The months of June and July were exciting for our church. June was the start of our Bible college. This year we have 19 Bible students, 13 ladies and 6 men. Our goal is to train these young men and ladies to go and help with the starting of churches all over the Philippines. The men are being trained to start and pastor churches in different towns and cities, while the ladies are learning to play the piano so that they can help with the church Music Ministry and Children’s Ministries.
During the month of June, there was a funeral service for a 17-year-old young man who passed away because of leukemia. His aunt is one of our members, and she asked for me to come. It was a very emotional time for the whole family. The funeral service was held inside their home every night for three days before the burial. This is a Filipino custom that sometimes lasts for a week. During this time the town is invited to give their respect to the family. I was asked to speak to the family and the town and give the Gospel. The Gospel was preached, and the Lord Jesus Christ was glorified.
During the month of July, we had an evangelistic service for the first-year college students. There is a university across from our church location. One time a year, we invite these first-year students for lunch. During this time we sing hymns and Gospel songs and preach the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Afterwards we give them lunch and a John and Romans booklet. Over 90 college students came, and we praise the Lord that many made professions of faith and responded to the preaching and teaching of the Word of God. (Attached are two photos of the funeral service and two photos of the evangelistic service.)
Thank you for your prayers and support.
Mark Palmani