What happens when you see everything in the light of the Gospel?
Quick answer: you are made more aware of the darkness in this world. As believers, we are called to bring the light to those who need it. And for the faithful members of First Filipino Baptist Church, we have chosen to focus our attention on the seeking the lost in Bataan, Philippines.
There are hundreds of thousands of souls who need to hear about the love of God in Bataan and the surrounding area. Over the last two years, FFBC has been working to reach these people and the work continues to grow. The fellowship in the city of Balanga meets at the local elementary school and has grown to an average weekly attendance of 140.
The demand for a true Christ preaching church is so great in the province, that FFBC outreach is considered to be the fastest growing church in the region and has even started daughter churches: Purity Baptist Church in Orani, FFBC outreach in Abucay and another one in Dinalupihan.
People are being led to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Dozen have been baptized and the church continues to minister to the people in the region.
The Filipino people are enthusiastic and ready to take the next steps in their faith journeys, But there are many challenges in the way.
The challenges
The ministries are effective at reaching people and we are doing the best that we can do to bring our members, visitors and new christians (who cannot afford to pay for transportation) to every service. The church has access to high occupancy vehicles, but they are often in need of maintenance and several trips are required every service.
Lack of experienced workers. Because the work is new, there is a lack of experienced Christian workers to help with the ministries of the church. The workers we do have are spread thin due to the growing number of attendees.
Persecution. Although the Filipino people are quite familiar with the God of the Bible, the country remains a predominantly Catholic region. Sometimes attendees can be persecuted and harassed for their beliefs — often by their own families. This can cause conflict among family members who largely remain dependent on each other for financial stability.
How you can help
We believe in the power of prayer. We only ask that you and your church commit to praying fervently and often about the needs of the people in Bataan and those that minister to them. Please consider becoming our partner in prayer. Below, you will see a number of people who are committed to doing the work that need your prayer..
ABNER ABANES
Pray for good health and wisdom. There are a number of challenges ahead in the coming new year.
LOLITA ABANES
As a pastor’s wife, she continues to be a facilitator of the people. Pray that God continues to empower and encourage her.
ABEGAIL ABANES
In addition to her work in the church, Abegail is also a full-time student. Pray for guidance and encouragement.
HANNAH ABANES
Also full-time student and worker in the church, pray that God will continue to use her and expand her influence in the youth ministries
Please keep them in your prayers and lift them up to God to continue to strengthen their resolve, maintain their physical health and provide for their basic needs.
These faithful few are giving everything they have to lead people to the Lord. And though there are plenty of challenges ahead, by the grace of God we claim the strength to meet them head on.