaches, though edification of the saints and children’s works. What a blessing it is to me to simply be around these dear saints. They have encouraged my soul over and over again.
Please continue to pray for Joyce. Evidently the doctors have seen in her mammogram and ultra sound something they did not like. So although the first problem has been resolved we are now looking at another. We will need to make another trip to Manila in the next couple of weeks and Joyce will be admitted into the hospital for some more extensive testing. Please keep her in your prayers.
Thank you all so much for your love and prayers. We are strengthened and encouraged by the Lord as a result.
We enjoyed a good and encouraging Lord’s Day yesterday. I believe we are already beginning to experience the fruit of the Men’s breakfast studies at the Breaking of Bread, for which we give thanks to the Lord. It was a sweet time yesterday morning as several of the men shared on the wonder of the blood of Christ, the Lamb of God.
Thank you for your prayers regarding the new study down in Fatima which began last Friday afternoon. We were very much encouraged by seeing ten women who attended the study, for which we thank the Lord. I spoke mostly in Tagalog, but am quickly realizing that I must use more English and more Ilokano for this study as many of them are not fluent in Tagalog. Continue to pray that we may see fruit for His glory as a result of this study. They need much encouragement down in Fatima as they have experienced some deep disappointments over the course of the last year. This study will be each Friday afternoon at 2 PM and is designed to encourage the women living in that area. Some who attend are not saved, so please be praying that the Lord would use these times to bring conviction and salvation into their lives. There is also another new study which will begin this coming Saturday in the same area. Winie, one of the elders in the assembly at Navy Base will be teaching this study. It will be in the home of one who just came to know Christ a couple of weeks ago as we distributed tracts in that area. Pray for her and her family that all may come to know Christ as Savior and Lord!
This coming week I will be speaking down in Baguio Gold. They have asked that I take both the Sunday School hour as well as the Bible hour. We have offered to teach an Evening Bible School for them in April, so be praying that the Lord would use these times to encourage and build up His precious saints there.
The work of the Lord at Navy Base continues to be a constant source of encouragement to my soul. The saints are all so committed to the Lord and to His work and much activity for the Lord is going on through outreaches, though edification of the saints and children’s works. What a blessing it is to me to simply be around these dear saints. They have encouraged my soul over and over again.
Please continue to pray for Joyce. Evidently the doctors have seen in her mammogram and ultra sound something they did not like. So although the first problem has been resolved we are now looking at another. We will need to make another trip to Manila in the next couple of weeks and Joyce will be admitted into the hospital for some more extensive testing. Please keep her in your prayers.
Thank you all so much for your love and prayers. We are strengthened and encouraged by the Lord as a result.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Update, March 3, 2008
Greetings to you all. We had to make a run to Manila this past week as Joyce had developed a bit of a problem and we had to visit with the doctors. The biopsy was negative, for which we praise the Lord, but she will still require some surgery in the next few weeks. We will be calling the doctor today for results from further tests, and for the scheduling of her surgery.
I will be beginning a new bible study down in Fatima this coming Friday. The saints there requested it, and we were more than happy to help. Pray with us that the Lord would use this time to encourage them in their walk with Him.
Saturday morning at 5 AM is our second men’s breakfast study. We will be continuing to look at Worship, using A.P. Gibbs book, “Worship the Christian’s Highest Occupation” Then on the Lord’s day I will be speaking at Navy Base.
I was down visiting with one of the remaining elders from Baguio Gold yesterday and I know they are struggling a bit. So please keep them in your prayers. I have offered to teach an Evening Bible School there in April if they desire it. So we will wait to see what the Lord will open up there. I have been asked to come again and share the word this month as well, so it is becoming a monthly event, which is an answer to prayer for me. There is a real need down there, and we are praying how we might help them. Please be praying with us.
I will be beginning a new bible study down in Fatima this coming Friday. The saints there requested it, and we were more than happy to help. Pray with us that the Lord would use this time to encourage them in their walk with Him.
