Simply Living-Trusting-Loving

Update January 2012

2012-01-13T07:41:00.000-08:00

"You have put gladness in my heart, more than in the season that their grain and wine increased." -Psalm 4:7

It's already 2012, amazing huh?

We're back in Lucena and we have lots to be thankful for:

God provided transportation---Anna's brother-in-law and sister drove us in their van back and forth! It was really a different kind of ride compared to taking the bus, with our stuff and with Tabby, our cat. :)
God blessed our time reconnecting with family.

We had opportunity to share Christ to the family esp. to Anna's younger brother, Jason, who has a heart illness.
Glad to spend time with my mom, sister, brothers and nieces/nephews. I was able to watch 2 PBA games w/ my son, mom, brother and nephew.
Spent Christmas and New Year's eve with my wife's family. We also had a mini-reunion with my family after during our stay at a friend's house we were house sitting for a couple of days.

God blessed our time reconnecting with friends.
God blessed our time as a family.
God provided our daily needs, specific prayers answered esp. for our teens

Now that we're back, we continue to ask for your prayers for:

The owner of the house surprised us that the house will not be available for two weeks. So for two consecutive Sundays, please be praying where He would lead us next. This Sunday, we plan to hold it either in a restaurant w/ private huts or a members' house that is available. We're carefully and seriously praying for a new church home in God's time.
For the 10th and 11th BS in San Narciso on Jan.17 and 31.
Salvation of family members and relatives.
Inna's college, homeschooling, health and computer job opportunities
His leading and guidance this 2012.

Looking back in 2011, we praise God for the many answered prayers, His faithfulness and yours to us. Thank you!

Overwhelmed with His joy,
The Mangonons

Up-date October 2011

2011-10-23T09:54:00.000-07:00

Luke 21:19

¹⁹ In your patience possess ye your souls

In June

My teens made this wonderful card on father's day. I thank God, my Father for giving me such a wonderful family.

Luke 21:19

¹⁹ In your patience possess ye your souls

Up-date June 2011

2011-06-18T04:03:00.000-07:00

"...Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance of the LORD...the LORD will fight for you, you need only to be still." Exodus 14:13-14

It's time for an update: Anna and I are doing well by God's grace. It's a privilege living simply and loving our God and the people He has placed before us. But sometimes, it's hard to trust :) when times are difficult and things are not falling into place. As of this writing, we are still waiting for Inna's scholarship though classes already started June 13. If God allows, Inna will take up AB English at Enverga University here in Lucena. If not, she can find work then pursue her studies next semester. Please pray for God's direction and wisdom. Kydel is in junior HS and Chin-Chin in freshman, have started their homeschooling.

In May, we joined the summer sports fest along with other churches in our ministerial fellowship. Though we lost in the basketball game, we enjoyed the fellowship with the brethren.

In April, I was encouraged to be able to attend the annual Senior Pastors/Wives Conference in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental. The theme was "A Life Worthy Of The Calling",
from Ephesians chapters 4-6. It was a blessing to hear the teaching and of course, seeing new and old friends even though Anna wasn't able to come.

18th National Conference group picture

The following week after the conference, Pastor Jeffrey Jo and his family from Church of the Chief Shepherd, Kawit, Cavite visited us. He is one of my best friends since Elementary/HS days. He is the younger brother of Pastor Joseph Jo of CC Dumaguete:) Sunday morning,
Pastor Jeff taught at our church service from Acts 3.

In March, we attended our annual homeschool graduation/recognition day in CC Manila. Inna graduated from high school and Chin-Chin from Grade 6.

In February, I was invited to attend a 2 1/2 day pastors/workers conference in CC Montalban, east of Metro Manila. Pastor Derald Skinner and a mission team from Calvary Chapel Pearl Harbor visited CC Montalban. Pastor Brad shared and Esther led worship, and Pastor Derald taught from Acts 2. Also, a group from our church attended a one day conference in Manila about the end times.

