Philippines-Bacolod Newsletter (August)
- Pastor Jim O'Connor

- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Dear Friends and Partners,
Greetings in Christ!
Thank you for your prayers and support. We are grateful for God's faithfulness as we continue equipping believers and advancing the Gospel. We hope these ministry updates, testimonies, and prayer requests encourage you.
MINISTRY UPDATES
Worship Service
We thank the Lord for His continued faithfulness in our worship services. Week after week, we see His presence moving among us as His Word is preached, His people gather in fellowship, and hearts are encouraged and strengthened in their faith.
We are especially praying for some students from our mission school to step forward and become part of the worship ministry. May God help them come out of their shell, grow in confidence, and boldly use the talents He has entrusted to them—not for personal recognition, but to glorify His name and lead others into His presence.
Preaching and Teaching
To help deepen our understanding and application of God's Word, we use each Sunday's sermon as the foundation for our Monday Bible Study. This allows us to reflect more deeply on the message, ask questions, share insights, and encourage one another to put God's truth into practice. We are grateful to see believers growing in their knowledge of Scripture and in their commitment to follow Christ faithfully.
Outreach Ministry
Our newly opened outreach in Sagrado has been a great blessing. We are thankful to see parents joining our Bible studies, while the children's ministry continues to grow. Last Saturday, we were especially encouraged by the many young people who attended after introducing a new teacher for the youth. We praise God for this fruitful ministry and pray for continued spiritual growth
Youth and Children’s Ministry
We praise God for the renewed excitement among our youth as more new souls continue to join our gatherings. Our youth leaders are becoming more intentional and sensitive in discipling them.
We are also encouraged by the younger children—from toddlers to grade schoolers—whose parents have shared how they are developing a love for prayer at home. We pray that both our youth and children will continue to grow in their love for the Lord and remain rooted in His Word.
Discipleship
As our young people continue to be discipled, we are witnessing deeper spiritual growth and a greater love for God. We are seeing Him heal wounded hearts, replacing past pain and brokenness with joy, hope, and His love. We praise God for His transforming work in their lives.
School of Yada
We are nearing the completion of another term at the School of Yada, and we praise God for His work in the lives of our students. We have witnessed a growing commitment to love and serve the Lord, even amid financial challenges. Though attending classes often means sacrificing work opportunities, God has faithfully provided for their needs. We are also encouraged to see students applying God's Word by choosing forgiveness and experiencing healing in broken family relationships. We give all the glory to the Holy Spirit for the transformation taking place in their lives.


TESTIMONY
Shortly after our student Joana opened the new Bible study in Sagrado, the enemy launched an attack. While she was faithfully teaching, her husband returned to drinking with neighbors, tempting her to respond in anger. Instead, the Holy Spirit gave her discernment to recognize the spiritual battle. She chose to pray, read God's Word, and trust the Lord. That same day, God touched her husband's heart. He came home repentant and asked for forgiveness. This powerful testimony reminds us that prayer is effective, and the Holy Spirit gives us victory when we choose to respond in faith.
PRAYER REQUEST
Pray for Spiritual Growth – Pray that every member, especially our youth, children, and School of Yada students, will continue to grow in their love for God, remain faithful to His Word, and become mature disciples of Christ.
Pray for More Laborers – Pray that God will raise up more worship leaders, teachers, and ministry workers who will boldly use their gifts to serve Him and strengthen His church.
Pray for Open Doors and Protection – Pray for our outreaches, especially the new ministry in Sagrado, that more families will come to know Christ. Also pray for God's protection over our workers as they face spiritual opposition.
Pray for God's Continued Provision – Pray that the Lord will continue to provide for our missionaries, local outreaches, and School of Yada students, giving them the grace to persevere and trust Him in every season.
CLOSING NOTE
We give all glory to God for His continued faithfulness in our ministry this month. We remain grateful for every life touched, every heart renewed, and every opportunity to serve. May we continue to walk in obedience, passion, and unity as we advance God’s kingdom.
In Christ,
ETSIM Bacolod Family




Comments