October 2
We traveled to Caligayan Church in Tumauini, Isabela, where Brother Joden Cabanilla is serving as the local preacher. Brother Chris Reeves was still with us and preached a meaningful lesson entitled “Why Have I Been on This Earth?” reminding us of our purpose in life and our responsibility to serve and glorify God.
After the lesson, an invitation was extended, and three precious souls confessed their faith in the Lord and were baptized in a nearby river for the remission of their sins. We are truly grateful to God for this wonderful blessing and for allowing us to witness these souls obey the gospel.
In the afternoon, we visited Baliuag Church in Peñablanca, Cagayan, where Brother Alfonso Danao is serving as the local preacher. Brother Chris Reeves preached a lesson entitled “The Blessings and Benefits of Believing.” After the lesson, an invitation was extended, and eight people came forward to confess their faith. One young man was encouraged to continue attending services and learning more about the gospel because he was unable to explain his desire for baptism when asked. The other seven were baptized for the remission of their sins. We are truly thankful to God for these seven precious souls who obeyed the gospel, and we pray that they will continue to grow in faith and remain faithful to the Lord.
October 4
I was once again scheduled to teach the youth class here in Tuguegarao. We continued our study on “How Did God Organize Local Churches?”, focusing on elders and their responsibilities in the local church. I am thankful for the opportunity to help our young people better understand God's plan for the organization of His church. I am very happy to see my son being able to lead songs now. He is a shy type guy who is very silent most of the time but he is now starting to have the courage to help in leading songs and prayers.
During the worship service, Brother Rody preached a lesson from Zephaniah 2.
In the afternoon, we traveled to Palca, where Brother Robert delivered a lesson entitled “Body, Soul, and Spirit.”
Afterward, in Dagupan, I preached a lesson entitled “My Responsibility to the Local Church,” emphasizing each Christian's duty to help maintain the unity, faithfulness, and spiritual growth of the congregation.
October 7
Brother Rogelio Esperanza invited us to Santo Tomas Church in Tuao, Cagayan, for a Bible study. Upon my arrival, he asked me to share a lesson, and I was thankful for the opportunity to preach about Micaiah, the prophet who stood firm for the truth even when he stood alone against the majority. His example reminds us of the importance of remaining faithful to God's Word, even when others oppose us.
In the evening, we had our midweek service here in Tuguegarao, where Brother Rogelio was scheduled to preach. He shared a lesson about Elijah. As I listened to his message, I was reminded of the challenges he and his family are currently facing, particularly his wife's health condition. She has undergone surgery three times within just one year because of a problem in her throat. Despite these difficulties, they continue to trust in God to sustain and care for them.
I kindly ask our brethren to please remember Brother Rogelio and his family in your prayers, especially for his wife's recovery, strength, and continued healing.
October 8
We traveled to Minagbag Church in Quezon, Isabela, where Brother Jay Gumpad is serving as the local preacher. Brother Victor Ramos was asked to preach and shared a lesson entitled “Why Do Christians Stop Serving God?” His message reminded us of the importance of remaining faithful to the Lord and being aware of the things that may weaken our faith and discourage us from serving Him.
October 9
We traveled to Cabuluan, Ballesteros (two and a half hours travel), to attend the wake of Brother Delieh Miranda, who passed away at the young age of 45 after battling cancer. He was my wife's cousin and the only one among his siblings who was not a preacher. His brothers, Brother Sherwin Miranda and Brother Fidelfin (Jun) Miranda, are faithful preachers serving the Lord in their respective areas.
Together with other preachers, we held a service to comfort the bereaved family through God's Word. Brother Gerald Ganela shared a lesson about the resurrection of Lazarus in John 11, emphasizing Martha's response to Jesus concerning the resurrection. His message reminded us of the hope and assurance we have in Christ, even in the face of death.
It was a difficult time for the family, and we pray that God will comfort and strengthen them as they grieve the loss of their loved one. We are thankful for the opportunity to be with them and offer encouragement through God's Word during this time of sorrow.
October 10
We held a home Bible study at the house of Brother Jun Bassig here in Tuguegarao. We studied the lesson “Boast Not of Tomorrow,” reminding everyone of the uncertainty of life and the importance of seeking and serving God today. Some of Brother Jun's neighbors also joined us to listen to God's Word, including one of their village councilors. We are thankful for this opportunity to share the gospel with others and pray that the lesson will encourage them to learn more about God's will.
October 11
I continued teaching the youth class here in Tuguegarao, focusing on our study about elders and their responsibilities in the local church. I sincerely hope that I was able to help the young people better understand this important work according to God's Word. During the worship service, Brother Rody preached a lesson from Zephaniah 3.
In the afternoon, we traveled to Palca, where I shared the lesson Brother Chris Reeves had presented at Caligayan Church, entitled “Why Are We Here on Earth?”
Later, in Dagupan, we were blessed to have Brother Emer Yuson with us, and he shared an encouraging lesson entitled “In Times of Hardships.”
October 12
We went to Cabuluan, Ballesteros again. It is the burial of brother Delieh and we had the last service in his wake. Many preachers came and joined along because he, as a carpenter, help many local churches with the building of their chapels and he is known to be very kind and trusted brother.