With CC Pearl Harbor missions team and attendees

End times conference - Parañaque Bible Christian Church

Website: I met a cool guy from Ireland working here in Lucena.:) He gave free use of the domain name and hosting of our church/ministry website. Feel free to visit and sign in our guestbook. (www.calvarylucena.com)

Prayer: We are praying for a bigger/better facility to hold our Sunday and mid-week services. God's provision for the rent and for the livelihood so the church can be financially self-supporting.

We have started a twice a week Bible study at Mrs. Teresita Arquiza's residence. She is the mother of Carmela Barboza who is now attending church. They both accepted the Lord - Carmela last December and her mom last month during our first meeting. Pray for their spiritual growth and salvation of their family.

Thank you again for your encouragement, prayers and support.

Your fellow laborers in Christ,

Renan and Anna Mangonon

A Year Closer

2011-01-18T19:37:00.000-08:00

And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. (Romans 13:11)

A Blessed 2011 to everyone! Yes, we are a year closer to seeing the Lord, our Blessed Hope, the rapture of the church and His second coming!

Looking forward to what God will do next in and through our lives and in His church.

We are praying for our eldest daughter Inna, that we will be able to send her to college. She will graduate in high school this March along with our youngest daughter Chin-Chin in elementary. We trust where the Lord brings her next as she wants to be in a medical field and be a doctor someday, if the Lord allows. We don't know what the future holds but we know who holds the future.

We are thankful for the place where the church gathers every week. Sundays, we are in the Gospel according to Matthew ch. 15. Wednesdays, teaching from the book of Genesis, chs.35-36. Thursdays, prayer meeting.

Last Sunday, we handed out 2011 calendar tracts given to us by a fellow pastor here.

Please pray with us this Friday we'll be having a mini-outreach in one of the brethren's hometown in San Narciso, Quezon - 4 hours from Lucena City. Pray for traveling mercies and His protection.

Pray also for the spiritual growth of the church esp. the young believers.

Thank you for your love, prayers, support and encouragement.

Renan and Anna
(Inna, Kydel and Chin-Chin, too!)

My Holiday Wishlist

2010-11-28T19:22:00.000-08:00

It's time to update our blog and what a better way to write it is by creating and sharing my holiday wish list. No, this is a different kind of wish list, not just for this season...until He takes me home in heaven. This is not about Christmas gift ideas or presents. And though I'm not being asked, without further ado, here it goes:

PERSONAL

¹² Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. ¹³ Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, ¹⁴ I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:12-14)

A close walk with Jesus every day, nothing more, nothing less.

FAMILY

We celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary last December 4th, wow time goes fast! I thank God for giving me a wonderful wife and praying for a stronger. happier, more fun-filled memories that God would bring in to our lives.
That I would be a better father-partner, teacher, protector, playfellow, disciplinarian God wants me to be.
That our children would grow up serving the LORD in their hearts and for His kingdom.
Best of health and a medical/dental check-up.
Salvation of our family, relatives and friends.
That our borders be enlarged and be a blessing to more people.

MINISTRY

That the people we minister here would mature in their faith and that the fruit would remain.
For Janel, Jeanette and Carmela who have just recently accepted the LORD.
For CC Lucena:
Rolly, Ma. Fe, Joyce, Bill, Rofemil (his salvation)
Nanay Lourdes
Janel
David, Tess, Limuel, Lester
Jun-Jun, Acel, Rodel, Oning
Rico, Myrna
Rachele, Pio (his salvation)
Carmela, Daniel (his salvation)
Emma, Boy, Vilma, Betty-Conrado, Edwin, Vangie, Che-Che
Manolo
Joseph, Daisy
Salvation of their family, friends, work/schoolmates.

Praise Jesus! Please pray for Manuel Penalosa, he prayed to receive Christ when we visited him at the hospital after the service today. (Dec.5)
Please pray for our Christmas Thanksgiving potluck after the service tomorrow, Dec. 19, 2010 and the kids' outreach in Tayabas. We are currently in Matthew (ch.13), Sundays and Genesis (ch32-33), Wednesdays.
A friend of mine from Ireland offered an opportunity for me to earn a little something. It's an internet-based business card. You can check out this link and don't worry, this is safe:

http://www.cardplug.com/billing/aff.php?aff=003

Our eldest daughter, Inna will be in college by June 2011, next year Lord-willing. So actually, we've been praying about raising finances for that. She already took 2 college entrance tests here. Results will be released Feb 2011. She wants to take up Speech Pathology and maybe enter into medicine and be a doctor someday, only God knows.

