International Baptist Church at Dumaguete, Philippines
Three months ago, this coming Sunday, April 17, 2011, International Baptist Church at Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Philippines had its Grand-Opening Service. We are thrilled at what God has done in the short three months that our small team has been here. We will post an update to bring everyone up to date on our progress after our services this coming Sunday, but we are asking that all of our supporters please pray about the special day we will have this Sunday.
International Baptist Church got off to a great start. We have run no transportation for our services. We have simply gone soul winning around our church and in and around the city as we go about our business. God has brought visitors to our services every week. We have seen people saved and baptized every Sunday. God has brought people to our church who have been a perfect fit and have joined right in with the activity of our church. This past Saturday we had 29 people out soul winning. Our converts are beginning to have converts of their own and are getting excited about bringing others to church and seeing them baptized.
As with any church, we’ve had our services where we say, “If everyone, who comes, would come at the same time, we’d have a great crowd.” We’re praying for that to happen this Sunday, and we’re asking all of our members to bring a visitor with this Sunday. Again, we’re not providing any transportation, yet, and we’re relying on our people to step up and make this day happen. I believe they will. We’re going to have regular services and then afterward everyone is invited to stay for a feast of lechon baboy (rotisserie pork – the whole thing), rice, bread, and other treats.
It has been exciting to see God’s hand at work in our church and in the individual lives of those we’re reaching. Too many stories to tell, and too many personal stories that should remain untold. However, I’ve said it, and will keep on saying it, “God is working in Dumaguete!” I’m thrilled to pastor such wonderful people. I’m humbled and amazed that God would use me to help to impact so many lives. I’m privileged to work with such a great group of people. I’m thankful to God for the team He has assembled to get the job done.
We have a great vision and we’re seeing the pieces come together as we continue to build a strong base/foundation from which all we believe God is going to accomplish here and from here will take place. I trust that you’ll continue to pray for God to empower us as we work together for the furtherance of the Gospel. I hope that you’ll be praying as prepare for a great Sunday!
That all the world may know,
Pastor Randy DeMoville
International Baptist Church
Dumaguete, Philippines
Please be in prayer for the Mark Longworth family. Mark and his wife Priscilla, along with their son, Andy, just returned recently to the U.S. expecting to deliver twin boys later this year. God, in His perfect will, has seen fit to allow both Davy and Ricky (the twins) to go to Heaven. Our hearts break for their loss, yet this couple’s resolve is strong and their faith is unwavering. Please pray for God to give them comfort and wisdom during this time and that His will will be accomplished and His name glorified through this event.