October 14
During our midweek service here in Tuguegarao, we were blessed to have Brother Jimmy Duque share a lesson entitled “Serving God at a Loss for a Great Gain.” As I listened to the lesson, I was reminded that serving the Lord sometimes requires sacrifices and giving up things that we may value in this life. However, these sacrifices are nothing compared to the spiritual blessings and eternal reward that God has promised to those who remain faithful to Him. The lesson encouraged me to continue serving the Lord wholeheartedly, trusting that no sacrifice made for Him is ever in vain.
October 15
We were once again invited by Brother Jay Gumpad to visit Minagbag Church for a Bible study. This time, Brother Manny shared a lesson from Colossians 3, reminding us of the importance of setting our minds on things above and living a life that pleases God. I am thankful for these opportunities to study God's Word together with our brethren and encourage one another in our Christian walk.
In the evening, we held another Bible study at the house of Brother Flor Constantino. Some of their neighbors joined us, giving us another opportunity to share God's Word with others. We studied the lesson “Making Light of the Truth,” based on Matthew 22:5, which reminds us of the danger of neglecting God's invitation and failing to take His Word seriously.
It was also Sister Tetchie Constantino's birthday, making the gathering a special occasion for the family and those present.
October 16
We traveled to Bagunot, Baggao, where Brother Manny Pader is serving as the local preacher. During our visit, we distributed gospel tracts in the surrounding area and had the opportunity to meet some relatives of our brethren. We invited them to attend the services at the local congregation, hoping they would be willing to come and learn more about God's Word.
October 17
We are thankful to God for another opportunity to hold a Gospel Meeting here at Tuguegarao Church of Christ. We were blessed to have several brethren from Mindanao join us as guest speakers and share lessons on important Bible topics. We are grateful for their willingness to travel and help us strengthen the faith of the brethren and spread the truth of God's Word.
The following brethren shared these lessons during our Gospel Meeting:
Brother Franklin Isla (Davao) – “Why Christians Should Not Observe the Sabbath”
Brother Hope Itdang (North Cotabato) – “Will Israel Be Restored to Its Land?”
Brother Jimmy Noa Jr. (North Cotabato) – “The Doctrine of Purgatory”
Brother Rosalito Nardo (South Cotabato) – “The Nature of Christ”
Brother Connie Balbin (Davao) – “Is There Going to Be a Rapture?”
The lessons addressed various religious teachings and encouraged us to examine these subjects carefully in the light of God's Word. I am truly thankful for the opportunity to learn alongside my brethren and to be reminded of the importance of understanding and following the Scriptures.
We thank God for the visiting speakers, the brethren who helped make this meeting possible, and everyone who attended. We pray that the lessons shared will continue to strengthen our faith, deepen our understanding of the truth, and encourage us to remain faithful in our service to the Lord.
October 18
During our Bible study here in Tuguegarao, Brother Rody gave a summary of Acts 1–8, helping us review the important events and teachings recorded in these chapters. During the worship service, Brother Carlito Abella Jr. from South Cotabato preached a lesson entitled “The Second Coming of Christ” as part of our Gospel Meeting. I am thankful for the opportunity to learn from our visiting brethren and be strengthened by their teaching.
In the afternoon, Brothers Hope Itdang and Carlito Abella joined me as we traveled to Palca and Dagupan. At Palca, Brother Hope preached an encouraging lesson entitled “Finish the Race,” reminding us of the importance of remaining faithful and persevering in our Christian journey.
In Dagupan, Brother Carlito shared a lesson entitled “Ways on How to Make the Church Christ-Centered,” emphasizing the need to keep Christ at the center of the church's work and worship.
October 21
During our midweek service here in Tuguegarao, Brother Manny Pader shared a lesson entitled “Five Truths That Many Do Not Want to Think About.” His message encouraged us to reflect seriously on important spiritual truths that people sometimes choose to ignore.
October 23
We held a Bible study at the home of Sister Amy Maramag, where her whole family was present except for her husband. Sister Amy has been facing difficulties in her marriage and has asked for prayers concerning her husband, who is not a Christian and is engaging in sinful behavior that is hurting their marriage.
Despite these painful circumstances, I am encouraged by Sister Amy's faith and determination to remain faithful to God. She continues to bring her grandchildren to church, and I am thankful that all of them have now been baptized. They are also among my students in the youth class, which makes it especially encouraging to see her efforts to help them grow in the Lord.
During our study, we discussed the story of the prodigal son in a lesson entitled “In a Far Country.” I pray that God's Word will continue to strengthen Sister Amy and her family. Please remember her in your prayers, especially for wisdom, strength, and peace as she faces these challenges in her marriage. May her husband also come to know the truth and turn away from sinful ways. I am grateful for Sister Amy's example of perseverance and for the opportunity to encourage her family through God's Word.
October 25
I was able to teach the youth class again here in Tuguegarao. This time, we continued our study on how God organized the local church, focusing on deacons and their responsibilities. I am thankful for the opportunity to help our young people understand God's plan for the church and the importance of serving faithfully. During the worship service, Brother Rody preached a lesson about the prophet Haggai.