If I think of other things, I'll add 'em. Our God is a God of breakthroughs and surprises. ;-) God is awesome!

²⁰ Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, ²¹ to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)

Thank you very much for your prayers.

Have a Blessed Christ-filled Holiday Season!

The Mangonons - Renan, Anna, Inna, Kydel and Chin-Chin

Sept-Oct Prayer Request/Update

2010-10-22T21:17:00.000-07:00

Traveling mercies, wisdom and provision for her National Career Assessment Exam on September 29. She and I will fly from Manila to Bacolod City on her birthday, Sept. 28 and head back home on the 30th. (Answered, praise Jesus!)

In our room before the exam

After the exam with her proctors

Church evangelism (house to house) In October/November.

Spiritual growth and involvement of church members.

Outreach in Tayabas, perseverance in teaching the kids and that we could reach their family and relatives

That more people be saved and encouraged as we start another Bible study in San Narciso, a remote town 3-4 hours drive from our place.

Part-time job to provide for my family's basic needs.

Provision for our kids education esp. for our eldest daughter, Inna, as she applies for college

Good health for my whole family

5th Northern CC pastors and workers conference in Manila at Harvest Christian Fellowship on October 27-29.

Please be praying that the Lord would provide funds for us to purchase a multimedia projector. We want to resume our monthly worship night along with another church/youth group.

The Lord is faithful, He is able to finish the work He has began in our lives.

Your prayers, support and your good thoughts towards us and the work of the Lord here in Lucena are very much appreciated and with that we praise the Lord.

In Him,

Renan, Anna, Inna, Kydel & Chin-Chin

Reminders

2010-08-28T00:54:00.000-07:00

A beloved pastor shared this article on Facebook and just want to share a part of the article---More Teens becoming 'fake Christians:

What can a parent do then?

Get "radical," Dean says.

She says parents who perform one act of radical faith in front of their children convey more than a multitude of sermons and mission trips.

A parent's radical act of faith could involve something as simple as spending a summer in Bolivia working on an agricultural renewal project or turning down a more lucrative job offer to stay at a struggling church, Dean says.

But it's not enough to be radical -- parents must explain "this is how Christians live," she says.

"If you don't say you're doing it because of your faith, kids are going to say my parents are really nice people," Dean says. "It doesn't register that faith is supposed to make you live differently unless parents help their kids connect the dots."

What a timely reminder! God knows I needed this and it really helped me as a parent now that my kids are on their early teens.

Recently, I read a blog of another beloved pastor and I was challenged on a somewhat ironic thing about pastoring.

"Pastor's are known for teaching, and so, talking a lot. But the reality is that in working with people and doing ministry, you have to be ready to do a lot of listening. Sometimes the listening part is much greater than the speaking part.

People are the number one priority when it comes to pastoral ministry. After all, if there are no people, there's no church to gather! And most people have stories of their own, their life stories, but too often no one will listen. When it comes to personal evangelism, hearing other people's stories (that is being willing to listen) often brings the opportunity to share our own story (our testimony), and the best story of all, God's story."

Not only a reminder but a challenge! This is an area of my life, I admit that needs improvement. "God, please help me."

Last August 7, our daughter Inna took her first college entrance test (UPCAT). We were there hours early so she could relax and that we could pray. After her exam, I asked her how was it. She said, it was fine. The results will be released on February 2011. We know it is all in God's hands and we are thankful for those who prayed for her. Please continue to pray for her as she takes more entrance tests in preparation for her college.

The National Career Assessment Exam was re-scheduled on September 29 instead of August 25. Pray for provision because the airline tickets we bought earlier are non rebookable/refundable.

Last August 23, was my beloved wife's 40th birthday. It was a time of remembering God's goodness and faithfulness. Thankful to God for giving me a loving and patient wife.

