Loakan Baptist Church 56th Anniversary & Christmas Cantata 2012

Loakan Baptist Church celebrates her 56th Anniversary on December 16, 2012. Her outreaches in Daklan, Apalan-Guisset-Beckel-Gumatdang, and Umingan joins in to celebrate the event. The Celebration started Saturday having Ptr. Felipe Rimando as the main speaker and blessed to have also both Ptr. Rimando and Ptr. Jun Salinas speak for the morning service. At the afternoon, the church had their time of fellowship with the outreaches with games, reporting and song numbers. At the evening, LBC Choirc presents their Christmas Cantata. Below shows pictures of the Anniversary event and the Cantata.



Below are the video of the songs presented by (first) Gumatdang group... (sorry, was late to take it in video since I was still learning how to use the portable camera) and (second) videos are two (2) song presentation of "The Living Word Fundamental Baptist Church" of Apalan-Guisset-Beckel group.







Below are videos from the Christmas Cantata of the Loakan Baptist Church Choir. The Title of the Cantata is "The Father's Gift of Love". Conducted by Bro. Jasper John Lamsis. And by the way, there were two songs that have some cut (in tagalog, "may naputol", hehe!)... And if anyone likes to share there videos on different angle, please do inform me.. thanks! =)











Here is a video version from Jamie's account in facebook since my copy for this video is cut off... =) (Thanks Jamie!) =D















The Cantata presentation ends here, the video below is just a few extra video after the cantata



If you have other videos from the cantata itself and want to share, just inform me and we'll see how to add it here for better and orderly viewing. Enjoy and be blessed! =)

just want to test this video below, saved in facebook.. =)

When People Makes things Complicated

“The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, and said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.  They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.” Matthew 19:3-9

The account of the previous is just one of how we, people, complicate things. God’s original design of a married couple is to be one flesh. To be one! Yet men and women have failed to realize this and make this plan to be true to themselves. Sure! There are many reasons why they can’t make this kind of principle or plan into a reality, like one has become unfaithful, or because of temptation, etc. etc. etc. But in reality, there is only one reason, SIN!

Surely, this sin is the biggest problem and also reason why man is separated from God. This is the curse and consequence of that what was done through one man, Adam. Because of sin, man is also doomed to eternal death or separation, which is literally to be eternally thrown into the lake of fire, as the Word of God declares. So, because of sin, things have not become simple and what God has planned and designed man to be is deviated from the original plan.

So does that mean we have no hope? Of course not! Because we have the Good News! That is the Gospel of Jesus Christ! Because of Jesus Christ, died and risen again the third day, Salvation is free to receive by those who believe! Jesus came to be the sacrifice and the Lamb to the slaughter, Who takes away the sin of the World! Him who knew no sin, died and took the punishment of sin so that we who have sinned and to be punished might be justified or declared “NOT GUILTY” by believing on Jesus on Who He says He is! The Son of God! The Messiah! The King of Kings and Lord of Lords! And thereby having the Faith in Him shall He redeem us or bought us back unto Himself. This is the Good News!

But to them who does not believe, then perhaps there is no hope for them. For what hope is there in hoping to those things that shall fade away? What hope is there to find when all things lead to sorrow and death? I wonder?

But for those who have given the hope of Christ and to life eternal, God has given us a wonderful plan and design for our life. It’s not a life filled with so much happiness and delight all our life as what others expect and thought of. But it’s a life filled with joy, joy that is in Christ Jesus, a life abundant as the verse John 10:10 speak of. But seriously, most often man misunderstands what Christ meant. Though we, who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ is given a promise of Heaven, such life is not promised for life on earth. “Abundant” I believe, means more of being connected in Christ, the source of Life, likened to “abiding” in Christ. Therefore being always connected in Christ, knowing His Will and doing His Will, we can’t be deviated to what God has planned for us. The problem with man, even with believers in Christ is that, we intend to live in our own standard, our own delight, our own basis, our own ambition and even plans. Not that our plan is no longer important or has value, but have we always considered on what God has on His mind for us? For God’s ways are not our ways. Our thoughts are not God’s thoughts. Therefore if we intend to live abundantly, it is best to fulfill and pursue the life God intends for us. Anyway, who knows better in using a computer or a phone, the designer or the simple customer?

Surely most often, we misunderstand what God’s plan for us. But in these moments of doubts and unclear situation, God desires that we still trust and have faith in Him. At times of doubts, pain most often we shall suffer. But if only we could always have that attitude of Job saying “Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” Surely in time, we shall come forth as gold!

So bottom line? Most often, we complicate things because we deviate from what God intends us to be. We often say to the Potter, “No! Don’t make me like this!” Wanting that our will be fulfilled, more than God’s. A simple illustration of why we make things complicated is when we are given such an amount of money. God desires that we be a good steward of what God has given us. But when we place that money in our hands and walk by the shop or SM (we call it) and see “SALE 50%!” or “Buy 1, take 1!” Soon enough that money is gone in an instant! Then, when the need arises like we get sick or when our love ones get sick, we go to our relatives and ask to borrow money! Such a tragedy!

Be Wise! Be Content! Be Faithful! And Hope for the God of our Salvation!

The Ambassadors for Christ

I wonder how indeed this group started? Surely it was started by the church itself… but what was their goal? For what purpose was it made for? As my father has told me, it is an extension of the church, whose goal is to reach fellow young people with the gospel of Christ. I believe it was intended indeed to evangelize and disciple young people, being a part of the Body of Christ.

I’ve had my shares of memories with the Young People, esp. of the Loakan Baptist Church. Most of it was indeed a bunch of great memories of fun, enjoyment and laughter… Other memories have also made me know more and build my relationship with Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.

Surely not all things were a fun ride there were memories of conflicts, strife, and misunderstandings. But one thing I really appreciate was that we were as transparent as we were before. May not be as transparent as crystal clear, but each individual knew who we were and at times understand where each one is coming from. Most conflicts were settled, but there were also conflicts that may have lasted too long enough to be forgotten.

