The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church, Leganes, Iloilo

Chapter 57

I would like to share the story of the Baptist Men of Lifegate Church. I have been a member of the church for many years, when we decided to built our home in Buntatala, Leganes. We joined Lifegate Church, which before was known as Leganes Baptist Church. The Kinder School was to be started as another church ministry. It must be registered and must have a legal personality. The church was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commmission (SEC) and Department of Education & Culture (Dept. Ed), both government agencies.

Lifegate Church has a unique ministry. Rev. Albert Valdez is the pastor. Assisting him was his wife, Pastor Joy Lopez Valdez, in charged of the music and education ministry of the church.

Lifegate Church, is under the Chairmanship of Mrs. Jeanette Deocampo Artajo, President. The church underwent a major renovation with the supervision of Engr. Carl Jacar, member of the church and the Baptist Men. There were different organizations in the said church, composed of the Senior Citizens, Baptist Men, Baptist Women, Young Couples, Young Professionals, Young People and the children. Each of the said organization has its officers and functions.

We have a Church Choir that renders songs of encouragementvery Sunday Worship Service. We have different groups that were assigned to render Special Music and Offeratory Music. We have a Violinists and several guitarists that assist Pastor Joy Lopez Valdez in the Music Ministry. We often have a lovely and inspiring Worship Service.

Every Sunday, there were families assigned as Altar decorators. There were also persons who were assigned to gather the offerings. We have often 3 offerings every Sunday. Then, after the Benediction by the Pastor, the Church Chairperson, Mrs. Jeannete Artajo stood on the pulpit to announce some developments and upcoming activities of the church. A visitor who attended the Worship Service for the first time were called and introduced to the congregation.

We have Sunday School after the service. But before that, we take a break for our snacks, together with Baptist Women and the Youths, who loves snacks after worship . The Baptist Men loves to drink Brewed Coffee or Three-in-One coffee. Then we gather for our Sunday School. I would like to share only what we are doing during the Baptist Men’s Sunday School.

It was quite unique. Some churches in the Province of Iloilo, Iloilo City and Inner Iloilo area have only 5 Baptist Men joining Sunday School. In other churches, only about 10 attended Sunday School. More Baptist Women attends Sunday School on Sundays. At Lifegate Church, we have more than 30 Baptist Men members, 20-25, attended regularly Sunday School.

Our Sunday School starts often at 10:45 A.M and ends at 12:00 noon. It was always an inspiring and lively Sunday School. Every body were called to participate in the disucssions and where challenged to asked questions. Then some others were asked to answer the questions before them. We gave credit to our Sunday School teacher, Engr. Rollin Deocampo for his faithfulness, dedication, commitment in being our teacher and mentor in Sunday School.

Every one of us, are anticipating coming of next Sunday, and participating in Sunday School, for our spiritual and educational growth. It is also in Sunday School that we learn to speak and to discuss important issues. We were blessed and inspired with the topics that we’re studying every Sunday.

Our Baptist Men organization were led by our officers, Ramonito Buenafe, President; Vicente Quilino, Vice President; Alex Artajo, Secretary, Engr. Rollin Deocampo, Treasurer. Every First Sunday of the month, Rev. Alberto Valdez, led the Sunday School together with the different Church organizations. There we discussed quite different and important issue. Rev.Valdez encourages every one to participate in the discussions. If no one asks questions, Rev. Valdez asked the need questions to ask.

We also have our Cell Groups meetings, where sharing of testimonies and discussions were made. There were 4 Cell Groups at Lifegate Church. Cell Group 1 held their fellowship every Saturday. Cell Group 2 have their meetings every 3rd Saturdays of the month. Cell Group No. 3, meets every 3rd Sunday of the month. And Cell Group No. 4 meet’s every 4th Saturday of the month. Often, the Cell Groups have lunch among themselves during their meetings.

Every Friday at 6:00 PM in the evening, we have our Baptist Men’s Fellowship. It is a day that each of us are looking forward with eager anticipation. We often arrived at the house of the Fellowship host at 5:45 PM. We were provided with coffee and bread or native delicacies while having conversation. Often, we start our meeting at 6:00 PM sharp.

I joined the Baptist Men Fellowsip because I want to learn the dynamics of the groups learning processes. The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church - Leganes, has a unique and wonderful story of faith and service to God. I don’t know if there are pastors like me, who after they retire, were joining the fellowship of Baptist Men in their churches. Some Pastors only stay at home and do their household chores. It’s difficult to have continued fellowship with other pastors after retirement. It will be best for Pastor, after retirement to join the Baptist Men fellowship, for strength and nourishment of the spiritual and educational lives.

Our Baptist Mens fellowhip every Friday evening is a wonderful fellowship ever. At the start of every week, we are looking forward to the coming of Friday evenings. We start the fellowship with snacks, courtesy of the host’s family. The leader for the day fellowship was assigned ahead of time, so that all will be ready before the start of the meeting. The Speaker, for the fellowship is always the host Baptist Man, unless he asked somebody to be the speaker in his behalf. He also voluntarily prepare dinner for us, after the fellowship.

I observed that the fellowship Speaker, prepares his message in advance. He used most of the days in the week to study, prepare and construct his message. Hosting the Baptist Men’s fellowship is a great way to learn. The host was forced to study, do research, to share God’s message for us. It will helped him to nourished the Word of God for his growth.

We usually brought with us the Hiligaynon Hymnal every fellowship. We sang a hymn or two. It is followed by a prayer, led by an assigned leader. Then we share our testimonies – sharing why we are thankful to God for the week. What they Lord has provided us and our family during the week. We thank God for our lives, our jobs, our health. Even our songs. We attentively listen to the person who is sharing his testimony of God’s goodness. It’s a wonderful opportunity for each of us, because it gives us strength and courage. After the sharing, the fellowship Speaker share God’s message for us. Most often, about 15 minutes of reflections on God”s words.

We stood together and prepare to pray. We were remined of what and who to pray. We were asked to pray for each assigned family. We pray for our sick brothers and sisters. We prayed for the children that have some sickness. We prayed for our children. Each were given the tasked to pray for our fellow sick brothers and sisters. We pray for the olds and the aged. We went on the list of sick brothers and sisters. We look for the sick Those who were not able to attend worship.

