EFC Pacita: A Journey of Faith and Commitment
Pacita, a barangay in the municipality of Lala, Lanao del Norte, is a community known for its agricultural and fishery-based economy. With a population of 1,622 people, it thrives on producing corn, rice, coconut, and kalamansi, while also generating fishery products from marine fishing and fishpond operations. One of its notable cultural aspects is its specialized crab dishes, which highlight the local craftsmanship in cooking.
The Birth of EFC Pacita
Evangel Family Church (EFC) Pacita began in 1999, under the leadership of Pastor Glen Basilad and his wife, Pastor Sharah. During their ministry, they encountered a couple—Reynaldo Cornel and his wife, Roselyn—who would play a pivotal role in the church’s growth. Reynaldo, a fishpond operator, and Roselyn, along with their children Claire and John Paul, joined Pastor Glen’s ministry, dedicating their lives to serving the Lord Jesus. As Reynaldo and Roselyn deepened their commitment to God, they grew in their understanding of what it truly meant to follow Christ, and their hearts were aligned with the call of ministry.
A New Chapter in Ministry
In 2007, God’s divine intervention led to the installation of Rev. Reynaldo Cornel and Pastor Roselyn as the new pastoral leaders of EFC Pacita. With a strong sense of calling and a passion for shepherding the souls entrusted to them, they embraced their new responsibilities with fervor. Rev. Reynaldo left his work as a fishpond operator to devote his time and energy to the ministry, training their children to develop a heart for God’s work and to always follow His guidance.
The Cornels’ leadership has been marked by a deep commitment to serving the Lord, despite facing many challenges along the way. With their faith firmly anchored in God, they have continued to persevere, ensuring that their ministry thrives in the face of adversity.
Expansion and Growth
Under Rev. Reynaldo and Pastor Roselyn’s leadership, EFC Pacita has experienced significant growth. The church has established 10 outstations, with six located in the municipality of Lala and the remaining four in Luga-it, Misamis Oriental. Through God’s guidance, they were able to reach Pastor Roselyn’s family in Luga-it, expanding their ministry there. The church’s growth was further marked by the blessing of a dedicated building for worship in Luga-it, providing a permanent place for the community to gather and worship the Lord.
Despite the challenges, the Cornel family’s dedication to the ministry has only grown stronger. Their passion for serving God and advancing His kingdom continues to fuel their work in Pacita and beyond. With each passing season, Rev. Reynaldo, Pastor Roselyn, and their children remain focused on fulfilling the call God has placed on their lives, knowing that their reason for living and serving is found in the living God.
A Legacy of Faith
EFC Pacita stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith and commitment. Through the leadership of Rev. Reynaldo and Pastor Roselyn, and the support of their family, the church has not only established a thriving congregation but also expanded its influence through outstations. The journey of EFC Pacita reflects the strength and perseverance that comes from following God’s lead, and the Cornel family’s unwavering dedication continues to inspire others in their community and beyond.
As EFC Pacita moves forward, its members remain steadfast in their mission to serve God, trusting that in every season of life, the Living God will always be their reason to live and serve.