Having been as past officer of the group, I had the great desire to continue to share our previous experiences to the new generations of young people.  I also greatly desire to disciple them through the teaching of the Word of God. At some point, I also had my failures and perhaps my greatest failure is to share the gospel of Christ and extend the joy of having Christ to other young people of the community of Loakan. But that was a lesson I just recently greatly realized. I was many times reminded of the great commission even when I was on position of Presidency of the group, but never have I realized the impact of knowing and believing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior in relation to discipling and training each individual.

I only realized this when I joined my father in his called mission. I am set to teach and train new young people of a different place. And here I’ve really realized that there is a need to plant first the seed of the gospel of Christ in someone’s heart before one could really water and take care of the seed. How indeed can one till the ground and water the ground yet no seed has been planted? It is plain vain and worthless! Far more than this, it is never one’s work in actuality for one to be saved. It’s all God’s supernatural work. Christians are only meant to be an instrument to share the gospel of Christ and it will be Holy Spirit’s work to bring someone to truly have an encounter or experience of knowing Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and that is through Faith. Methods and plans are just but little matters to God for true Faith is brought by the working of the Holy Spirit never ours. Methods and plans are made to lure unbelievers like nets to the fishes of the sea. And once the gospel of Christ is preached then the Holy Spirit will be at work. Surety it is not 100% that all who hears and sees will believe and understand for even Christ himself says “And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.” (Matt. 13:14-15). It is therefore done with much endurance and patience until one understands and be converted.

Now, why do I share these things? It is but a plain desire to teach the lessons one has learned throughout the years and that if possible, failures may not be repeated but more advancement to the work and the ministry on which God Himself has established. With new generations emerging while others fade away, it is my desire to make remembrance to the foundations of why the Ambassadors for Christ have been established. And also to challenge each one to test one’s Faith in Christ for the evil days have come and the coming of our Lord draws nearer every day! Indeed may we continue to fulfill God’s Great Commission being as one called an Ambassador for Christ!

The Carnal Christian

For quite some time, I was given an interest on this topic. For even within the Doctrines of the Baptist denominations, especially from where I am, seem to have accepted this doctrine. Before anything goes out of hand, I wish to declare that whatever I share here is not fully the stand of the church I belong, but surety I know for a fact that there are those who also agrees.

Even from the very start, the Bible doesn’t teach that whatever the pastor or the leaders teaches, is already what we stand for or believe. It maybe for a time but until one reaches a time of spiritual maturity, the only standing ground one has is the Word of God or Jesus Christ himself. Not bound by any other person or religious sect or organization. (See Acts 17:11) It doesn’t also mean that we as Christians separate from the church, but simply we as Christian should know where do we stand and for whom? For the Bible is clear to say, there is only One God, One Father, One Christ, One Spirit, One Lord and One gospel; For by which one and only reason why the church unite as one. But certainly Christ himself declares too that soon there shall be false prophets and teachers, and also proclaim there shall be other gospels, tools of the enemy to deceive mankind, that only few might come to know the only TRUTH.

Therefore let us go back in the topic of carnal Christianity. I’ve already heard two guys having disbelief on the existence of such, a Carnal Christian. And I must say, I too do not belief that such a Christian exist and if one thinks they are, I believe they may be in a sense one who has not really been saved nor have indeed acknowledged who Christ is in his / her life. But I also understand that many seem to believe they do exist and at times make themselves as examples.

I’ve searched through Google some of commentaries or articles about the matter and I’ve read that Carnal Christian is defined as being a believer of Jesus Christ yet constantly living like the World (Based from I Corinthians 3:1-4). In addition, from the previous chapter, Apostle Paul talked about the “Spiritual man” and the “Natural man”; Spiritual, describing those that have received and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; whereas, the Natural as the one who does not believe on Jesus Christ.

Now, here comes the word “Carnal” pertaining to the church of Corinth. If I may understand, Apostle Paul was rebuking them in the sense that He is questioning “Are you not like as unto those that of the world?” or in some other sense “Is that how you live as Christian?” I believe that’s what Apostle Paul was doing. And not judging that they are so called “Carnal Christian” with which we define as Christians who constantly live in the worldly life. I much prefer these Christians as so called “Christian babies” which Apostle Paul also declared unto them, “…even as unto babes in Christ.” just after the word “carnal.” 

One which I do believe is that, there is a possibility that a Christian can be still live like the world but would NOT be CONSTANTLY enjoying over what he / she is doing.  Or such a scenario can’t be prolonged by God himself. For God will bring chastisement or punishment to His children if they sin against Him, in order to bring His child back to the path of righteousness (Heb. 12:6). But if one continues to do sin and enjoys it, even with the rebukes from the Word of God, may be a big question whether one as really received and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ.

Truthfully a spoken word is one thing, but a word accompanied by their lives is a totally different thing. Action speaks louder than words as they say. Therefore it is not enough one can say they are Christians or saved yet they continue to do sin or go against the Will of God.

If one lives as such? Be mindful and be struck for it is a dangerous thing that when we face the Lord Jesus Christ and say “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?” and the Lord and Savior says “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:21-23)

A Visit to Gumatdang

Last August 23, 2012, Thursday, I had an opportunity to visit Gumatdang, as my first time to go there since my father started to have bible study in the area. As from what I've heard though, we weren't the first to share God's Word in the place, but nevertheless, it's a great opportunity for which God has opened inorder to share His Word, esp. the gospel of Christ.

I had the opportunity to see the people who gather in the area, most of whom are mothers, I assume. I also had the opportunity to witness a little kid who likes to imitate my father playing the guitar. I would estimate his age at 2 or 3 years old. He too have his own little guitar, enough for him to hold. Some videos and photos I've taken is shown below this article.