Then, we joined hands. We sang prayer songs, like “ I Cast All My Cares Upon You” or “I Know the Lord Will Answer All My Prayers”. Then, we silently prayed for those we were assigned to pray. We prayed for the person and the family on our left. Somebody was assigned to close our fellowship, and prayed for all of us. We clasped each others hand. We shaked hands of each other.

Then, we went on our Friday Fellowship Dinner. We have continued conversations. And fellowship drinks, cokes, some home made drinks, and mints.

The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church is reaching out. We have started a fellowship with the Baptist Men of Nabitasan Baptist Church. A joint fellowship is held some Thursday afternoon with Nabitasan Baptist Men. And Nabitasan joins Lifegate Church every Friday at 6:00 PM. We join together in fellowship, with songs, Bible Study, sharing, testimonies, prayer and fellowship dinner.

We reached out further. The President of Lifegate Church Baptist Men, Mr. Arnel Sipe was elected President of the Inner Iloilo Circuit of Baptist Men Fellowship comprising churches in Iloilo City, Ito Baptist Church and Ito Grace Baptist Church in Cabatuan; Consolacion Baptist Church in San Miguel; Cadagmayan Baptist Church and Sta. Barbara Baptist Church in Sta. Barbara; Amparo Baptist Church, Pagsanga-an Baptist Church and Pavia Baptist Church in Pavia;

Lifegate Church, Nabitasan Baptist Church and Cari-Mayor Baptist Church in Leganes and Zarraga Evangelical Church and Green Vale Baptist Church in Zarraga. A general assembly of the said organization is held, quarterly every year. Here Mr. Arnel Sipe, with the circuit officers, looks for ways to strengthen the Baptist Men of Inner Circuit Conference.

And most recently, Engr. Rollin Deocampo, a Deacon and Treasurer of Lifegate Church-Leganes, and former Vice President of the Iloilo Baptist Men Organization (IBMO), was elected President of the said organization. Lifegate Church, with Engr. Rollin Deocamp, is now reaching out to the whole of Iloilo Baptist Men for joint efforts for strength and service in the Lord’s works.

\

The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church, Leganes, Iloilo

                                                   Chapter 57

I would like to share the story of the Baptist Men of Lifegate Church. I have been a member of the church for many years, when we decided to built our home in Buntatala, Leganes. We joined Lifegate Church, which before was known as Leganes Baptist Church. The Kinder School was to be started as another church ministry. It must be be registered and must have a a legal personality. The church was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commmission (SEC) and Department of Education & Culture (Dept. Ed), both government agencies.

Lifegate Church has a unique ministry. Rev. Albert Valdez is the pastor. Assisting him was his wife, Pastor Joy Lopez Valdez, in charged of the music and education ministry of the church.

Lifegate Church, is under the Chairmanship of Mrs. Jeanette Deocampo Artajo, President. The church underwent a major renovation with the supervision of Engr. Carl Jacar, member of the church and the Baptist Men. There were different organizations in the said church, composed of the Senior Citizens, Baptist Men, Baptist Women, Young Couples, Young Professionals, Young People and the children. Each of the said organization has its officers and functions.

We have a Church Choir that renders songs of encouragementvery Sunday Worship Service. We have different groups that were assigned to render Special Music and Offeratory Music. We have a Violinists and several guitarists that assist Pastor Joy Lopez Valdez in the Music Ministry. We often have a lovely and inspiring Worship Service.

Every Sunday, there were families assigned as Altar decorators. There were also persons who were assigned to gather the offerings. We have often 3 offerings every Sunday. Then, after the Benediction by the Pastor, the Church Chairperson, Mrs. Jeannete Artajo stood on the pulpit to announce some developments and upcoming activities of the church. A visitor who attended the Worship Service for the first time were called and introduced to the congregation.

We have Sunday School after the service. But before that, we take a break for our snacks, together with Baptist Women and the Youths, who loves snacks after worship . The Baptist Men loves to drink Brewed Coffee or Three-in-One coffee. Then we gather for our Sunday School. I would like to share only what we are doing during the Baptist Men’s Sunday School.

It was quite unique. Some churches in the Province of Iloilo, Iloilo City and Inner Iloilo area have only 5 Baptist Men joining Sunday School. In other churches, only about 10 attended Sunday School. More Baptist Women attends Sunday School on Sundays. At Lifegate Church, we have more than 30 Baptist Men members, 20-25, attended regularly Sunday School.

Our Sunday School starts often at 10:45 A.M and ends at 12:00 noon. It was always an inspiring and lively Sunday School. Every body were called to participate in the disucssions and where challenged to asked questions. Then some others were asked to answer the questions before them. We gave credit to our Sunday School teacher, Engr. Rollin Deocampo for his faithfulness, dedication, commitment in being our teacher and mentor in Sunday School.

Every one of us, are anticipating coming of next Sunday, and participating in Sunday School, for our spiritual and educational growth. It is also in Sunday School that we learn to speak and to discuss important issues. We were blessed and inspired with the topics that we’re studying every Sunday.

Our Baptist Men organization were led by our officers, Ramonito Buenafe, President; Vicente Quilino, Vice President; Alex Artajo, Secretary, Engr. Rollin Deocampo, Treasurer. Every First Sunday of the month, Rev. Alberto Valdez, led the Sunday School together with the different Church organizations. There we discussed quite different and important issue. Rev.Valdez encourages every one to participate in the discussions. If no one asks questions, Rev. Valdez asked the need questions to ask.

We also have our Cell Groups meetings, where sharing of testimonies and discussions were made. There were 4 Cell Groups at Lifegate Church. Cell Group 1 held their fellowship every Saturday. Cell Group 2 have their meetings every 3rd Saturdays of the month. Cell Group No. 3, meets every 3rd Sunday of the month. And Cell Group No. 4 meet’s every 4th Saturday of the month. Often, the Cell Groups have lunch among themselves during their meetings.

Every Friday at 6:00 PM in the evening, we have our Baptist Men’s Fellowship. It is a day that each of us are looking forward with eager anticipation. We often arrived at the house of the Fellowship host at 5:45 PM. We were provided with coffee and bread or native delicacies while having conversation. Often, we start our meeting at 6:00 PM sharp.

I joined the Baptist Men Fellowsip because I want to learn the dynamics of the groups learning processes. The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church - Leganes, has a unique and wonderful story of faith and service to God. I don’t know if there are pastors like me, who after they retire, were joining the fellowship of Baptist Men in their churches. Some Pastors only stay at home and do their household chores. It’s difficult to have continued fellowship with other pastors after retirement. It will be best for Pastor, after retirement to join the Baptist Men fellowship, for strength and nourishment of the spiritual and educational lives.

