Growing in the Spirit!

CC Lalawigan's sanctuary packed out for a Wednesday service.

As rebuilding work continues all throughout Samar, it is an encouraging blessing to see the body of Christ grow in numbers and in faith.  In His mercy, God has used this terrible storm to draw many to Himself, and to strengthen the churches of Samar.  In this update we see several examples of God's grace as His people assemble.  The sanctuary at CC Lalawigan where the roof has been completely rebuilt was full to overflowing for a Wednesday evening service. 

Another sign of spiritual growth is the new church plant in San Julian.

Mark Pentor is ordained for the work at San Julian where he will serve as pastor for the new church plant there.

Pastors Gerry and Mark close the deal for land for CC San Julian

Calvary Chapel San Julian was born out of the relief effort as Pastor Gerry and the team received a request to come do a Bible Study there.  The one-time Bible study gave birth to a weekly Bible study which gave birth to a brand new church plant there.  Now there is land for the new church as well as a brand new pastor.  Keep the new work in San Julian and Pastor Mark in prayer!

The churches continue to grow throughout the region as more and more people see the love of Christ manifested in the teams serving there. Teams continue to minister through physical service as well as bringing the word of God. 

Pastor Kyle Curry from Reliance Church teaches at Lalawigan.

The Lalawigan youth digging into the Word.

There is still much work to be done to rebuild homes, churches and public facilities.  Teams continue to arrive for the ongoing recovery work, including not just stateside teams, but even teams from our missionary churches around the world. 

Pastor Pete and his team from CC Macau, China

Please continue to pray for more teams and more resources for the people of Samar.  Now is the time, months after the typhoon that people begin to lose their focus on the recovery efforts.  Lift up the local pastors and churches that they will embrace this opportunity to minister the love of Christ and the mercy and grace of God.  And prayerfully consider joining or leading a team of your own!