October 2008 - Philippines

On June 21, 2008, Typhoon Frank unleashed heavy rains and strong winds that flooded and devastated almost the entire Province of Iloilo, leaving 1/3 of its citizens homeless. Homes, roads, bridges, hospitals, power and water facilities were destroyed. Agricultural crops suffered great losses. Poultry and livestock were washed away.
 
Field Co-ordinator Warlito Monsalud writes, "Under the umbrella of our group, CBBMF, which is nurtured by Carey Outreach Ministries, more than 20 people died. The Bible School is affected and the seven pioneering churches we have. The Monsalud family was rescued by Jet Ski. Praise God we were safe though we lost many things we need."

 Praise God - Two Modules Taught in Spite of Typhoon

In spite of the horrible situation, by God's grace and mercy, around 60 determined students enrolled in the modular classes. Dr. Brian McNaull was scheduled to teach two subjects, but due to illness he was not able to come. Instead, Warlito was requested to teach one subject for the first week.

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It was "purely the amazing grace of God" that enabled him to teach Biblical Doctrine based on the book by Wayne Grudem

Dr. Brian McNaull Taught Old Testament Biblical Theology

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The following week, Brian finally arrived and taught Old Testament Biblical Theology. Brian writes, "This past visit (October 08) has concluded my fourth teaching visit to the Carey Reformed Baptist Theological Centre in Iloilo city, Philippines in the last 8 years. As always, a delight to renew friendship and fellowship with those who hold reformed theology 'near and dear' their hearts. For the second time I taught Old Testament Biblical Theology I (Covenant theology up to and including the Mosaic Covenant). It was reassuring to see about 15 familiar faces but in addition there must have been about 30 -35 new faces. These were pastors and elders from a variety of theological backgrounds, some with tough questions not only on the subject matter under review but also related issues on reformed theology."

"The core group of perhaps 10-15 men have developed and matured over the past 8 years to the point that their theological diagnostic skills have sharpened considerably.....reassuring for the long term ministry in the central Philippines. Although now much more independent, they still look to 'mother' Carey in Canada for some teaching support and backup."

Thanksgiving and Praise!

Warlito writes, "Words are not enough to express our thanksgiving to the Almighty God."
(1) We thank Carey Outreach, through the effort of Bob Penhearow, who raised some funds for food, clothing, and shelter for the victims, as well as funds for the rebuilding of the seven churches and renovation of the Bible School dormitory.
(2) We thank God, too, for the two thousand US dollar budget for the modular class we received.
(3) We thank the Lord for the donors who continually support the pioneering pastors. The ministry is expanding and growing.
(4) We thank the Lord for Ray Tibbs who regularly sends the "Go Teach" Sunday School Materials.
(5) We thank God for "Kuya" Leslie who made some study materials for the pastors here.
(6) We thank the Lord for all the donors through Carey Outreach and the regular prayer support of many.

Prayer Requests

(1) Pray for the ongoing pioneering churches and the newly opened work done by the students.
(2) Pray for the Bible School here and the spiritual growth of the Bible school students.
(3) Pray for the renovation and expansion of the main building in the Bible School particularly the second floor. Most of the library was destroyed as well as some equipment. Warlito is looking to expand the present facility by adding another floor.  
(4) Pray for the orphanage building and access road hopefully to start soon once the weather will permit.

Brian McNaull adds, "Pray for the ongoing reconstruction all over the Iloilo region especially in the churches and Carey seminary. Pray for these beloved  pastors that they would continue to be on fire for Christ 'rightly dividing the Word of Truth', standing firm on the Rock and looking to Him for direction and sustenance in the days ahead. Pray for the recently bereaved. Pray for wisdom for Warlito and Rossini as he gives direction to the group."

This is indeed an open door...let us stand with our Filipino brothers and sisters in whatever capacity the Lord may lead us to participate with them in this ministry.

 

Sincerely,

Janet Billson, Communications
Carey Outreach Ministries