Despite Disaster, Philippine Churches Make Disciples
Only two months into major recovery efforts from the devastation of Typhoon Haiyan—an endeavor that will occupy the Church of God in the Philippines for several years—the church is demonstrating that its tasks of evangelism and disciple-making remain foremost in its priorities.
Last week more than 40 students completed the Christian Life Discipleship Program (CLDP) and graduated in ceremonies in the hardest-hit area of the islands. Students from throughout the Visayas area, where Lito Anabo is overseer, received appropriate recognition for their accomplishments.
CLDP is a nationwide emphasis on growing in the Christian life. It is a Bible and textbook-based program developed by Filipino Christian education leader Ron Carmiling. Carmiling is an associate of Anthony Velasco, pastor and national overseer of the island nation. The discipleship program embraces a three-year study approach.
Meanwhile, recovery efforts continue. Because of the total devastation of farms and crops, food remains the most pressing need. Churches throughout the Philippines are sending rice, beans, fresh water, and other staples to the stricken areas, augmented by funds from the Church of God outside the Philippines. Emergency, sometimes temporary, repairs have been made on some church structures.
U.S. churches that wish to help in significant ways may adopt a local church that needs repair or rebuilding. For more information, email [email protected].
(Source: Church of God world Missions)