Our Baptist Mens fellowhip every Friday evening is a wonderful fellowship ever. At the start of every week, we are looking forward to the coming of Friday evenings. We start the fellowship with snacks, courtesy of the host’s family. The leader for the day fellowship was assigned ahead of time, so that all will be ready before the start of the meeting. The Speaker, for the fellowship is always the host Baptist Man, unless he asked somebody to be the speaker in his behalf. He also voluntarily prepare dinner for us, after the fellowship.

I observed that the fellowship Speaker, prepares his message in advance. He used most of the days in the week to study, prepare and construct his message. Hosting the Baptist Men’s fellowship is a great way to learn. The host was forced to study, do research, to share God’s message for us. It will helped him to nourished the Word of God for his growth.

We usually brought with us the Hiligaynon Hymnal every fellowship. We sang a hymn or two. It is followed by a prayer, led by an assigned leader. Then we share our testimonies – sharing why we are thankful to God for the week. What they Lord has provided us and our family during the week. We thank God for our lives, our jobs, our health. Even our songs. We attentively listen to the person who is sharing his testimony of God’s goodness. It’s a wonderful opportunity for each of us, because it gives us strength and courage. After the sharing, the fellowship Speaker share God’s message for us. Most often, about 15 minutes of reflections on God”s words.

We stood together and prepare to pray. We were remined of what and who to pray. We were asked to pray for each assigned family. We pray for our sick brothers and sisters. We prayed for the children that have some sickness. We prayed for our children. Each were given the tasked to pray for our fellow sick brothers and sisters. We pray for the olds and the aged. We went on the list of sick brothers and sisters. We look for the sick Those who were not able to attend worship.

Then, we joined hands. We sang prayer songs, like “ I Cast All My Cares Upon You” or “I Know the Lord Will Answer All My Prayers”. Then, we silently prayed for those we were assigned to pray. We prayed for the person and the family on our left. Somebody was assigned to close our fellowship, and prayed for all of us. We clasped each others hand. We shaked hands of each other.

Then, we went on our Friday Fellowship Dinner. We have continued conversations. And fellowship drinks, cokes, some home made drinks, and mints.

The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church is reaching out. We have started a fellowship with the Baptist Men of Nabitasan Baptist Church. A joint fellowship is held some Thursday afternoon with Nabitasan Baptist Men. And Nabitasan joins Lifegate Church every every Friday at 6:00 PM. We join together in fellowship, with songs, Bible Study, sharing, testimonies, prayer and fellowship dinner.

We reached out further. The President of Lifegate Church Baptist Men, Mr. Arnel Sipe was elected President of the Inner Iloilo Circuit of Baptist Men Fellowship comprising churches in Iloilo City, Ito Baptist Church and Ito Grace Baptist Church in Cabatuan; Consolacion Baptist Church in San Miguel; Cadagmayan Baptist Church and Sta. Barbara Baptist Church in Sta. Barbara; Amparo Baptist Church, Pagsanga-an Baptist Church and Pavia Baptist Church in Pavia;

Lifegate Church, Nabitasan Baptist Church and Cari-Mayor Baptist Church in Leganes and Zarraga Evangelical Church and Green Vale Baptist Church in Zarraga. A general assembly of the said organization is held, quarterly every year. Here Mr. Arnel Sipe, with the circuit officers, looks for ways to strengthen the the Baptist Men of Inner Circuit Conference.

And most recently, Engr. Rollin Deocampo, a Deacon and Treasurer of Lifegate Church-Leganes, and former Vice President of the Iloilo Baptist Men Organization (IBMO), was elected President of the said organization. Lifegate Church, with Engr. Rollin Deocamp, is now reaching out to the whole of Iloilo Baptist Men for joint efforts for strength and service in the Lord’s works.

\

The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church, Leganes, Iloilo

Chapter 57

I would like to share the story of the Baptist Men of Lifegate Church. I have been a member of the church for many years, when we decided to built our home in Buntatala, Leganes. We joined Lifegate Church, which before was known as Leganes Baptist Church. The Kinder School was to be started as another church ministry. It must be registered and must have a legal personality. The church was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commmission (SEC) and Department of Education & Culture (Dept. Ed), both government agencies.

Lifegate Church has a unique ministry. Rev. Albert Valdez is the pastor. Assisting him was his wife, Pastor Joy Lopez Valdez, in charged of the music and education ministry of the church.

Lifegate Church, is under the Chairmanship of Mrs. Jeanette Deocampo Artajo, President. The church underwent a major renovation with the supervision of Engr. Carl Jacar, member of the church and the Baptist Men. There were different organizations in the said church, composed of the Senior Citizens, Baptist Men, Baptist Women, Young Couples, Young Professionals, Young People and the children. Each of the said organization has its officers and functions.

We have a Church Choir that renders songs of encouragementvery Sunday Worship Service. We have different groups that were assigned to render Special Music and Offeratory Music. We have a Violinists and several guitarists that assist Pastor Joy Lopez Valdez in the Music Ministry. We often have a lovely and inspiring Worship Service.

Every Sunday, there were families assigned as Altar decorators. There were also persons who were assigned to gather the offerings. We have often 3 offerings every Sunday. Then, after the Benediction by the Pastor, the Church Chairperson, Mrs. Jeannete Artajo stood on the pulpit to announce some developments and upcoming activities of the church. A visitor who attended the Worship Service for the first time were called and introduced to the congregation.

We have Sunday School after the service. But before that, we take a break for our snacks, together with Baptist Women and the Youths, who loves snacks after worship . The Baptist Men loves to drink Brewed Coffee or Three-in-One coffee. Then we gather for our Sunday School. I would like to share only what we are doing during the Baptist Men’s Sunday School.

It was quite unique. Some churches in the Province of Iloilo, Iloilo City and Inner Iloilo area have only 5 Baptist Men joining Sunday School. In other churches, only about 10 attended Sunday School. More Baptist Women attends Sunday School on Sundays. At Lifegate Church, we have more than 30 Baptist Men members, 20-25, attended regularly Sunday School.