Since it was the last Sunday of the month, we continued our early schedule. Brother Robert went to Palca, while I traveled to Dagupan with Brother Jun Bassig. He shared a lesson entitled “Five Essential Things in Christian Living,” reminding us of the importance of living faithfully according to God's Word.
After the worship service, we went to visit the wake of Michael Miranda, a nine-year-old boy who was one of the students in the children's Bible class in Palca. It was heartbreaking to learn of his sudden passing on Saturday evening due to septic shock.
According to his mother, Michael developed a fever on Tuesday, but he was still playing and seemed to be doing well. By Wednesday, his fever had subsided. However, on Friday afternoon, he developed a high fever, and his family had to bring him to the hospital. He was diagnosed with septic shock that night, and by Saturday morning, several medical devices had been placed on his body as doctors worked to save his life. Despite the efforts of three doctors who attended to him, Michael passed away at around 9:00 p.m. that evening.
It is truly heartbreaking to see such a young life end so suddenly. Our hearts go out to his family, especially his parents, as they face this painful loss. We pray that God will comfort and strengthen them during this difficult time. May the love and support of the brethren, together with the comfort found in His Word, help them endure this great sorrow.
October 28
We were invited by Brother Jayson Tanguilan and Brother Alex Genilba to visit Maguilling, Piat. I was not informed beforehand that I would be the one preaching, and I only learned about the occasion when the brethren began leading the songs and I was introduced as the speaker. The gathering was a thanksgiving celebration for a family who had opened a mini grocery store and was also grateful that the husband and wife had returned home from working overseas in Taiwan and planned to stay in the Philippines for good.
Although I had not prepared a specific lesson for the occasion, I was thankful that, through continuous study of God's Word, I was able to share a lesson entitled “Giving Thanks Always and in Everything.” This experience reminded me of the importance of being ready to share God's Word whenever an opportunity arises. I thank God for helping me deliver the lesson and for allowing me to encourage the family to recognize His goodness and blessings in their lives.
At 3:00 p.m., we traveled to Angang, Tuao, for the funeral service of Michael Miranda. His father had arrived from Saudi Arabia to be with his family during this difficult time. I would also like to mention that the family has not yet obeyed the gospel, although Michael and his mother had been attending our worship services. Their relatives, the Agpuon family, have been inviting them to attend. During the service, we had spiritual songs, prayers, and a sermon. Brother Dennis Yuson shared a lesson about Hezekiah, offering the family an opportunity to hear God's Word during their time of grief. We continue to pray that God will comfort them and that they will find strength in Him.
In the evening, we attended our midweek service here in Tuguegarao, where Brother Jayson Tanguilan preached a lesson entitled “Love Not the World.” I am grateful to God for another day filled with opportunities to preach, encourage others, and serve alongside my brethren.
October 29
We traveled to Nangalisan, Solana, where Brothers Jay Gumpad, James Attaban, and Rogelio Esperanza are serving as preachers. We distributed Bible tracts throughout the village as part of our effort to spread God's Word and reach more people with the gospel.
I arrived a little later than the others because I was only asked around 7:00 a.m. to print the tracts needed for the distribution. Despite the short notice, I was thankful that I could help prepare the materials and participate in this work. I pray that the tracts we distributed will reach receptive hearts and encourage more people to learn about God's truth.
October 30
We traveled to Villa Corazon Church in Mallig, Isabela, where Brother July Aguinaldo is serving as the local preacher. We were thankful to join their Gospel Meeting, which was also the first one held in their new chapel. Although the building is not yet finished, it is already a great improvement from their former meeting place, where rainwater would often enter the building. We are grateful to God for allowing the brethren to have a more suitable place to worship.
There were two speakers during the meeting. Brother Robert Pader shared a lesson entitled “Unless the Lord Builds the House,” followed by Brother Rody Gumpad, who preached “God Has Spoken.” After the lessons, an invitation was extended, and one precious soul responded and obeyed the gospel. We rejoice and thank God for this blessing and pray that this new Christian will continue to grow in faith.
At around 12:30 p.m., we traveled to Angang, Tuao, for another funeral service at the wake of Michael Miranda. The journey took us approximately two hours. Upon arriving, we asked Brother Jun Bassig to share the message, and he preached from Hebrews 9:27, reminding those present about the certainty of death and the importance of preparing for eternity.
After the service, we immediately traveled back to Tuguegarao because we still had a scheduled home Bible study at the house of Sister Alona Luyun. We joined the family in thanking God for a wonderful blessing because her daughter, Kyla, had passed the examination and qualified as a medical doctor. We were happy to share in their joy and congratulate the family on this achievement. Kyla is not yet a Christian, and we continue to pray that she will also come to know the truth and make the decision to obey the gospel.
During our study, we discussed “The Value of the Soul,” reminding everyone that the soul is more precious than anything this world can offer. It was a meaningful way to end a very busy day. I am truly thankful to God for the strength He provided and for the many opportunities to preach, comfort the grieving, encourage our brethren, and share His Word with others.
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