By: Shekinah L. Margate
On November 1, 2024, Evangel Family Church Marahan and the Tri
bal Ministry convened in exuberant celebration, their hearts overflowing with joy and profound gratitude as they commemorated a monumental milestone: 25 years of God’s unerring faithfulness and a season of heartfelt Thanksgiving. This occasion was not merely a reflection on time past, but an emphatic proclamation of what God has accomplished, and a stirring anticipation of the remarkable future He is unfolding before them.
The celebration stood as a living testament to the omnipotent hand of God, which has guided and sustained His people through every adversity, triumph, and transformation. What began in the modest precincts of Marahan, Marilog District, Davao City, has burgeoned into a dynamic ministry that has profoundly impacted lives beyond its origins. Tribal workers, church members, and allies from neighboring communities gathered to bear witness to God’s grace, attesting to His steadfast presence in every season of their journey.
The program commenced with a stirring and evocative performance by the tribal members, who, through traditional dance and music, offered their worship to the Lord. The rhythmic cadence reverberated through the atmosphere, as four vibrant flags—each inscribed with words in distinct tribal dialects—were raised high to declare the supreme sovereignty of God over all creation. This was more than a mere cultural expression; it was an indomitable affirmation of the unity and strength found in the body of Christ, transcending differences to proclaim a shared allegiance to the Almighty.
Pastor Fuentes Tumindog led the congregation in a fervent prayer, and Pastor Patricio Margate extended a warm and gracious welcome, infusing the assembly with words of inspiration and encouragement, reminding them of the indomitable power of unity in Christ.
Then, Pastora Mivelyn Margate took the stage, eloquently recounting the formidable journey of establishing this ministry. With poignant clarity, she reflected not only on the challenges that had been surmounted, but on the miraculous providence of God that had illuminated every step. Her words exuded faith and gratitude, reminding everyone that the foundation of this ministry was constructed not on human ingenuity, but on the unwavering faithfulness of God. The collective sense of awe that pervaded the congregation was palpable, as hearts were stirred to believe that the greatest chapters of their journey have yet to be written.
The celebration reached its zenith as Brother Roy Villarino performed a heartfelt anthem of praise, beckoning the congregation to reflect on the manifold blessings God has bestowed upon them and the unquantifiable future that awaits. The energy in the room was nothing short of electric, as the assembly was stirred to a fervor of expectation—knowing that the God who has faithfully carried them this far will continue to lead them to even greater heights.
The pinnacle of the morning arrived with the introduction of Rev. Peter Wee as the keynote speaker. Before delivering his message, Rev.Peter Wee took a moment to honor Pastors Patricio and Mivelyn with a plaque that acknowledged their steadfast commitment and exemplary leadership over the years. In his sermon, titled “They Build and Prospered,” Rev.Peter Wee delivered a compelling call to redefine prosperity. He emphasized that true prosperity is not measured by material wealth but by the construction of God’s eternal kingdom—through the restoration of lives, families, and communities. He exhorted the congregation to embrace their divine mandate to be co-laborers with Christ in the grand work of kingdom-building, reminding them that their labor is not in vain. His impassioned words ignited a collective sense of purpose, stirring everyone to take up the mantle of restoration and transformation that God has entrusted to them.
In response, Pastors Patricio and Mivelyn, along with the entire Evangel Family Church Marahan and Tribal Ministry, expressed their profound gratitude to Rev. Peter Wee for his incisive and transformative message. They also honored JECPP, Rev. Peter and Rev. Christine Wee, and Evangel Family Church Davao with plaques of appreciation, acknowledging their invaluable partnership in sustaining and expanding the ministry’s impact. Their unwavering support has been a pivotal force in manifesting the vision of this 25-year journey.
As the program drew to a close, Pastor Maximo Lasquite led the congregation in a prayer of thanksgiving, offering gratitude to God for the abundant provision and steadfast guidance He has shown. The community then shared in a joyous feast—a tangible celebration of the abundance of God’s provision and a prophetic sign of the even greater things He has prepared.
Reflecting on 25 years of ministry, it is unequivocally clear that none of this would have been possible apart from the miraculous intervention of God. Evangel Family Church Marahan and the Tribal Ministry stand as living monuments to God’s boundless faithfulness and his transformative power. As the congregation lifted their voices in adoration, they celebrated not only the monumental achievements of the past, but also the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. With God’s work far from complete, they stand poised to continue their journey, knowing that the future is as glorious and transformative as the promises of the One who called them to build His kingdom. The path ahead is one of unshakable faith, indomitable resolve, and the unwavering conviction that He who began this good work will bring it to fruition for His glory.