Saturday morning at 5 AM is our second men’s breakfast study. We will be continuing to look at Worship, using A.P. Gibbs book, “Worship the Christian’s Highest Occupation” Then on the Lord’s day I will be speaking at Navy Base.
I was down visiting with one of the remaining elders from Baguio Gold yesterday and I know they are struggling a bit. So please keep them in your prayers. I have offered to teach an Evening Bible School there in April if they desire it. So we will wait to see what the Lord will open up there. I have been asked to come again and share the word this month as well, so it is becoming a monthly event, which is an answer to prayer for me. There is a real need down there, and we are praying how we might help them. Please be praying with us.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Sagada , Feb 16, 2008
We arrived back from Sagada on Thursday, a bit tired from the trip, but thankful to the Lord for His watch care over us. We left Tuesday morning and were quite surprised to find that much, of what was once rough dirt roads, had now been beautifully paved! The first three hours of the trip across the mountains was a relatively easy drive. Once we past Mt Data things went a bit down hill, as far as the roads are concerned, but the car ran well and handled the rough roads quite easily. There were a couple of areas where landslides were being cleared away and others where new road work was being done, but all in all it was an easy trip. It only took about 6 hours, whereas in the past it was an 8 hour excursion. The views we enjoyed were absolutely spectacular, it is hard to explain unless you travel it yourself, pictures just cannot tell the story.
We made some good initial contacts in Sagada over the three days. Most of the contacts were a result of the time that Mike and Beverly Smits spent there over 13 years ago. Many still remembered them and spoke very highly of them. We pray that we may be able to make further contacts on our next trip up planned for April, Lord willing. We are taking it slow and praying that if it is the Lord’s will for something to develop here that He will open the doors. Please pray with us.
Sagada has changed quite a bit since the last time I was there. It is no longer the isolated village it once was. There are internet cafes, cell phones, satellite TV and much more available than in the past. That is a good thing, I suppose, but also bad thing. There is construction going on in the center of town. Bigger buildings, three and four stories, which block out the beauty of the views from the small town yet meet the every growing tourist travel. It is sad to see, but I suppose it is helping the economy of this small village.
Overall, it was an encouraging trip. We thank the Lord for your prayers for us. Continue to pray that the Lord will give direction for the future. We plan to make a few more trips before deciding whether to seek a place to rent.
I have been a bit under the weather since arriving back in Baguio. I am a bit run down and I have a heavy cold. So please keep us in your prayers. I will be speaking at Navy Base tomorrow (Sunday Feb 17) and will also be joining the saints down in Fatima in the afternoon.
We made some good initial contacts in Sagada over the three days. Most of the contacts were a result of the time that Mike and Beverly Smits spent there over 13 years ago. Many still remembered them and spoke very highly of them. We pray that we may be able to make further contacts on our next trip up planned for April, Lord willing. We are taking it slow and praying that if it is the Lord’s will for something to develop here that He will open the doors. Please pray with us.
Sagada has changed quite a bit since the last time I was there. It is no longer the isolated village it once was. There are internet cafes, cell phones, satellite TV and much more available than in the past. That is a good thing, I suppose, but also bad thing. There is construction going on in the center of town. Bigger buildings, three and four stories, which block out the beauty of the views from the small town yet meet the every growing tourist travel. It is sad to see, but I suppose it is helping the economy of this small village.
Overall, it was an encouraging trip. We thank the Lord for your prayers for us. Continue to pray that the Lord will give direction for the future. We plan to make a few more trips before deciding whether to seek a place to rent.
I have been a bit under the weather since arriving back in Baguio. I am a bit run down and I have a heavy cold. So please keep us in your prayers. I will be speaking at Navy Base tomorrow (Sunday Feb 17) and will also be joining the saints down in Fatima in the afternoon.
Sagada Pics Feb 2008 - Click on Picture to Enlarge
The morning clouds over the mountains, in Benguet Province
Moving out of Benguet Province into Mountain Province.
The road across Mountain Province
Rice Terraces along the way.
Sagada
A shop keeper in Sagada, who remembered Mike and Bev well.
An elderly woman who lived with and helped Mike and Bev Smits
The Sagada Rice Terraces
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