Last August 25, an elderly brother went home to be with the Lord. He suffered a heart attack and later was released from the hospital. I remember Kuya Ruding always arriving early for the worship service and even walking 15 mins. from and to his home. Pray for the salvation and God's comfort to his immediate family and relatives. I might travel to Tagkawayan, Quezon to his hometown for his burial, God-willing.

Jesus said He will build His church. So we continue meeting every week, studying the book of Matthew (ch.4) and Genesis (19) for our mid-week BS.

We also continue to teach the kids in Tayabas and by God's power reach their families as well.

There will be a CC Men's fellowship on Sept.3 & 4 in Manila @ Harvest Christian Fellowship. Pray for God's provision and the possibility of bringing some from the church to attend the event.

Please be praying that the Lord would provide funds for us to purchase a multimedia projector. We want to resume our monthly worship night along with another church/youth group.

For those who wish to support our family and this ministry, write us an e-mail or call:

God bless!

Your prayers and support means a lot to us!

Renan, Anna, Inna, Kydel and Chin-Chin

Praise and Prayer Update

2010-07-22T05:43:00.000-07:00

"God made prayer for man, so he could receive all the help he would need."

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)

We've just finished 1 & 2 Corinthians on Sundays and started a new book, the Gospel according to Matthew. On Wednesdays, we're studying the book of Genesis, the life of Abraham. Looking forward to the study and teaching of His Word.

Praise God for the finished and ongoing project - kitchen extension, outdoor ceilings. Anyone interested to do a paint job and other stuff? Little by little, how God provides!

My daughter's University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) and the National Career Assessment Exam (NCAE) on August 25.

Pray for the remaining days to review, strength, wisdom and of course, the results. May she give her best and commit the rest to Him. It's all up to the LORD. May His will be done!

We have 10-20 kids attend our Sunday afternoon outreach in Tayabas. They are full of joy and always excited to hear God's Word. Please remember us in prayer for wisdom and provision esp, for their health and schooling.
There are teams planning to do any forms of outreach and ministry here in Lucena, God-willing. Oh, how we need the support here, too! Pray for wisdom and the preparations to be done. To Him be the Glory!

Praise God for the monthly fellowship of pastors here, encouraging one another and building each other up in the LORD.

...Thank you soooo much!!!

For those who wish to support our family and this ministry, write us an e-mail or call:

God bless!

2 Chronicles 15:7,

Renan, Anna, Inna, Kydel and Chin-Chin

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

A father's day gift, my kids leading worship, praise the LORD!

"A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me?" (Malachi 1:6a)

I've heard this: Mother's Day is the day when the phone company reports the greatest number of phone calls. But Father's Day is the day with the greatest number of collect phone calls. Funny, huh? :)
As we celebrate this day, let's remember to honor our Heavenly Father all the days of our lives for He is worthy. May we always bring smiles to our loved ones esp. to our wives and children.

PRAISE HIGHLIGHTS:

Praise God! We had a refreshing and wonderful time in Manila, a quality, well-spent time with family, friends and loved ones.

This is my wife's home in Antipolo where we stayed in most of the time.

A visit to the Yutuc family in Marikina City.

Sweet time of fellowship with some church friends.

CC Manila Drama Outreach @ Sison, Pangasinan.

Opportunity to teach and fellowship @ CC Montalban.

Intimate time of worship @ Passion 2010 concert - May 25, 2010.

Lunch fellowship @ CC Manila

With the Pinca family in Pasig City.

With Dennis-Jenny Tablan in Cainta.

Meeting old friends, Ike and Cecil Villanueva.

PRAYER REQUESTS:

Our eldest daughter Inna's college entrance exam (UPCAT) on August 7, 2010 and her other college applications if necessary.
Wisdom and provision for our family and in homeschooling
God's fresh direction for the church and ministry

We really appreciate your love, prayers and support. For those who wish to support our family and this ministry, write us an e-mail or call:

Thank you!

O How He Loves Us,

Renan, Anna, Inna, Kydel and Chin-Chin

Up-date April-May 2010

2010-04-30T04:14:00.000-07:00

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,^"> who have been called according to his purpose."(Romans 8:28)

Praise Update - Had a wonderful and refreshing time at the Pastors' and Wives' conference in Dumaguete last April 13-16.