From details I've heard from my mother and from my own observation as well, the people's livelihood in the area are through mining and farming. Most of which are mining, since wherever one looks at, there are many evidences of mining activities. Gumatdang seems to me like a place rarely been touched by city life. Although that's just my opinion or my first impression. The road as well in the area haven't been fixed yet.

From what I've known, the place can be accessed coming from Happy Hallow or going through Tuding. Accessing the place through Tuding, we walked for about 15-20 minutes to reach the place of our destination away from the road, whereas, my mother said if we've walked from Happy Hallow it would probably take 30 minutes. But walking from Happy Hallow, would mean a very steep hike coming back while the other side has lesser tiring hike.

As of now, there are about 10-20 people gathering for the bible study every Friday, and also desiring to be formed as a group or most likely a new church in the area. With their desire to be one, my father now have to teach once again and make them understand what a church is and of Christian living, but of course first and foremost securing their Faith in Christ Jesus, that is Salvation.

How is one saved? that is by grace through faith. God giving us His only begotten Son Jesus Christ, Him who knew no sin, died and took the penalty of our sin and he who believes and trust in that Truth, is saved (John 3:16, Romans 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8&9). Not by our own works or effort but simply having that Faith in Christ Jesus does one becomes a Christian. And that Faith is the seed that grows that brings forth fruit or fruits, an evidence that one is truly a child of God and follows the will of his Father.

With their desire to be a church, makes a new sense of challenge and a burden to carry, knowing that my father is only one and that we are still in the verge of establishing the fundamentals of the Christian church in Apalan-Guisset. Indeed once again, Christ Word is true, "the harvest is plenteous but the laborers are few." Sadly indeed there are few Bible believing and Christ-centered Workers who fulfills the great commission. Sadly there are laborers who takes more importance on what they benefit from doing God's great commission. Sadly so few are those who would lay down their life for others. Or perhaps, there are too many professed Christians very comfortable in their seats, just plainly enjoying the scenery of their church stage. I may be too much harsh on these words, but this statement is also a challenge for me. As I've been in the kind of picture too before and still prone to being one again. It's just that we Christians seem to easily forget why we are called the church and what was Christ's purpose for His bride, His body, the church in this world of darkness... Matthew 16:18 states that Christ's church will penetrate or attack the gates of hell and it couldn't withstand it. The problem these days, few Christians go to the battle. And, many are deceived and cornered to enjoy the pleasures of this world.

It's a painful picture how that Christians let others not hear the gospel of Christ. It's painful to see people walking pass by you while knowing they are uncertain of their final destination. Oh, pray that the Lord of the harvest send forth more laborers.



(My first visit to gumatdang for Bible study, my father playing the guitar while a kid immitates him. Sorry for the low resolution as I don't have a good and strong camera. If you want to donate (hehe!) feel free to contact me... =D...)

THE LIVING WORD FUNDAMENTAL BAPTIST CHURCH HISTORY

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God,” this so states by the Word of God in the beginning of time; The Word, the Living Word that is Jesus Christ! The same caused the beginning of His church in the Apalan-Guisset, Loakan Itogon, Benguet.

Because of God’s Word and by God’s grace, Ptr. Hubert Caroy’s return in the ministry sparked a new journey, a journey to continue the work of preaching the gospel of Christ. Year 2009, Ptr. Caroy started preaching to churches as pulpit supply for churches without a pastor. He preached recently in places like Cabuyao, Camp 6, Burgos, Daclan and other places where he was invited and scheduled. Year 2010 of July while coming back from Daclan, he met Mrs. Remy Diaz, previous member of the Guisset Baptist Church, and asked her where she came from. And she said that she joined a service in a Born Again group since it was Sunday. She also stated that they were hopping from church to church near them regardless of the church denomination, a reason caused by the demobilization of Guisset Baptist Church. Having heard of their circumstance, a burden was given to Ptr. Caroy along with his wife to start bible studies in their place called Apalan. With much prayer and God’s leading, Ptr. Caroy was free of other schedule except for his speaking engagement in Camp 6 and Daclan once every month.

By August, Ptr. Hubert Caroy with his wife started the bible studies in Apalan every Sunday, near Guisset area. Since there were also a few children in the place of Apalan, Ptr. Pat and Mrs. Rebecca Eslao joined to help out as Mrs. Eslao handled the children. Mrs. Beth Mat-an came along too as she helped esp. on finances for the gas and transportation. As they continued to have the bible study and coming back from Apalan, passing along Beckel, they also met Mrs. Juliet Apidos, whose family was previous members of Guisset Baptist Church and was at that moment joining a Bible Baptist church whose services were being held at their house. With their desire to also join Ptr. Caroy with his bible studies in Apalan, their family members took turns. Some of them had to stay while others accompanied Ptr. Caroy. As the Apidos Family members continue to join Ptr. Caroy and hear the gospel preached, some of them were given a clear understanding of the gospel of Christ and was then convicted by the Holy Spirit to truly receive Christ as their Lord and Savior. As time goes by and circumstances changed, soon the whole family joined Ptr. Caroy in Apalan. Some old faces known to Ptr. Caroy joined in as well in their Bible Study.

With the ministry growing Ptr. Caroy wanted his children to join in, so he asked his children to help with the ministry in Apalan. Then his son Roldan responded to the call to help in the ministry and committed to start year 2011. His son tried to handle the kids at first, but proved to be hard-up on teaching kids. Therefore, Roldan looked for persons to help with the children’s ministry. Ms. Janice Galong then responded to help in the ministry, therefore allowing Roldan to minister to the young people.
One Sunday of January 2011, Mrs. Vicky Macay and her son Moren, relatives of Ptr. Hubert Caroy from Loakan went along as well to see the ministry. And on that Sunday, suddenly, many young people came to visit and had Bible study and fellowship in Apalan. They introduced themselves as the children of the Delmas’ families coming from Guisset and are also acquainted with Moren Macay. They soon requested to have services as well in Guisset which then made to an agreement to hold services alternately in Apalan and Guisset every Sunday. With new professions of faith in Christ Jesus and as picture of one identifying oneself as a follower of Christ, 20 individuals followed Jesus Christ through water baptism last February 27, 2011.

