114 Precious Souls Baptized in Northeastern Mindanao Mission
By Pastor Manuel Sumatra (adopted minister)
Our Almighty God intervened during our evangelistic effort held in San Jose, Dinagat, the place of Ruben Ecleo, the Founder of PBMA (Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association) Religion. Ruben Ecleo, Jr. is considered by his followers to be a reincarnation of Jesus Christ. Ecleo has an estimated one million members in the central and southern Philippines. But now, many of them have accepted our beliefs. One hundred fourteen (114) precious souls were baptized on April 28, 2012 in Dinagat.
Despite the danger in this critical area during our seminar since the PBMA members had used their powers to stop our effort, God, as in the time of Elijah, showed His power and stopped the Power of Darkness. I believe that the SDAs in the entire Mindanao, particularly in Caraga region, prayed everyday and every night and this is why many accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. To God be the glory!
Nine adopted ministers: Charlito Ranes, Marcial Robles, Peter Ganzo, Hanzel Agrade, Julie Mutia, Ram De asis, Eleizer Calinga, Samuel Bacamante and 10 hired laymen from different missions did the groundwork and assisted during the evangelistic effort.
As Pastor Serrano, our evangelistic speaker was emphasizing the second coming of Christ, the people said, “These people are really bringing the message of hope in this area. They are the true light bearers. They are telling us about the true God.”
Last Sabbath, even though we do not have a church building yet, we gathered together to worship for the first time. We are soliciting funds for a church building for them to worship in. A church building can be built for P105,000 ($2,500). May the Holy Spirit touch you to give to this wonderful project.
Thanks to all our sponsors for your support and prayers for our work here. May God continue to bless you all is my prayer.