Link: Slideshow/Video
Spiritual growth/protection for those newly baptized.
Link: Baptism pics

Wisdom and protection for the Aben family. Last April 27, their electric meter was stolen. After 2 nights, their Volkswagen engine was stolen. This all happened while they were sleeping at night. The church meets at their house.

God-willing, plans for mini-furlough and 2 family reunions in Manila and Pampanga before homeschool starts in June.

If God's will for us to attend a youth camp in Bicol this month.
Still in prayer stage, there was an invitation for us to visit one of the brethren's hometown in San Narciso, Quezon - 4 hours from Lucena City - (possible outreach/church plant)
May 10 National Elections

Thank you for your love, support and prayers!

Up-date February-March 2010

2010-03-01T17:32:00.000-08:00

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." (John 14:1-3)

These are comforting words of Jesus for you and for me today. In the midst of the things happening in the world, God is the Source of comfort, hope and strength. He is the promise-Giver and the promise-Keeper. He is preparing a wonderful place for us and is coming back very, very soon. The signs are already at hand. I remember when I first got saved, the earthquakes happen just a few times in 5-10 years. Now it is increasing every year. But there is hope for those who know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. He is our solid Rock of salvation, the ever-present help in times of trouble. So let's occupy 'til He comes...

COUPLES' NIGHT - Last Feb.14, we showed the film, "Fireproof" with our church neighbor. As always, we all got teary-eyed at the end of the movie. We also had a small group discussion, prayer and food fellowship afterwards.

PASTORS' FELLOWSHIP/SEMINAR - Last Feb.22, there was a free seminar on Mentoring Leaders at a nearby local church. I was given the privilege to lead worship before the 2nd session. The speaker was Dr. Philip Flores, Nat'l Director of TOPIC (Trainers of Pastors Int'l Coalition) Phils. He was formerly the Director of Navigators here in the Phils.

NIGHT OF WORSHIP - Last Sunday. Feb.28, we had a time of praise and worship along with 2 other churches. My eldest daughter, Inna and I did a couple of songs along w/ Ptr. Eric, our guest worship leader from UEC church.

KIDS OUTREACH - We continue teaching the kids in the farm going thru the New Testament materials from CC Children's Ministry.

BIBLE STUDIES - We continue with 2 Corinthians on Sundays and Genesis on Wednesdays, Home BS/discipleship and meet Thursdays for prayer.

PRAYER REQUESTS:

God's wisdom and provision for our family; homeschooling (school year ends this March); Pastors' Conference in Dumaguete this coming April - if God's will to bring our 3 kids, transportation, registration, etc.; dental needs

Spiritual growth, night of worship this month, water baptism in April
The upcoming national/local elections this coming May 2010
Please see the previous blog/s for our other prayer concerns.:)

We want to thank you for taking time to read our newsletter, for praying and for showing your love and support. Drop us a line for your prayer requests and you can also connect with us on Facebook.

Comforted by His great love,

Renan, Anna, Inna, Caleb, Chin-Chin

Up-date January 2010

2010-01-31T02:13:00.000-08:00

Genesis 8:1a - "But God remembered..."
1 Samuel 1:19c - "And the LORD remembered..."

Praise the LORD! The best is yet to come. He is the God of breakthroughs. He has wonderful plans and surprises ahead of us.

Last Jan. 20, I turned 39 and celebrated 25 years in the Lord by God's grace. My family gave me a simple birthday dinner along with church friends. Praise the LORD!

Last Jan. 29, we had our 2nd Night of Worship. It was a blessed time ministering at His feet and experience His fresh touch upon our hearts! Lord-willing, we plan to have this every month along with the other churches. Praise the LORD!

After the worship

The church (that's us!) continue to gather at the new place every Sunday, we're now in 2 Corinthians 5. At mid-week, we started the book of Genesis and meet for prayer on Thursdays. Then we have kids outreach every afternoon during weekends. Praise the LORD!

After service

Kids doing their activity

As for my volunteer work at the Parole/Probation office, we started a small project called a "halfway house" for our clients waiting for work and as temporary shelter. Praise the LORD!