As the ministry grew, along with trainings and children’s ministry, more challenges came as well as the enemy’s strategies to disturb and distract the advancement of the ministry. But with prayer and God’s unfailing grace, God’s work continues to move forward. By April 2011, Ptr. Hubert Caroy was then absorbed and commissioned by Loakan Baptist Church as a Missionary Pastor for the province of Benguet and to wherever God leads; therefore accepting Apalan-Guisset as their mission point. A second batch of believers with 8 individuals followed Jesus Christ through baptism of water last October 22, 2011.

With new believers in Christ, Ptr. Caroy and his family are now tasked to help the group grow more spiritually, discipled, organized and established as the body of Christ in the locality. Therefore Ptr. Caroy started to teach the Church Covenant and the Church’s bylaws and constitution, which will help the group understand more of God’s principles and the church’s roles and responsibilities. As God’s Word is preached, challenging the believers in Christ to also take part on the Great Commission, Mrs. Remy Diaz from Apalan along with Mrs. Rowena Binaldo from Daclan were given also the desire to reach their relatives in the place called Cubabeng. Since Ptr. Caroy still had a schedule for Daclan once a month, he thought of hitting two birds with one stone, therefore, committing to go there along with some members of the newly formed group to share the gospel of Christ whenever assigned to go to Daclan. But due to circumstances, it wasn’t easy; nevertheless, every opportunity given was taken in order to proclaim the gospel of Christ to them that has ears to hear, even if the hearers were mostly old.

By September 2011, the group elected their officers as a fellowship whereas, Ptr. Caroy temporarily appointed Mr. Rene Apidos, Mr. Bernal Delmas, and Mr. Moren Macay as Deacons for the group. To ask God’s power and continues leading, Ptr. Caroy also decided to hold Prayer Meetings every Wednesday at Beckel, where the Apidos family resides. Lord Supper was also observed once every month as agreed by the fellowship starting Dec. 4, 2011. And, the name “The Living Word Fundamental Baptist Church” soon was decided as a name for the group last May 2012.

These ministries continued on and God continues to lead new individuals and open places like Cubabeng, Beckel and Gumatdang for the hearing of the gospel of Christ. Some individuals came in and some went out but with hope that the seed of the gospel of Christ was planted in their hearts and they be continue to be a blessing wherever they may be.

All these things happened, surely not by chance but by God’s own leading as He used not only Ptr. Caroy to labor in His harvest field but also those with a willing heart to serve the Master and Lord of the harvest. To name a few of these, are Bro. Daniel Raymundo, Bro. Gino Cabangdi and Bro. Rey Pitas, who greatly rendered much in transportation and other means of services. And, for those others, too many to name, that has given their time, effort, funds and prayers; The Living Word Fundamental Baptist Church is surely eternally grateful. Thus, their labor is not in vain in the Lord.

And for all these things, let all glory be to God Almighty and to His Son Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, for the day of September 1, 2012, marks another episode and experience of His Faithfulness as it has been joyfully celebrated God giving us the Victory in Christ Jesus!

Jesus, Si-kam i Ensemesemek ko (My Jesus, I love Thee Ibaloi version)

Jesus, si-kam i ensemesemek ko,
Jet si-kam i piyan ko ja dawan ko,
Jet amtak jey si-kam i ka maptengan,
Jet niman ma, eg taka mabebtawan.

Sota at piyapiyan ko ja ngaaw;
K'wan ko nem daddad sak ja eg mebedaw,
Nem inamtak i kasi ked nen Cristo,
Jet na-imdengak ni in-ibjag ko so.

Epangdo'n pasiya ja sinmek mowak;
Etey ka shi koros may pangkep si-kak;
Niman'na amtak itan' na semek mo,
Nay semekak ngo'n si-kam shiya poso.

Mansedamat Kito'n Jesus (Praise the Savior, Ye who know Him Ibaloi version)

Mansedamat kito'n Jesus,
Si-katajo'n totoo to,
Ni emin'na in-akan to
Son si-katajo.

Si Jesus i emengi-kan
ni tayoka pan-imdengi,
No si-kato i panshindi,
ekak malogi.

Ayshi'y toka panbediwi,
Na-anos so ni emati,
Ayshi'y toka noman dabsi,
Piyal mo niman.

I-sop mo kami son si-kam,
Angken eg kami nay-anam,
Ingke'd odopen mo kami,
No ondaw ka di.

No ondaw kito'd naykayang,
Jet sha kito ma iparang
Ni na-apilan to'n bakdang.
Ja eg mankodang.

THE BEGINNING OF A NEW MINISTRY

Actually, it's not really new, but probably new for me. As of this moment, I am trying to start or organize a new ministry in a particular place called Beckel without me being there, but with the help of the young people of Loakan Baptist Church, specifically by the AWANA Clubs of the church; Also, with the help of fellow believers in Christ in the place of Beckel, La Trinidad, Benguet.

It’s quite a challenge, making a vision or an idea to be a reality. The idea hit me even before I was in Loakan Baptist Church helping in the AWANA Clubs ministry. The vision was about reaching and teaching children in another kind of method but with the inspiration of the AWANA Clubs Ministry. It’s like a modification of the AWANA Clubs program. Although it was just a vision or an idea, I was the only one desiring at that moment. Every after year, this was my desire for the AWANA Clubs in the Loakan Baptist Church due to difficulties the club was experiencing, esp. with regards to the financial needs and requirements. I wanted to try simplifying the program in terms of material and people required to be involved but still be able to retain the basics and principles of the AWANA Clubs Ministry. Although as I have said, it was just a simple lonely idea that no one had the heart to help in making it work yet at that time. But that was history and now being in the Mission field with my father, his desire to reach out to different places and people has truly affected me. But with too many places to go to and people to share God’s Word, my father can’t do it alone, a reason why I’ve committed myself in supporting his endeavors as well as my Father in Heaven’s mission. 

