Zion Cornerstone Reformed Churches: Imus, Cavite • Pasig, Metro Manila
December 2016—A blessed Christmas greeting to you from the brothers and sisters in the Philippines! May this Christmas season renew your comfort and joy in the good news that our Savior Jesus Christ has come into the world to save his people from their sins. Words cannot express how thankful we are for your prayers and financial support.
CHURCH ACTIVITIES: With your financial support, the church in Pasig was able to call Rev. Paulo Vasquez as a full-time minister last September. In this short time, he has served the church in: (1) preaching the true gospel; (2) resuming regular Sunday schools and prayer meetings; (3) administering the Lord’s Supper monthly; (4) home visitation.
Pasig’s Sunday worship attendance has increased from 25-30 to 35-40. First-time visitors come on most Sundays, and an Inquirers’ Class has started. The Imus church has had an ordained minister, Rev. Lance Filio, for about two years now, and the congregation has also been enjoying the same benefits above. Their regular attendance is now over 50.
CHURCH PLANT PROSPECTS: Through word of mouth, Internet and social media, these two churches are reaching far-flung places in the Philip- pines. In recent months, two prospective church plants are developing: one in Balaoan and another in Malolos City. Discussions with a contact in Dumaguete City have started. We also maintain a close relationship with a new Reformed congregation in Cagayan De Oro City. In addition, we have good relationships with a few other Reformed churches scattered across the country. See map.
FINANCIAL NEEDS: In view of these developments in Pasig and Imus, as wells as in prospective church plants, we have these continuing needs:
1. Both churches need a more permanent place of worship, as renting has many disadvantages. Rental rates are prohibitive, so both are exploring buying small properties to start even a covered court at first. Funds for down payments would start the process.
2. Regular visitation of prospective church plants every other month involve additional transportation and lodging costs. But we cannot pass up on these opportunities to spread the Reformed faith in the country.
If the Lord puts it in your heart to support our financial needs, please contact me at dvopilgrim@gmail.com or call 925-435-9033. Or you can write at our Contact Page: http://zioncornerstonepasig.org/2013/08/17/contact-us-2/.
Again, our sincere gratitude goes out to all of you for your support and prayers,
Rev. Nollie Malabuyo, for Zion Cornerstone Reformed Churches in the Philippines
Big Springs Community Church, Montague, California