Therapeutic Community program

Last year, the Lord opened doors for tent-making, fixing desktop and laptop computers. Just this month, He provided 6 clients. Praise the LORD!

Pastors' fellowship

PRAYER ITEMS
"God made prayer for man, so he could receive all the help he would need"

- Personal walk with the LORD (top priority)
- Balanced time with family, work and ministry
- Kids' homeschooling, Inna's transfer to regular school, financial aid
- Maturity/growth of the believers
- More computers/reusable parts and wisdom to fix/recycle them :)
- Provision for dental needs

Thanks for praying!!!

Love and prayers,
Renan, Anna, Inna, Caleb, Chin-Chin

By God's grace

A Year-end message to all

2009-12-30T18:18:00.000-08:00

"You shall not go out with haste, . . . for the Lord will go before you, and the God of Israel will be your rear guard" —Isaiah 52:12

When we look back and wonder how we ever made it through the past year...

We realize it's not because we've been clever but because GOD has been wise;

Not because we've been strong, but because GOD has been mighty;

Not because we've been consistent, but because GOD has been faithful.

It was truly all about HIM!

Have a blessed 2010 to celebrate!

From our family to yours...\o/

Our family, by God's grace

Up-date December 2009

2009-12-03T02:26:00.000-08:00

"Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the LORD helped us." I Sam. 7:12/NIV

Would you believe, it's already December, 2009? :-)

Night of Worship
Last Friday, Nov, 27 we had an evening of praise and worship. There were a lot of firsts - my eldest daughter Inna lead worship; Foursquare-Lucena brethren joined us; We gathered in the new place even without tiles, paint and only a few chairs.

We've moved!
We continued our Sunday service at the new place, studied 1 Corinthians 16:1-4. Everyone was so blessed and encouraged, praise the LORD!

Happy Anniversary
Dec. 4th is our 16th wedding anniversary. Praise God for bringing us thus far. We still hold on to God's promise to us - "Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain..." PS 127:1

Happy Birthday to the King of Kings!
We're planning a simple SONday Christmas celebration on the 20th of December, a time of fun, food and fellowship. Then in the afternoon, we'll share some gifts to the kids in our outreach.

To all our friends and family, we appreciate you very much! Our heartfelt thanks to you... partnering with us through your prayers and support. Looking forward to what God has in store for us in the coming year.

A Blessed Christmas and a Christ-filled New Year to all!

After the night of worship

Kids outreach

Up-date November 2009

2009-11-06T20:39:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL!

"I thank my God every time I remember you." ~Phil. 1:3

We all have something to thank God for - our lives, family & friends, His protection and provision, good health, His wonderful plans & purposes. As Christians, we should all the more be grateful and thankful in every season of our life, even after a typhoon and flood.

Last month, I was able to see Pastor Mike Fulmer, his team from CC Big Bear and missionaries from CC Macau who came to CC Manila and CC Montalban. Then I was able to witness the wedding of a missionary and a Filipina, Tom & Claire Gibbs. There was also a short but encouraging visit of our friend, Dennis Tablan from CC Manila. I thank the Lord for these encouraging visits.

Fellowship w/ CC Big Bear team, CC Macau

At the wedding ceremony

Dennis, our family friend

PASTORS/WORKERS CONFERENCE

Though some got flu/colds, we were very much encouraged to be at the conference in Baguio City last Oct.29-31. Thank God for His provision and traveling mercies. My son Kydel and I were able to attend and left after the last session in the evening because of a 9-hour bus ride back to Lucena.

Northern CC Pastors

THE CHURCH THAT MEETS AT THEIR HOUSE

By the end of the month, hopefully the water supply and electricity will be ready so that the Aben family can move to their house and so we can also move to hold our services there. We covet your prayers for God's provision for new chairs/fans/sound equipment.

We will have a Night of Psalms on Nov. 29 @6pm, a 2 hours of worship in Scripture and songs. We have invited people from other churches to enjoy this special night. Lordwilling, we'll gather at the newly constructed house church.