Truly in the field I’ve seen how great the labor is, and how few the Lord’s laborers are. I’ve also seen different kinds of laborers. But perhaps I wouldn’t dwell on that. As a Christian and as a church, the number one goal why we are still here is to fulfill and obey God’s Great Commission: “The spreading of the gospel of Christ and teaching and training them God’s principle and leading them to obey Him as well” (Matthew 28:18-20). I’m not saying that as Christian we all leave our homes or work and do witnessing (but that is a very good idea hehe!). But, simply as one who claims to be Christian, one must know: “God’s will and desire is that He could redeem those that are lost”. Therefore one must constantly take part, even in the smallest detail in helping to reach that goal fulfilled. The problem at times, we tend to be more focused on the world and not on the WORD, the Lord Jesus Christ. Anyway if you are a Christian, you should know and understand because the Holy Spirit should be working in and through you. The great commission is not only for full-time laborers of God but for ALL who believe. But if you do not understand, check your heart; maybe you haven’t truly received the Lord Jesus Christ in your life as your Lord (Master) and Savior.

Nevertheless, let me go back in my topic; truly our mission as Christian is to GO and PREACH the gospel and TEACH that they might know HIM more that they might be lead in truly obeying the Father’s will. And I believe that is also the AWANA’s goal. Anyway, it’s every church ministry’s goal to do the same. Going afar from these goals, makes the ministry nothing more but sounding cymbals; making sound but worth nothing but a noise. Or in terms of one word, it’s vain!
So as part of fulfilling the great commission, the idea of a modified AWANA was re-ignited. And my sister Jochebed was able to understand and given the heart as well. Having given her the ideas she was able to start making those ideas at work. Although at certain circumstance, she wasn’t able to finish it; I had to accomplish the task and to try to think through how things it would work. So then, the Bible Heroes Club came to exist, as just a simple thought of naming it. Nevertheless, we were able to at least produce the needed materials. Great thing there’s what we call Ink-Flow printers, printers that could save much compared to printing on other shops or something.
Now, we only needed people to help, therefore with Loakan Baptist Church flowing with many young people, I thought of them as being of great help. At first, it was disappointing with my expectations, but I believe God settled things well having given us the mind to make it work and the heart to truly commit and serve God.

So it happened, the leaders of the AWANA Clubs were able to schedule themselves. But as we know, the enemy won’t simply let it all go, a probable reason why suddenly in the place of Beckel, 2 groups of different denomination started a children’s ministry through feeding program. It was again a disheartening circumstance; nevertheless, we had to trust in God’s leading.

The place was settled and the invitation was given to kids, and August 12, 2012, Raquel Tecne, Mervhi Berbano, and Krystal Balagot went to the place of Beckel to start the children’s ministry or we may call it, the Bible Heroes Club. Starting with 10 kids, it may be few but most likely a great start, since it’s a doorway enabling God’s Word to be planted in the hearts of these kids. But it doesn’t end there for it’s just the beginning. Surely there will be more battles and challenges but as long as the Lord leads surely He will fight for us for the battle belongs to the Lord!
So begins a new ministry!

(below are pictures taken from the first club meeting.)

Lord, send forth more Laborers

It's been almost 2 years I've been in my Father's ministry, or probably more than two (I think I forgot my timeline). And it seems the harvest continuous to grow vast than ever... Now? My father goes to Apalan-Guesset, Cubabeng, Beckel and a new target place called Gumatdang. Recently my father held Bible Studies in the area of Gumatdang and as what I've heard there are now utmost 20 adults who are gathering for the Bible Study. I haven't been to the place yet as my Father goes there every Friday and/or Saturday, days where I'm at work. I wish those who go could take pictures too so that I may see the people and the place. But probably they were busy studying God's Word.

It's just awesome and delightful hearing their reports about Gumatdang. But as my father continues to share the gospel to different places... It seems there is a great need for more laborers to support each area of the ministry. As of now, I too am concentrated on trying to start a children's ministry in Beckel, since Bible Studies seem to be a hard method to use on that place. And, still few open their houses for God's Word and most often circumstances tend to make it more difficult.

As I try to organize and start the children's ministry with the help coming from the young people of Loakan Baptist Church, truly the task is too much to handle and bear. So, I'm simply clinging and trusting on the power of God and hoping for the working of the Holy Spirit to His people and to those that needs to hear God's Word. Number one struggle at this point is truly the people or volunteers for this ministry. It is indeed hard when there is no people to be sent for the harvest. Second may be materials to use... or perhaps provisions.. But with hope and trust in God and according to His will, He will provide!

Personally, it's truly a big question to myself or a struggle perhaps, knowing that I'm not a full-time worker of the Lord, yet I'm like giving much time, effort and even finances in the ministry. But in actuality, that's what I believe a Christian should be. Christianity is not a simple "to do" list in life, but a life that ought to be lived. I'm not saying that as Christians, we drop everything we're doing and just do ministries, etc. But simply as a Christian, when God gives us a burden and opportunities to serve, then we ought to fulfill. It's just like the people who are called for their positions, as Pastors, Evangelists, etc. As an individual Christian, God has not called us to simply watch and just give money and let the workers do their job, God has given us the "Great Commission". Not only to the disciples, the apostles, pastors, or evangelists, but to all who believe in Christ Jesus (Matt. 28:18-20). I'm just simply stating that in our everyday life, God should be there and fulfilling His Will. And when God calls us according to His will, we therefore should claim it and fulfill it. But if we turn our heads or ears away from the call, are we not stiff-necked people like the Israelites? Sadly many Christians don't often have that kind of realization. And when one does realize... it's never easy... For it's truly a battlefield. Why? because we're inside the borders of our enemy line. I mean, we're in the enemy's territory... That's the BIG reason why it's never easy. BUT of course it doesn't end there. We have GOD! And truly, it's a matter of simple FAITH and simple TRUST.... but human as we are, we are prone in disbelief, doubt and discouragement. BUT still, as Christians, we already are in Victory... It's just truly a matter of standing for that Victory Christ gave! For Christ said in the cross of Calvary, "IT IS FINISHED!"