Our Sunday School starts often at 10:45 A.M and ends at 12:00 noon. It was always an inspiring and lively Sunday School. Every body were called to participate in the disucssions and where challenged to asked questions. Then some others were asked to answer the questions before them. We gave credit to our Sunday School teacher, Engr. Rollin Deocampo for his faithfulness, dedication, commitment in being our teacher and mentor in Sunday School.

Every one of us, are anticipating coming of next Sunday, and participating in Sunday School, for our spiritual and educational growth. It is also in Sunday School that we learn to speak and to discuss important issues. We were blessed and inspired with the topics that we’re studying every Sunday.

Our Baptist Men organization were led by our officers, Ramonito Buenafe, President; Vicente Quilino, Vice President; Alex Artajo, Secretary, Engr. Rollin Deocampo, Treasurer. Every First Sunday of the month, Rev. Alberto Valdez, led the Sunday School together with the different Church organizations. There we discussed quite different and important issue. Rev.Valdez encourages every one to participate in the discussions. If no one asks questions, Rev. Valdez asked the need questions to ask.

We also have our Cell Groups meetings, where sharing of testimonies and discussions were made. There were 4 Cell Groups at Lifegate Church. Cell Group 1 held their fellowship every Saturday. Cell Group 2 have their meetings every 3rd Saturdays of the month. Cell Group No. 3, meets every 3rd Sunday of the month. And Cell Group No. 4 meet’s every 4th Saturday of the month. Often, the Cell Groups have lunch among themselves during their meetings.

Every Friday at 6:00 PM in the evening, we have our Baptist Men’s Fellowship. It is a day that each of us are looking forward with eager anticipation. We often arrived at the house of the Fellowship host at 5:45 PM. We were provided with coffee and bread or native delicacies while having conversation. Often, we start our meeting at 6:00 PM sharp.

I joined the Baptist Men Fellowsip because I want to learn the dynamics of the groups learning processes. The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church - Leganes, has a unique and wonderful story of faith and service to God. I don’t know if there are pastors like me, who after they retire, were joining the fellowship of Baptist Men in their churches. Some Pastors only stay at home and do their household chores. It’s difficult to have continued fellowship with other pastors after retirement. It will be best for Pastor, after retirement to join the Baptist Men fellowship, for strength and nourishment of the spiritual and educational lives.

Our Baptist Mens fellowhip every Friday evening is a wonderful fellowship ever. At the start of every week, we are looking forward to the coming of Friday evenings. We start the fellowship with snacks, courtesy of the host’s family. The leader for the day fellowship was assigned ahead of time, so that all will be ready before the start of the meeting. The Speaker, for the fellowship is always the host Baptist Man, unless he asked somebody to be the speaker in his behalf. He also voluntarily prepare dinner for us, after the fellowship.

I observed that the fellowship Speaker, prepares his message in advance. He used most of the days in the week to study, prepare and construct his message. Hosting the Baptist Men’s fellowship is a great way to learn. The host was forced to study, do research, to share God’s message for us. It will helped him to nourished the Word of God for his growth.

We usually brought with us the Hiligaynon Hymnal every fellowship. We sang a hymn or two. It is followed by a prayer, led by an assigned leader. Then we share our testimonies – sharing why we are thankful to God for the week. What they Lord has provided us and our family during the week. We thank God for our lives, our jobs, our health. Even our songs. We attentively listen to the person who is sharing his testimony of God’s goodness. It’s a wonderful opportunity for each of us, because it gives us strength and courage. After the sharing, the fellowship Speaker share God’s message for us. Most often, about 15 minutes of reflections on God”s words.

We stood together and prepare to pray. We were remined of what and who to pray. We were asked to pray for each assigned family. We pray for our sick brothers and sisters. We prayed for the children that have some sickness. We prayed for our children. Each were given the tasked to pray for our fellow sick brothers and sisters. We pray for the olds and the aged. We went on the list of sick brothers and sisters. We look for the sick Those who were not able to attend worship.

Then, we joined hands. We sang prayer songs, like “ I Cast All My Cares Upon You” or “I Know the Lord Will Answer All My Prayers”. Then, we silently prayed for those we were assigned to pray. We prayed for the person and the family on our left. Somebody was assigned to close our fellowship, and prayed for all of us. We clasped each others hand. We shaked hands of each other.

Then, we went on our Friday Fellowship Dinner. We have continued conversations. And fellowship drinks, cokes, some home made drinks, and mints.

The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church is reaching out. We have started a fellowship with the Baptist Men of Nabitasan Baptist Church. A joint fellowship is held some Thursday afternoon with Nabitasan Baptist Men. And Nabitasan joins Lifegate Church every Friday at 6:00 PM. We join together in fellowship, with songs, Bible Study, sharing, testimonies, prayer and fellowship dinner.

We reached out further. The President of Lifegate Church Baptist Men, Mr. Arnel Sipe was elected President of the Inner Iloilo Circuit of Baptist Men Fellowship comprising churches in Iloilo City, Ito Baptist Church and Ito Grace Baptist Church in Cabatuan; Consolacion Baptist Church in San Miguel; Cadagmayan Baptist Church and Sta. Barbara Baptist Church in Sta. Barbara; Amparo Baptist Church, Pagsanga-an Baptist Church and Pavia Baptist Church in Pavia;

Lifegate Church, Nabitasan Baptist Church and Cari-Mayor Baptist Church in Leganes and Zarraga Evangelical Church and Green Vale Baptist Church in Zarraga. A general assembly of the said organization is held, quarterly every year. Here Mr. Arnel Sipe, with the circuit officers, looks for ways to strengthen the Baptist Men of Inner Circuit Conference.

And most recently, Engr. Rollin Deocampo, a Deacon and Treasurer of Lifegate Church-Leganes, and former Vice President of the Iloilo Baptist Men Organization (IBMO), was elected President of the said organization. Lifegate Church, with Engr. Rollin Deocamp, is now reaching out to the whole of Iloilo Baptist Men for joint efforts for strength and service in the Lord’s works.

\

The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church, Leganes, Iloilo

I would like to share the story of the Baptist Men of Lifegate Church. I have been a member of the church for many years, when we decided to built our home in Buntatala, Leganes. We joined Lifegate Church, which before was known as Leganes Baptist Church. The Kinder School was to be started as another church ministry. It must be registered and must have a legal personality. The church was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commmission (SEC) and Department of Education & Culture (Dept. Ed), both government agencies.

Lifegate Church has a unique ministry. Rev. Albert Valdez is the pastor. Assisting him was his wife, Pastor Joy Lopez Valdez, in charged of the music and education ministry of the church.

