JECPP Northern Mindanao Year-end Gathering 2019
By Francis Jun Macadam
It is the end of yet another fruitful year and Jireh Evangel Church Planting of the Philippines (JECPP) Northern Mindanao Pastors, together with their families and volunteer church planters, came together for the annual year-end gathering.
Taking place, December 27, 2019, at SENTRO 1850 Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City with 89 attendees from different churches; in Malaybalay, Mambayaan, Manticao, Lala, and Cagayan de Oro City.
This is one of the best times of the year that we use to remind ourselves of the many reasons to be grateful to God. It was an opportunity to celebrate another productive year in the ministry, and to spend quality time together remembering what it is to be a part of a warm family and wonderful ministry—the harvest field.
An uplifting time of prayer and worship kicked off the event followed by a welcoming address by Pastor Roberto Padinit; “We strive to put Christ at the heart of everything we do and we sincerely thank all our Pastors and volunteer Church Planters for your love, support and unwavering commitment to do God’s works,” he said upon welcoming everyone.
Hearing an inspiring message from the Word of God was something everyone did not miss. Rev. Andrew Kwong, the Senior Pastor of EFC CDO, had shared ‘Make Room’ for Jesus as the priority of our lives.
Our Lord Jesus entered into this world through the virgin birth, and was placed in a manger because “There was no room for them in the inn.” Moreover, we must make room for Jesus.
As we plant new churches, we believe in producing fruits and growth in discipleship. Our prayer is to reach the vast majority of people inside and outside our churches, to help them grow in faith and transform them into fruitful disciples.” Of what Pastor Andrew had shared, it gave everyone conviction to prioritize God and make more room for Him as we enter another year.
There were many exciting things prepared for all who came in the year-end gathering. Aside from edifying fellowship and spiritually encouraging messages, there were fun-filled games such as; The ‘bring-me’ game, ‘guessing the Bible character’, and ‘hep-hep-hooray’ played for everyone’s glee.
Moreover, Pastor Rowena and Pastor Andrew distributed gifts, beautifully packed in boxes, as tokens of appreciation to everyone for their dedication and heart for church-planting. Afterwards, everyone had their fill as they shared a sumptuous meal.
The year-end gathering rounded off with a bowling match that everyone fully enjoyed. Our appreciation and deep gratitude to Pastor Andrew Kwong and Pastor Rowena Kwong for their guidance and leadership in the ministry; and for always making sure that everyone will be well taken care of.
As the New Year dawned, the church can no longer afford to be asleep in the light. We must rise and face this New Year with full expectancy that God is going to do greater things. It is our hope and prayer that we will focus upon Christ; not only in this year’s celebration but also in the years to come. 1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain.”