The struggle of penmanship

It's been a long time having not been able to write something. Pretty busy much I think. Time has always been a hard thing to cope up with. So much things to do yet sometimes can't even do it. Nevertheless, it's not my topic for this post. It's about my struggle in my handwriting skill. As time truly emerge and technology too. Computers have been one of which had taken much of our time. And my simple writing skill in terms of hand writing ability seem to have been one of the casualties of being skilled in typing through computers..

Although I must admit, it has been a long struggle even before when I was in grade school. Every school grade my teacher had to put me on training for writing cursive alphabets. But for some reason, I survived my schooling. And when I was in college? Beautifying my hand writing wasn't that much of a problem. Oh well, to cut the story short. I was more exposed in computers than in simple handwriting skill. But because of it, gave me probably one of the major concerns in my life, when talking about important documents or finances or whatever. Because even my signature had been a victim of it. I can't really have a consistent signature of my own.

Because of this struggle, I actually tried to "google" about this problem before. To my gladness, I found some forums talking about the same struggles and their experiences as well. Although I haven't expressed my own agreement or sentiments. Just added on my confidence or no worries, knowing at least I wasn't alone.

These days and perhaps for a long time, signature through consistent penmanship has been a part of man's daily life, for the purpose of identifying someone. But truthfully, it is not always the case. And I think I could say that I am one example or evidence. Sadly to say, this system might be here for quite a longer time. And of course the hard part it, financial documents demand it. Although I'm sure, signature is not the main thing that really identifies a person. It only represents a part of the person. But because of systems and routines, it appears to be so. And society seem to be required to live by it.

Anyway, far more than that, there are others that identifies a person. And one thing that man has been able to  invent, is the ID system. But as always, systems has it's flaws as well. And sometimes used and abused for the wrong purposes, more so when it is connected to the so called "money". That is why I'm probably not worrying much, cause anyway, I don't have "money" (hehe! Although I would like to have too! hehe!).

Because of technology, there are other identifying systems that are now being adopted and implemented. And if movies are right, identification through body parts are now being accepted. Like eyes, finger prints and others. Recently I actually received my SSS ID, and part of it includes other IDs: PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG and... forgot the other one... In other words it's 4 IDs in 1! Anyway, this is just another example of man's invention on identifying a person and by putting all things in one. (Hehe!) Just reminded of another kind of ID probably to be invented soon and it's already prophesied in the Bible. It's something that they will require, for without it one could never buy food or clothes written in Revelation 13:17. The mark of the beast. Although it's not explicit and detailed about what really is written in Rev. 13:17, it's really something to study. As a Christian and an IT, one could really believe this as an ID placed inside of a man. Just think of all the advantages: being able to monitor each individual, instant, easy for security, and to ensure order and peace... Lolz! And of course, I wouldn't want to take part of that since I'm a Christian and I believe truly on what the Word of God states. For if I would take it, it means like taking the seal of the Anti-Christ, the beast. Therefore identifying yourself to be owned completely and absolute by Satan himeslf. Anyway, just stating facts and also about my beliefs.

And through it all, I know on the the Christ of whom I follow. Jesus Christ is my Lord and my Savior. That's what matters most. And as a believer, I know I am but a pilgrim on this earth, who serves my Lord and my God, while striving and surviving on this earth. Therefore going back to my handwriting problem, I really need to try to at least to go back training my hand to write again. Therefore, it's practice time! =)

AWANA Ministry

AWANA through the years.... Loakan Baptist Church AWANA Ministry has been quite a long journey. Although tedious but somewhat fruitful as it journeys through, with God's own special leading and dealing with leaders and clubbers. Here's a video that may bring back memories to those who has their lives been touched by the Lord through the AWANA Ministry in the Loakan Baptist Church.



Please do continue to pray as the AWANA extends the years of reaching and training kids for Christ as new generations emerges and more leaders and workers are needed to be trained to further the ministry of AWANA. To God be the glory!

Recent Events in Summer Missions

Here are pictures taken from recent past Summer activities by the LBC-YP and as they took part in missions activities in Apalan, Guesset, and Daklan Church-Family Retreat mixed with Sunday Activities on the month of May


All through out the activities esp. the DVBS held in Apalan-Guesset, we'd like to thank all those who've helped in prayers, financial support and manpower to accomplish and fulfill our goal of teaching, evangelizing and training kids in the Word of God and with the Gospel of Christ. With much gratitude, we praise and thank God! All Glory Be His!

Below are slideshows of DVBS held in Apalan-Guesset

Loakan Baptist Church Easter Cantata

Here are videos from the Loakan Baptist Church Easter Cantata presentation. Some may not be still available or on the process of looking for other videos uploaded. =)


The Days of Darkness



My Sin



Blessed is He



If you could see me now. Solo by Ptr. Lemuel Pay-an



All Rise Solo by Ms. Sharon Shayna Saugen

Narrating my experience on Missions

It has been a year already that I have been able to be with my father and mother, reaching out to a little far too distant from home. My father and mother started to go to Apalan last year without even a sure back-up or support, nevertheless they went. Knowing their desire to reach out to people who needs to grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I gave my support by voluntarily going with them and of course, some financial needs. Year 2011 of January, I committed myself in fully going with them and leave my home church as well as some of my ministries. I was given the task to teach young people by first leading them to know Christ as their Lord and Savior; Afterwhich, to teach and train them in the principles of God. To be honest, it was my father still who mostly have led them to know Christ, whereas, I continue to be a discipler or a teacher of God’s Word.

