Testimonies from the Fields

Rizza
“ My name is Rizza. I grew up in a Christian family. At an early age I was aware of who God is as Creator and that He is the only one to be worshipped and adored. I always went to worship services and even attended prayer meetings and Bible studies during the week. As a child, I enjoyed attending Sunday school as I learned more about Jesus and His miracles.

When I turned seven, I understood what salvation was really all about. My parents showed me how God could use me in the music ministry, and so at the age of 11, I was baptized and became the youngest member of the worship team. I couldn’t help but feel like an outcast because of my age. But thank God; it is only because of Him that I continued. I offered my talent to Him and He enriched me with immeasurable blessings in return. My whole family is totally dependent on God. We entrust everything to Him. We have been through a financial crisis, but by God’s grace I was still able to graduate with a bachelor’s degree.

Now I am 20 years old and am still a part of the music ministry. God has also given me the courage and strength to lead my fellow youth. It’s not easy, but through continuous discipleship training, I am becoming more equipped to do the work that God has placed on my heart. I really praise the Lord for what He has done in my life.”
- Rizza is a member of Pastor Rodolfo Milanay's Church, Philippines

Rose
Rose is a new member in our fellowship. She became a believer in early January and is a regular attendee. She shared with us that she was a very self-centered person who was easily hurt by others, then always wanted to get even. However, when she became born again, Rose said that the Lord changed her perspective of life. She knows that the Lord changed her attitude for the better. Now she is gaining new friends and loves her enemies. Rose is in her early 50’s and is married with two children. We are conducting a Bible study in their home and many of Rose’s friends attend. It is sad that only Rose and her youngest child join us for the study. Her husband is busy with work, and so is her other child. Please pray that the Lord will work in their hearts and that they will be saved just like Rose. Pray that we can minister to them individually.
- Pastor Gerald Torres, Philippines

Chona Rodriguez
" When I was a young girl, I attended church. I heard a lot of messages from the pastors and even memorized Bible verses. I learned a lot of Christian songs, but was not sincerely following the Lord. I left home after high school to find work because my parents could not afford college. I forgot about church life. I was trying to change the course of my life by getting a different job, but I couldn’t because of my lack of education. I was deeply hurt. I resigned from my work and spent some time at my sister’s house in Cavite. My sister hosts a Bible study there and this is where I was introduced to Pastor Macarilay.

Now I know that God allowed things to happen for a purpose—always for His glory and honor. I committed my life to the Lord and sincerely received Jesus as Lord and Savior. I followed Him in water baptism about one month later. Presently, I am serving the Lord at Mustard Seed Christian Church under Pastor Macarilay. The Lord also provided me a job where my boss gives me every Sunday off so that I can attend church. Indeed, I thank the Lord for this blessing. I pray that the Lord will use me in His kingdom as I grow spiritually.” –Chona Rodriguez (30) is a member of Pastor Honesto Macarilay’s church plant, Philippines