Lifegate Church, is under the Chairmanship of Mrs. Jeanette Deocampo Artajo, President. The church underwent a major renovation with the supervision of Engr. Carl Jacar, member of the church and the Baptist Men. There were different organizations in the said church, composed of the Senior Citizens, Baptist Men, Baptist Women, Young Couples, Young Professionals, Young People and the children. Each of the said organization has its officers and functions.

We have a Church Choir that renders songs of encouragementvery Sunday Worship Service. We have different groups that were assigned to render Special Music and Offeratory Music. We have a Violinists and several guitarists that assist Pastor Joy Lopez Valdez in the Music Ministry. We often have a lovely and inspiring Worship Service.

Every Sunday, there were families assigned as Altar decorators. There were also persons who were assigned to gather the offerings. We have often 3 offerings every Sunday. Then, after the Benediction by the Pastor, the Church Chairperson, Mrs. Jeannete Artajo stood on the pulpit to announce some developments and upcoming activities of the church. A visitor who attended the Worship Service for the first time were called and introduced to the congregation.

We have Sunday School after the service. But before that, we take a break for our snacks, together with Baptist Women and the Youths, who loves snacks after worship. The Baptist Men loves to drink Brewed Coffee or Three-in-One coffee. Then we gather for our Sunday School. I would like to share only what we are doing during the Baptist Men’s Sunday School.

It was quite unique. Some churches in the Province of Iloilo, Iloilo City and Inner Iloilo area have only 5 Baptist Men joining Sunday School. In other churches, only about 10 attended Sunday School. More Baptist Women attends Sunday School on Sundays. At Lifegate Church, we have more than 30 Baptist Men members, 20-25, attended regularly Sunday School.

Our Sunday School starts often at 10:45 A.M and ends at 12:00 noon. It was always an inspiring and lively Sunday School. Every body were called to participate in the disucssions and where challenged to asked questions. Then some others were asked to answer the questions before them. We gave credit to our Sunday School teacher, Engr. Rollin Deocampo for his faithfulness, dedication, commitment in being our teacher and mentor in Sunday School.

Every one of us, are anticipating coming of next Sunday, and participating in Sunday School, for our spiritual and educational growth. It is also in Sunday School that we learn to speak and to discuss important issues. We were blessed and inspired with the topics that we’re studying every Sunday.

Our Baptist Men organization were led by our officers, Ramonito Buenafe, President; Vicente Quilino, Vice President; Alex Artajo, Secretary, Engr. Rollin Deocampo, Treasurer. Every First Sunday of the month, Rev. Alberto Valdez, led the Sunday School together with the different Church organizations. There we discussed quite different and important issue. Rev. Valdez encourages every one to participate in the discussions. If no one asks questions, Rev. Valdez asked the need questions to ask.

We also have our Cell Groups meetings, where sharing of testimonies and discussions were made. There were 4 Cell Groups at Lifegate Church. Cell Group 1 held their fellowship every Saturday. Cell Group 2 have their meetings every 3rd Saturdays of the month. Cell Group No. 3, meets every 3rd Sunday of the month. And Cell Group No. 4 meet’s every 4th Saturday of the month. Often, the Cell Groups have lunch among themselves during their meetings.

Every Friday at 6:00 PM in the evening, we have our Baptist Men’s Fellowship. It is a day that each of us are looking forward with eager anticipation. We often arrived at the house of the Fellowship host at 5:45 PM. We were provided with coffee and bread or native delicacies while having conversation. Often, we start our meeting at 6:00 PM sharp.

I joined the Baptist Men Fellowsip because I want to learn the dynamics of the groups learning processes. The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church - Leganes, has a unique and wonderful story of faith and service to God. I don’t know if there are pastors like me, who after they retire, were joining the fellowship of Baptist Men in their churches. Some Pastors only stay at home and do their household chores. It’s difficult to have continued fellowship with other pastors after retirement. It will be best for Pastor, after retirement to join the Baptist Men fellowship, for strength and nourishment of the spiritual and educational lives.

Our Baptist Mens fellowhip every Friday evening is a wonderful fellowship ever. At the start of every week, we are looking forward to the coming of Friday evenings. We start the fellowship with snacks, courtesy of the host’s family. The leader for the day fellowship was assigned ahead of time, so that all will be ready before the start of the meeting. The Speaker, for the fellowship is always the host Baptist Man, unless he asked somebody to be the speaker in his behalf. He also voluntarily prepare dinner for us, after the fellowship.

I observed that the fellowship Speaker, prepares his message in advance. He used most of the days in the week to study, prepare and construct his message. Hosting the Baptist Men’s fellowship is a great way to learn. The host was forced to study, do research, to share God’s message for us. It will helped him to nourished the Word of God for his growth.

We usually brought with us the Hiligaynon Hymnal every fellowship. We sang a hymn or two. It is followed by a prayer, led by an assigned leader. Then we share our testimonies – sharing why we are thankful to God for the week. What they Lord has provided us and our family during the week. We thank God for our lives, our jobs, our health. Even our songs. We attentively listen to the person who is sharing his testimony of God’s goodness. It’s a wonderful opportunity for each of us, because it gives us strength and courage. After the sharing, the fellowship Speaker share God’s message for us. Most often, about 15 minutes of reflections on God” s words.

We stood together and prepare to pray. We were remined of what and who to pray. We were asked to pray for each assigned family. We pray for our sick brothers and sisters. We prayed for the children that have some sickness. We prayed for our children. Each were given the tasked to pray for our fellow sick brothers and sisters. We pray for the olds and the aged. We went on the list of sick brothers and sisters. We look for the sick Those who were not able to attend worship.

Then, we joined hands. We sang prayer songs, like “I Cast All My Cares Upon You” or “I Know the Lord Will Answer All My Prayers”. Then, we silently prayed for those we were assigned to pray. We prayed for the person and the family on our left. Somebody was assigned to close our fellowship, and prayed for all of us. We clasped each others hand. We shaked hands of each other.

Then, we went on our Friday Fellowship Dinner. We have continued conversations. And fellowship drinks, cokes, some home made drinks, and mints.

The Baptist Men of Lifegate Church is reaching out. We have started a fellowship with the Baptist Men of Nabitasan Baptist Church. A joint fellowship is held some Thursday afternoon with Nabitasan Baptist Men. And Nabitasan joins Lifegate Church every Friday at 6:00 PM. We join together in fellowship, with songs, Bible Study, sharing, testimonies, prayer and fellowship dinner.

