Testimonies from the Fields

“I want to share how God has shown His love and grace to my family. I am the youngest in the family. We were well-off financially; my parents had a good family business. Then my mother found out my father had another woman. This caused them to separate and we were left in the care of relatives who mistreated us. Life was hard for my siblings and me. I went to work at an early age just to escape my relatives. We lost all communication with our mother.

I thought our situation was hopeless. But we received a letter from our mother one day. She had recovered from what had happened and is now a Christian. Her pastor helped her find us and he brought us to our mother. It was through him that I learned about and came to know Jesus as God and Savior. As an adult, I am married now with one child. A year ago we moved to Manila and started a new life. We bought a house and now have a small store in Novaliches City. We are so thankful to God for all the things He has done in our lives. Glory to His name!” – Mary Jane Ceballo

Mary Jane attends Pastor Getulio David’s church in Rosario, Philippines

" I am 28 years old. I got married in 2007 and we have one son. I am a fisherman who once lived in the coastal area—a very dangerous place when there is a typhoon. I knew about Christ, but never totally committed myself to Him. My heart became more and more hardened against Him. I strived hard to make ends meet. I recall one night in my desperation I blamed God for my misery. Then one day I went fishing with Pastor Jun (Pastor Marlon’s assistant). He hugged me and shared God’s calling with me. Then and there on the seashore, I made a full commitment to the Lord for the first time.

Last month, I dedicated my life to the Lord by following Him in water baptism. That was my turning point. After that, I have never missed a single day of worshiping the Lord. Just lately, I have been delivered from all my vices. Praise God for Pastor Jun whom He used to bring me into His fold. There are still struggles and pressures in my life, but I am assured of His bountiful, never ending love! May the Lord use me in the area of finances. I can see the church’s needs and I pray the Lord will bless my work so that I can help.” – Raja Lorijas

Raja attends Pastor Marlon Tabuzo’s church in Dimasalang, Masbate, Philippines

" My daughter Yamila had been inviting me repeatedly to church, and I received Christ in June of 2009. I remember the first time I entered the church building—having a burdensome grief inside of my soul that forbade me to come to God. My entire life was filled with bitterness and emptiness because of the death of one of my sons. I used to blame God for everything. However, when the pastor prayed with me, I felt the forgiveness of God and the redemption of my afflictions. I now praise the Lord for He has delivered me from my sins.

Since I have come to Christ, my entire life has changed. Now I enjoy a wonderful fellowship with God. My pastor and his wife have been working in my life, teaching me about God’s great mercies and that I should walk according to His word. Nowadays, I am struggling with temptation, but His grace continues to sustain me. In addition, my work schedule keeps me from becoming involved in the church’s ministries. Please pray God will act in a sovereign way. I praise God for He has drawn most of my children to Himself. Please pray for my husband’s salvation and the rest of my family. Thank you very much for your help and for supporting our pastor financially. He does a great job ministering to our lives!” – Liliana Llorvandi

Liliana attends Pastor Angel Santillan’s church in Estación el Simbolar