There I saw the need for others to know Christ more and I have seen how many are eager also to learn of the Lord Jesus Christ. I usually compare my home church from that I see and experience in the mission field, and truly made me see broadly the blessing and advantages of a nearby home church. Sadly, sometimes these blessings or advantages are merely taken for granted. And most often, are only kept and only shared within the walls of the church building, never to abound and bless others by it. If it does bless others, it is but a taste.

Training young people have been such more struggling than I've ever encountered, probably because I only see them once every week. Nevertheless, I thank God for His continuing guidance, wisdom, empowerment and everything I ever need to continue to do His work. To impart everything I know in a little span of time is such a tremendous task but maybe fulfilling if such has been acquired or accomplished. Although I too have to put in mind, spiritual growth is never my work to do, but of the Holy Spirit. That is why making sure one has truly come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior is essential and very important.

Most often, the struggle we often deal with is of course are finances. With the increasing difficulty of living here on earth due to economic crisis, such as fuel consumption, food and other demands; such were hindrances. But thank God for people who continuously are used by God to help in this ministry. God has been able to provide what is needed at its appointed time. Insomuch we are so in great thanksgiving for people who have been willing to be used by God through this aspect of ministry. He provides simply enough. And, may God be glorified by those things!

After the month of April 2011, I fully gave up all ministries I've been handling at our home church at the same time my home church accepted my father as a missionary to the province of Benguet and where ever God may lead. At that point, Guesset has been also a place of which we ministered to and by request; we decided to have our services interchangeably every Sunday. Even before Apalan, my father was already preaching to Daclan, the adopted Mission point of Loakan Baptist Church. And added to this is, my father also made to a point to go to the place called Cubabeng, wherein relatives of 1 member from Apalan and 1 from Daclan resides. With the desires of these members that their relatives will also hear God's Word and the gospel, they requested my father to go to that place. Therefore, he made schedule once every month; having therefore, me as to handle the services in Apalan or Guesset, with the help of volunteer servants of the Lord.

As we went along, my father realized the importance of prayer meeting in the ministry. Therefore he decided to have prayer meeting in the place called Beckel, where some members of the Apalan-Guesset Fellowship reside. I too requested to have a young people fellowship, to add more time in teaching and training young people, therefore we had to take Sunday afternoon for that at the same time, my father decided to set a prayer meeting for adults.

So to summarize our activities in a regular month: Every Sunday we go interchangeably either Apalan or Guesset to have our Sunday Services; Worship Service in the morning, while Young people fellowship / training and adult's prayer meeting in the afternoon. Since at times, our vehicle is not enough for all to ride on, the vehicle has to go back and fetch out the others. Then, my father goes to Daclan every second Sunday and to Cubabeng on fourth Sunday of the month, while I stay and handle things in Apalan or Guesset. But since as of this moment, Daclan has been able to have a new Pastor, in the person of Ptr. Lowell Achedera, my father is now relieved of going to Daclan. We still go to Beckel every Wednesday night for a prayer meeting, and my Father recently have also started having Bible Studies in Beckel every Saturday.

As for now, there is a lot of things going on, planning to pursue a new church or Body of Christ in Beckel at the same time in Cubabeng, while we train young people in Apalan-Guesset, with the hope that in a few span of time, they could stand on their own and start to do the Will of God as well. Surely these are great opportunities and tasks to pursue, but it never means it’s an easy task. All throughout, there has been a growing struggle and battle wherever and whenever we minister for the Lord. As my father envisions pursuing these things, there are so many great needs, hindrances and struggles waiting ahead. And perhaps all we can only do is ask God to be on our side and let His Holy Spirit work through us and to His people.

Channel of blessing

It is a great joy to be part of being a channel of blessing even with just on simple things. Last December 2011, we received blessings in a form of material items or packages. These gifts were given by a school, which I don't exactly remember the name, but perhaps I only know as where Ma'am Joy Cawaon, wife of Manong Nicky, work with. Their school selected our group "Apalan-Guesset Fellowship" for the recent year 2011 as where they would share their blessings and extend help as well, with some goods and usable items.

Manong Nicky contacted me through manang nadj, through a text message. Saying manong Nicky wanted to talk to me before Sunday. I wasn't really sure of what the agenda was or never did expect anything like it. But, alas! 30 items or packages to be given to families and bags for kids. As manong Nicky explained, it's one way perhaps to encourage or entice people to continue and/or hear the gospel of Christ.

At some point, I was caught off-guard not knowing how to deal with such. We discussed with my parents, as how to give it, since it's limited to 30 families and knowing that other than ministering to Apalan-Guesset, we also minister to places of Beckel, Daclan, and Cubabeng... So we decided primarily to share the blessings to families of the Apalan-Guesset Fellowship. We first gave 4 packages to members with families of the said fellowship who actually resides in Beckel (30 minutes-ride from Baguio City) when we had our prayer meeting last January 4, 2012. On January 8, 2012, my father and mother with a couple of companions went to Daclan, as my father is scheduled to speak there every 2nd Sunday of the month. They were able to give 6 packages of the items to the place of Daclan. We, who held service at Guesset, then gave away 15 packages for each members with families. The packages were given after the service, with the hope that much more than the packages they've received they shall treasure more the knowledge of knowing Christ as their Lord and Savior. Other packages were distributed amongst those who volunteer and accompany us coming from Loakan and also gave some of families whom bible studies were rendered in the area of Beckel.

Last January 22, 2012, we too then gave bags for the kids after their Sunday School. Janice, who volunteered as teacher for the Apalan-Guesset, wasn't available at that time so Liberty, Ruth and Lovelle came with us to teach and handle the kids. Some of it were given to other places that would be blessed by having received new bags and such.