We reached out further. The President of Lifegate Church Baptist Men, Mr. Arnel Sipe was elected President of the Inner Iloilo Circuit of Baptist Men Fellowship comprising churches in Iloilo City, Ito Baptist Church and Ito Grace Baptist Church in Cabatuan; Consolacion Baptist Church in San Miguel; Cadagmayan Baptist Church and Sta. Barbara Baptist Church in Sta. Barbara; Amparo Baptist Church, Pagsanga-an Baptist Church and Pavia Baptist Church in Pavia;

Lifegate Church, Nabitasan Baptist Church and Cari-Mayor Baptist Church in Leganes and Zarraga Evangelical Church and Green Vale Baptist Church in Zarraga. A general assembly of the said organization is held, quarterly every year. Here Mr. Arnel Sipe, with the circuit officers, looks for ways to strengthen the Baptist Men of Inner Circuit Conference.

And most recently, Engr. Rollin Deocampo, a Deacon and Treasurer of Lifegate Church-Leganes, and former Vice President of the Iloilo Baptist Men Organization (IBMO), was elected President of the said organization. Lifegate Church, with Engr. Rollin Deocamp, is now reaching out to the whole of Iloilo Baptist Men for joint efforts for strength and service in the Lord’s works.

\

Chapter 48 - Mrs. Leonila Antonio -NPA Baptist Leader, Translate CPP Educational Materials in English and Tagalog to Ilonggo

                                  Chapter  48

           Mrs. Leonila Antonio – NPA  Baptist Leader, Translate CPP Educational

                     Materials  in English and Tagalog  to  Ilonggo

When Pastor Samuel Antonio decided to join the NPA, he asked his wife to join him in the NPA camp in the hinterlands  of Upper South Negros. This district composed the  4 towns of  Kabankalan, Candoni, Sipalay and Hinobaan.

It was dangerous to leave Mrs. Leonila Antonio in their home alone.  It may be hard for her to accompany Pastor Sam Antonio in the hills, but that’s much better options under the circumstances. Alone in their  home, Pastor Antonio  will never be able to protect his wife. And with many military atrocities during martial law, a lovely and young  woman as Mrs. Antonio , could be a vulnerable   consumptions  for some military  in the hinterlands during those times.

It was hard decision for  the couple. But they have to make the decision. The decided to be together  in the struggle, with the Filipino poor in the work for freedom, justice and liberations.

After some months of briefing, study, training and involvements, Mrs. Leonila Antonio was accepted as member of the NPA’s Propaganda  & Organiziang Team (POT), assigned in the hinterland villages of Upper South Negros.

Before their marriage, Mrs. Antonio  studied at La Consolacion College (LCC) in Bacolod City. She worked for several yours in some business companies. Then she met Pastor Samuel Antonio. After some months of courtship, they were married. It was quite difficult for her, living for years in the city and join Pastor Antonio in Upper South Negros and visiting the 24 village churches  that he and their father, Rev.  Victorino  Antonio have helped  built in his 35 years of ministry in the hinterland areas.

With her marriage to  Pastor Sam, it seemed that Mrs. Antonio was thrown into a very hard life in the mountain villages, where she had to re-adjust much facet of her life and way of living, from a city girl, to a  revolutionary educator  in the villages of South Negros. She adjusted fast to the challenge of a new life and a new calling.

When she was assigned  to the Propaganda and Organizing  Team (POT), their main responsibility  was translation works. They were 3 in the team, sometimes 4.  They work and study with the farmers in the villages. But the  main task was translation works – translating the communist party’s educational materials which were in English and Tagalog to Ilonggo or Hiligaynon. Her education in college and wide  readings, suited her for the job of education and translations.

The translated materials in Ilonggo were then printed. It was used in the education works among the masses.  These was needed as a party responsibility, so that the masses involved in the studies  would knew the situations,  their basic rights, understand their responsibilities as good citizens and learn the  political directions of the party.

The translated materials in  Ilonggo were then printed. It was used in the education works  among the masses. This was needed  as party responsibility, so that the masses involved in the studies would knew the situations, their basic rights, understood their responsibilities as good citizens and learn the political directions of the party.

When I asked Mrs. Antonio how many farmers and farm workers  in the barangays were reached by the POT, she said, on normal situations, some 50-70 per cent of the masses in the barangays participates in the studies of the NPA. There were some people who do not want to participate in the education of the  Party. Some felt, the do not need it.  Other fears their involvements  will put them in difficulties with the military.

She said, “Education  is very important for all people, even those who were only primary grades and even those who have no formal education. For education were not only for those who have attended formal schooling.  Education will be learned by living, working and involving in the daily struggle for their basic rights. The masses, all of them, need to understand the “mass lines” of the party.

“With  this understanding, the masses of the barangays will be able to know  what were  good for the people,  specially,    the poor and the weak. They will also learn and understand, the evils of some government policies & the military, oligarchs and elites with their greedy and exploitative business interests. “

According to Mrs. Antonio, more than 40 per cent of the masses in the barangay hinterlands, now understood their political rights, they understood their business rights thru cooperatives and farmers’  associations studies  in the mountains.

The masses have learned to  understand their rights as consumers. And a growing numbers of the masses  can now stand and have the courage to fight and defend their rights.

In our conversations last   in January 2017,  I asked   Mrs. Antonio, how  she looked at the present efforts   of President Rodrigo Duterte  and the Peace Talks between the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.

 She said. “ I am hopeful and I pray for the success of the Peace Talks.  The people of the Philippines need to learn thru the Peace Talks…the real reasons for the war  in our country. Through the Peace Process, all of us,  specially  those who were  not and never involved in the fighting, must learn the real reasons for  the armed conflicts and how the conflicts can be solved.

“The war between the government and the New People’s Army have now killed  more than 40,000 Filipinos, Filipino soldiers, the New People’s Army and the civilians.  It’s a costly  war.”

How did she lived with her 4 children away from her, and living and cared by relatives and her friends in masses, when he was still with the party?

“I suffered so much anxiety every day for the security of  our children, because sometimes, they were used as guide  or investigated  on the whereabouts of there parents. During normal situations, we visited them, but not frequently. We worked hard on projects that will supplement  our children’s subsistence, in the hands of their guardians.  We really hoped and prayed that after the storms is over, we can also live   normal,  peaceful lives and society.”

