By: Julie Rose Cose
Pas. Jetro Novero praying for EFC Pampanga Pastors Jennyboy & Julie Rose Cose with their daughters
It was a significant and memorable day—February 15, 2024—when we, together with our two daughters, set foot in the city of San Fernando, Pampanga, specifically in Barangay San Isidro. With hearts full of hope and excitement, we came to this new land, believing that God had called us here for a purpose greater than ourselves.
As we began our ministry, we committed ourselves to reaching out to the people in the community. During the first four months, we focused on connecting with both children and adults. We visited homes, built relationships, and shared the love of Christ with those around us. One of our early initiatives was starting an evening worship service in an open area. It was a humble beginning, but we saw God working through every effort. People came with curiosity, some with hunger for the Word, and others just looking for hope.
After three months, however, we faced our first major challenge. Our landlord informed us of a rental increase, which led us to begin searching for another place to live and continue the ministry. By the fourth month, God opened a way for us to move to a different area—Barangay Malpitic, San Fernando City. Though it was another adjustment, we saw it as part of God’s plan.
In our new location, we started holding worship services in our home, transforming it into a house church where believers could gather, worship, and grow together in faith. At the same time, we continued the evening worship service back in Brgy. San Isidro. We were committed to keeping the connection alive with the people we had already reached out to.
At first, both children and adults were receptive to the ministry. We saw smiles, heard testimonies, and experienced genuine interest in the Gospel. However, over time, the enthusiasm of some began to fade. This was disheartening, but we reminded ourselves that ministry is a journey filled with both joys and trials.
Despite the setbacks, we did not lose heart. We knew that seeds had been planted, and we trusted God for the growth. We continued to reach out, especially to our neighbors in Malpitic, and although only the children responded in the beginning, we remained faithful. We organized Bible studies, children’s activities, and community visits—anything that would show the love of Christ in practical ways.
As time went on, God began to move in unexpected ways. Through consistent evangelism and prayer, we began to meet individuals whose hearts were open to the Gospel. These divine appointments turned into friendships and later into discipleship. Souls began to accept Jesus Christ into their lives, and the Lord started building His church right before our eyes.
By the grace and mercy of God, these new believers remained faithful, growing not just in number but in spiritual maturity. This growth led us to a beautiful milestone—our first-year church anniversary.
On July 20, 2025, we joyfully celebrated our 1st Church Anniversary and Dedication Service of Evangel Family Church of San Fernando, Pampanga. The celebration was made even more meaningful by the presence of Ptra. Ann and Pastor Jetro, who served as our guest speakers. It was a day of thanksgiving, worship, testimonies, and renewed commitment. We looked back at the challenges and victories, the tears and the breakthroughs, and saw God’s hand in all of it.
As we move forward, we are filled with great anticipation for what God will continue to do in San Fernando City. We are believing for more open hearts, deeper discipleship, and a growing spiritual family. The mission continues, and with God on our side, we know greater things are yet to come.
May all glory and honor be unto our Lord Jesus Christ, who makes all things possible.