Below are pictures / photos showing the ministry of our Lord in Apalan, Guesset, Cubabeng, Daclan  and Beckel:

chebed's maybe one unforgettable event of her life.. =)

See how God has been gracious to my sister... the impact was mostly near where she was seated but she only had minor injuries, except for her eardrum which has burst due to impact and made a hole in her eardrum... but the doctor says it is highly to heal within 2-3 months.. hopefully indeed.. Thanking God greatly for His protection still....



As narrated by my sister:

Just after their outing with her batchmates in Pugad Adventure, they went off to come back to Baguio. Four of them drove off  coming back home. They were at first enjoying the ride while talking about what food would they eat when suddenly they saw a bus coming down uncontrollable and swirving along the lanes. As what they've heard from passengers of the bus, they had a loose break and the driver tried to bang or slide along a wall to try to slow down the bus but uncontrollably the bus bounced back hitting the car where my sister was seated to.... my sister was seated at the back of the driver's seat, the same side where the bus hit and probably made much damage. After the event, simply remembered she was being carried on a pick-up who came to rescue them and went off towards Baguio General Hospital. After them, other passengers of the bus also came to the Hospital. And there they were given aid. Praise and Thank God not much harm was done upon them. Perhaps the most damaging to my sister was that her left eardrum popped out or burst out due to the impact but the doctor said, it could heal for 2-3 months, hopefully.


------------ 26 passengers injured after bus and car collide in Benguet.......

THE LONELINESS OF THE CHRISTIAN

By A.W. Tozer

The loneliness of the Christian results from his walk with God in an ungodly world, a walk that must often take him away from the fellowship of good Christians as well as from that of the unregenerate world. His God-given instincts cry out for companionship with others of his kind, others who can understand his longings, his aspirations, his absorption in the love of Christ; and because within his circle of friends there are so few who share his inner experiences he is forced to walk alone. The unsatisfied longings of the prophets for human understanding caused them to cry out in their complaint, and even our Lord Himself suffered in the same way.

The man [or woman] who has passed on into the divine Presence in actual inner experience will not find many who understand him. He finds few who care to talk about that which is the supreme object of his interest, so he is often silent and preoccupied in the midst of noisy religious shoptalk. For this he earns the reputation of being dull and over-serious, so he is avoided and the gulf between him and society widens. He searches for friends upon whose garments he can detect the smell of myrrh and aloes and cassia out of the ivory palaces, and finding few or none he, like Mary of old, keeps these things in his heart.

It is this very loneliness that throws him back upon God. His inability to find human companionship drives him to seek in God what he can find nowhere else.

"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." -Revelation 12:11

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Interesting article.. I've read it and understood the context.. Probably because it is true that the Christian life is most often a lonely place... that is if we seek the companionship and understanding of our fellow brethren in the Lord. The thing is, even if we do have friends or close friends as you may say, they don't really go through the everyday experiences you yourself experience. Whether you are in a struggle or battle in the field of Christian living no one really understands the wholeness of what you feel, experience or see. They may have a glimpse of what you're going through when you share your experiences or if they themselves experience somewhat the same circumstance, but in the full context, they can not entirely see everything. Why? there are some factors. One factor is that we are all unique and have different perspectives at the same time we too respond to circumstances differently. Other factors may be of course the environment we are into or the kind of environment we've grown and adapted into. Nevertheless the main root of all reason why we often feel loneliness is simply because of our uniqueness. Understanding that God created us entirely different from others makes us a lonely person. But, if we are to understand it completely, we aren't completely alone. Because there is one Person Who knows entirely who we are and what we're going through. And He is very open when we cling and depend on Him. Of course He is our Creator and as a Christian, our Lord and Savior.

In essence, unbelievers should be feeling this loneliness too... or this probably is what they call emptiness. 'Cause in every human being, there is a whole that needs to be filled in, that only God can fill in. Most likely, there are unbelievers who will not agree on me about this matter. Most often, these are the people who only cling and depend on their knowledge and wisdom, but knowledge which is only limited to what they see, hear, smell, taste and touch.

Anyway, the topic is more centered on the Christian life being a lonely place especially still being on this wretched world. The Bible clearly indicates that this world is governed by the enemy... Satan... Remembering that time when Satan tempted the Lord Jesus Christ in the wilderness, one of his temptation included was showing Jesus all the kingdoms of this world of which Satan would give it to Jesus, if He bows down and worship satan. Which of course Jesus counter attacked with God's Word saying, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'" Now knowing that this world we live in is the territory of the enemy and that we Christians are no longer citizens here but of heaven, therefore, we truly are in a daily living of spiritual battles. And lest we are not careful and alert, the enemy can easily pin us down from the victory we are standing for.

One more thing that makes us feel alone is when God reveals things to us personally, even if we share it to others, others seem to never get it. Why? Cause whenever God reveals something to us personally, most often it is for you only and not for others. Unless the revelation was meant to be shared and shown to others.

John 21:18-22 Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!” Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.”

At some point or conclusion, our loneliness as a Christian does not indicate a negative aspect of being a Christian but instead an indication that in our Christian life, we ought to continuously call upon the Lord, seek His face and daily walk in the fellowship with Him, for there is nothing more that compares to having a right relationship with God. For we can always know we can never be alone when God is there.

Recent events....

Not much to write now so just going to post some pics or vidoes... check it out! =)


APalan-Guesset Christmas Program held last December 25, 2011. Visited by some Loakan Baptist Church members (adults & young people).



First Sunday Service of 2012 held in Apalan



Videos for the first Sunday Service of 2012 held in Apalan

Travelling towards our destination...


Arrival in Apalan


Doxology for the food..


Going back home.... with a 13-seater van made to seat 24 individuals... Please pray for a bigger vehicle or additional provider of transportation =)....