What are the hopes of the masses in the hinterlands of Upper South Negros? She looked at me.

She looked at the blue sky. Her lips seem to quiver a little. Then, she smiled. She said: “After the battle is won, people and their children would someday  live a happy, peaceful and prosperous living.”

After working with the NPA,  Mrs. Leonila Antonio, together with her husband,  Pastor Samuel  Antonio, accepted President  President Fidel Ramos call for national reconciliations. The President  invited those who were fighting the government to a reconciliations process for change. 

They reflected on the call of the President. They accepted the call. They participated in the reconciliation process. They both decided to go back to the fold of the law. They fought their battle for change on another ground.  The battle for the mind and hearts of the people, in Upper South Negros.

They also started to work and build Farmers Associations in village. In some villages,  they organized cooperatives.  There organizations have grown and developed. They were now serving the several communities thru the organizations they have organized and whose officers and members were trained.

The Ministry Years: Chapter 48: Mrs. Leonila Antonio -NPA Baptist Leader, Translate CPP Educational Materials in English and Tagalog to Ilonggo

Chapter 48

Mrs. Leonila Antonio – NPA Baptist Leader, Translate CPP Educational

Materials in English and Tagalog to Ilonggo

When Pastor Samuel Antonio decided to join the NPA, he asked his wife to join him in the NPA camp in the hinterlands of Upper South Negros. This district composed the 4 towns of Kabankalan, Candoni, Sipalay and Hinobaan.

It was dangerous to leave Mrs. Leonila Antonio in their home alone. It may be hard for her to accompany Pastor Sam Antonio in the hills, but that’s much better options under the circumstances. Alone in their home, Pastor Antonio will never be able to protect his wife. And with many military atrocities during martial law, a lovely and young woman as Mrs. Antonio, could be a vulnerable consumptions for some military in the hinterlands during those times.

It was hard decision for the couple. But they have to make the decision. The decided to be together in the struggle, with the Filipino poor in the work for freedom, justice and liberations.

After some months of briefing, study, training and involvements, Mrs. Leonila Antonio was accepted as member of the NPA’s Propaganda & Organiziang Team (POT), assigned in the hinterland villages of Upper South Negros.

Before their marriage, Mrs. Antonio studied at La Consolacion College (LCC) in Bacolod City. She worked for several yours in some business companies. Then she met Pastor Samuel Antonio. After some months of courtship, they were married. It was quite difficult for her, living for years in the city and join Pastor Antonio in Upper South Negros and visiting the 24 village churches that he and their father, Rev. Victorino Antonio have helped built in his 35 years of ministry in the hinterland areas.

With her marriage to Pastor Sam, it seemed that Mrs. Antonio was thrown into a very hard life in the mountain villages, where she had to re-adjust much facet of her life and way of living, from a city girl, to a revolutionary educator in the villages of South Negros. She adjusted fast to the challenge of a new life and a new calling.

When she was assigned to the Propaganda and Organizing Team (POT), their main responsibility was translation works. They were 3 in the team, sometimes 4. They work and study with the farmers in the villages. But the main task was translation works – translating the communist party’s educational materials which were in English and Tagalog to Ilonggo or Hiligaynon. Her education in college and wide readings, suited her for the job of education and translations.

The translated materials in Ilonggo were then printed. It was used in the education works among the masses. These was needed as a party responsibility, so that the masses involved in the studies would knew the situations, their basic rights, understand their responsibilities as good citizens and learn the political directions of the party.

The translated materials in Ilonggo were then printed. It was used in the education works among the masses. This was needed as party responsibility, so that the masses involved in the studies would knew the situations, their basic rights, understood their responsibilities as good citizens and learn the political directions of the party.

When I asked Mrs. Antonio how many farmers and farm workers in the barangays were reached by the POT, she said, on normal situations, some 50-70 per cent of the masses in the barangays participates in the studies of the NPA. There were some people who do not want to participate in the education of the Party. Some felt, the do not need it. Other fears their involvements will put them in difficulties with the military.

She said, “Education is very important for all people, even those who were only primary grades and even those who have no formal education. For education were not only for those who have attended formal schooling. Education will be learned by living, working and involving in the daily struggle for their basic rights. The masses, all of them, need to understand the “mass lines” of the party.

“With this understanding, the masses of the barangays will be able to know what were good for the people, specially, the poor and the weak. They will also learn and understand, the evils of some government policies & the military, oligarchs and elites with their greedy and exploitative business interests. “

According to Mrs. Antonio, more than 40 per cent of the masses in the barangay hinterlands, now understood their political rights, they understood their business rights thru cooperatives and farmers’ associations studies in the mountains.

The masses have learned to understand their rights as consumers. And a growing numbers of the masses can now stand and have the courage to fight and defend their rights.

In our conversations last in January 2017, I asked Mrs. Antonio, how she looked at the present efforts of President Rodrigo Duterte and the Peace Talks between the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.

She said. “I am hopeful and I pray for the success of the Peace Talks. The people of the Philippines need to learn thru the Peace Talks…the real reasons for the war in our country. Through the Peace Process, all of us, specially those who were not and never involved in the fighting, must learn the real reasons for the armed conflicts and how the conflicts can be solved.

“The war between the government and the New People’s Army have now killed more than 40,000 Filipinos, Filipino soldiers, the New People’s Army and the civilians. It’s a costly war.”

How did she lived with her 4 children away from her, and living and cared by relatives and her friends in masses, when he was still with the party?

“I suffered so much anxiety every day for the security of our children, because sometimes, they were used as guide or investigated on the whereabouts of there parents. During normal situations, we visited them, but not frequently. We worked hard on projects that will supplement our children’s subsistence, in the hands of their guardians. We really hoped and prayed that after the storms is over, we can also live normal, peaceful lives and society.”

What are the hopes of the masses in the hinterlands of Upper South Negros? She looked at me.

She looked at the blue sky. Her lips seem to quiver a little. Then, she smiled. She said: “After the battle is won, people and their children would someday live a happy, peaceful and prosperous living.”

After working with the NPA, Mrs. Leonila Antonio, together with her husband, Pastor Samuel Antonio, accepted President Fidel Ramos call for national reconciliations. The President invited those who were fighting the government to a reconciliations process for change.

They reflected on the call of the President. They accepted the call. They participated in the reconciliation process. They both decided to go back to the fold of the law. They fought their battle for change on another ground. The battle for the mind and hearts of the people, in Upper South Negros.

They also started to work and build Farmers Associations in village. In some villages, they organized cooperatives. There organizations have grown and developed. They were now serving the several communities thru the organizations they have organized and whose officers and members were trained.

---

Part of the series The Ministry Years (chapter 48 of 48)

← Previous: Typhoon Frank Came, With Floods, We Never Saw Before!

The Ministry Years: Chapter 48: Mrs. Leonila Antonio -NPA Baptist Leader, Translate CPP Educational Materials in English and Tagalog to Ilonggo

Chapter 48

Mrs. Leonila Antonio – NPA Baptist Leader, Translate CPP Educational

Materials in English and Tagalog to Ilonggo

When Pastor Samuel Antonio decided to join the NPA, he asked his wife to join him in the NPA camp in the hinterlands of Upper South Negros. This district composed the 4 towns of Kabankalan, Candoni, Sipalay and Hinobaan.

It was dangerous to leave Mrs. Leonila Antonio in their home alone. It may be hard for her to accompany Pastor Sam Antonio in the hills, but that’s much better options under the circumstances. Alone in their home, Pastor Antonio will never be able to protect his wife. And with many military atrocities during martial law, a lovely and young woman as Mrs. Antonio , could be a vulnerable consumptions for some military in the hinterlands during those times.

It was hard decision for the couple. But they have to make the decision. The decided to be together in the struggle, with the Filipino poor in the work for freedom, justice and liberations.

After some months of briefing, study, training and involvements, Mrs. Leonila Antonio was accepted as member of the NPA’s Propaganda & Organiziang Team (POT), assigned in the hinterland villages of Upper South Negros.

Before their marriage, Mrs. Antonio studied at La Consolacion College (LCC) in Bacolod City. She worked for several yours in some business companies. Then she met Pastor Samuel Antonio. After some months of courtship, they were married. It was quite difficult for her, living for years in the city and join Pastor Antonio in Upper South Negros and visiting the 24 village churches that he and their father, Rev. Victorino Antonio have helped built in his 35 years of ministry in the hinterland areas.

With her marriage to Pastor Sam, it seemed that Mrs. Antonio was thrown into a very hard life in the mountain villages, where she had to re-adjust much facet of her life and way of living, from a city girl, to a revolutionary educator in the villages of South Negros. She adjusted fast to the challenge of a new life and a new calling.

When she was assigned to the Propaganda and Organizing Team (POT), their main responsibility was translation works. They were 3 in the team, sometimes 4. They work and study with the farmers in the villages. But the main task was translation works – translating the communist party’s educational materials which were in English and Tagalog to Ilonggo or Hiligaynon. Her education in college and wide readings, suited her for the job of education and translations.

The translated materials in Ilonggo were then printed. It was used in the education works among the masses. These was needed as a party responsibility, so that the masses involved in the studies would knew the situations, their basic rights, understand their responsibilities as good citizens and learn the political directions of the party.

The translated materials in Ilonggo were then printed. It was used in the education works among the masses. This was needed as party responsibility, so that the masses involved in the studies would knew the situations, their basic rights, understood their responsibilities as good citizens and learn the political directions of the party.

When I asked Mrs. Antonio how many farmers and farm workers in the barangays were reached by the POT, she said, on normal situations, some 50-70 per cent of the masses in the barangays participates in the studies of the NPA. There were some people who do not want to participate in the education of the Party. Some felt, the do not need it. Other fears their involvements will put them in difficulties with the military.

She said, “Education is very important for all people, even those who were only primary grades and even those who have no formal education. For education were not only for those who have attended formal schooling. Education will be learned by living, working and involving in the daily struggle for their basic rights. The masses, all of them, need to understand the “mass lines” of the party.

“With this understanding, the masses of the barangays will be able to know what were good for the people, specially, the poor and the weak. They will also learn and understand, the evils of some government policies & the military, oligarchs and elites with their greedy and exploitative business interests. “

According to Mrs. Antonio, more than 40 per cent of the masses in the barangay hinterlands, now understood their political rights, they understood their business rights thru cooperatives and farmers’ associations studies in the mountains.

The masses have learned to understand their rights as consumers. And a growing numbers of the masses can now stand and have the courage to fight and defend their rights.

In our conversations last in January 2017, I asked Mrs. Antonio, how she looked at the present efforts of President Rodrigo Duterte and the Peace Talks between the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.

She said. “ I am hopeful and I pray for the success of the Peace Talks. The people of the Philippines need to learn thru the Peace Talks…the real reasons for the war in our country. Through the Peace Process, all of us, specially those who were not and never involved in the fighting, must learn the real reasons for the armed conflicts and how the conflicts can be solved.

“The war between the government and the New People’s Army have now killed more than 40,000 Filipinos, Filipino soldiers, the New People’s Army and the civilians. It’s a costly war.”

How did she lived with her 4 children away from her, and living and cared by relatives and her friends in masses, when he was still with the party?

“I suffered so much anxiety every day for the security of our children, because sometimes, they were used as guide or investigated on the whereabouts of there parents. During normal situations, we visited them, but not frequently. We worked hard on projects that will supplement our children’s subsistence, in the hands of their guardians. We really hoped and prayed that after the storms is over, we can also live normal, peaceful lives and society.”

What are the hopes of the masses in the hinterlands of Upper South Negros? She looked at me.

She looked at the blue sky. Her lips seem to quiver a little. Then, she smiled. She said: “After the battle is won, people and their children would someday live a happy, peaceful and prosperous living.”

After working with the NPA, Mrs. Leonila Antonio, together with her husband, Pastor Samuel Antonio, accepted President Fidel Ramos call for national reconciliations. The President invited those who were fighting the government to a reconciliations process for change.

They reflected on the call of the President. They accepted the call. They participated in the reconciliation process. They both decided to go back to the fold of the law. They fought their battle for change on another ground. The battle for the mind and hearts of the people, in Upper South Negros.

They also started to work and build Farmers Associations in village. In some villages, they organized cooperatives. There organizations have grown and developed. They were now serving the several communities thru the organizations they have organized and whose officers and members were trained.

---

Part of the series The Ministry Years (chapter 48 of 48)

← Previous: Typhoon Frank Came, With Floods, We Never Saw Before!