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY/HOME BIBLE STUDIES

We continue teaching the kids in Tayabas every Sunday. We've been doing this for almost two years and we could witness their understanding of salvation. We pray that this ministry would also reach their parents/relatives as well. We're also praying for an early Christmas treat for the kids by the 1st week of December. The home BS/discipleship to the Precones family and to Jun-Jun, a jeepney driver, together w/ his siblings and friends. Pray for their spiritual growth, maturity, consistency in fellowship and God's timing for water baptism for the new believers.

Please remember 2 precious sisters, Tess Noblefranca who also ministers to the kids in our neighborhood while we we're in Tayabas and Joyce Aben, a college student who assists us in the outreach. They've been a big encouragement and help to us in the ministry.

HOMEFRONT

Please pray for our eldest daughter, Inna (15) as she enters regular school next year. Pray for God's provision and direction for her college. We continue to homeschool Caleb(13) and Chin(11). The kids are a big help to us as they render their talents thru worship and other needs in the ministry. Praise the Lord for them!

OTHER PRAYER CONCERNS:

Family time, personal growth, good health
God's provision -- house rent, utilities, dental needs
The new Christians -- please pray for retention in fellowship and faith.
pressures constantly tempt them to either stop or relax in their pursuit
Growth of the believers -- they are still few and young in their faith.
Children -- they are the most open and enthusiastic. However, some of their parents are
often not supportive of their attending a non-Catholic Bible teaching. Please pray
that families will be more trusting of us and that the teaching we give to the
children will provide a solid foundation for a future walk with Christ as an adult.
Continued open doors for God's Word. God opened new opportunities for Bible studies and discipleship this year. Please pray that these will be fruitful and that others may open still.
More computer jobs for me as the Lord guides

Once again we can't express enough our thanks to those of you who have shown your love to us
through your prayers and support. And may our good Lord give you the grace and strength you need for the challenges you are facing in your walk and service for Him today.

Your co-laborers in His kingdom,

Renan & Anna

Gr8!

2009-10-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Lord for a great day, a great week, a great month, a great year. I could go on and on because we have a Great God! When I'm weak and weary, He gives me strength each day. This month He gave me a few computers to work on and all were fixed with His help, though there's a couple that needs to be done. Thank you Lord for broken computers and for Your help fixing them. :-) I remember how He fixed broken lives of yours and mine and He continues to do so.

At church this morning, we studied 1 Cor. 14, then went off to our outreach w/ the kids in the afternoon. I shared a new song, taught on Jesus being our Good Shepherd. After that, they enjoyed playing w/ clay and had fun playing soccer! Then after we got home, I visited an older brother, he's 68, looks younger and really loves the Lord. He shared a lot and I just listened to him. Before I left, we prayed together and we're both blessed.

Though there were storms that hit our country, God proves to us again that He is in control, He is Lord and King of all. The life that He gave us, our family and friends and everything else for all comes from Him. I'm looking forward for what He wants to do next in each of our lives. We are in the final hour...isn't it exciting? A friend reminded me, "redeem the time bro the night is coming..." What a timely word!

As the song goes, may it be our prayer as well - "Here I am, take me... as an offering, here I am, take me...every heartbeat, for Your glory, take me..."

In Jesus,

Renan

PRAYER REQUESTS:

- Traveling mercies and strength to attend the Luzon regional conference in Baguio (see previous blog) There will be 3 of us. My family will stay behind. Pray for them also.
- Plans to hold a worship night jointly with another church; our church "sharing" meeting Lord-willing next month; a weekly discipleship training in Antipolo
- The house church project - finishing touches, sound equipment, multimedia projector, chairs, etc.
- An early Christmas fellowship for our kids outreach in Tayabas
- On-going project to build computers for pastors and churches in Lucena
- On-going home Bible studies/discipleship

Up-date September 2009

2009-09-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

It's time for an update! "Ber" season is here, meaning the start of the months which ends in "ber". :-)

Last Sunday, I shared on 1 Cor. 10 - God reminded us of what happened formerly to Israel, we were admonished not to follow their example but to please God in every thing we do whether we eat or drink and imitate Christ just as Paul did. We as Christians need to walk as He walked because we leave a mark or stamp for others to follow. And it's only by the grace of God we can do that. Thank God for His grace working in us and through us!

FAMILY & MINISTRY UPDATE

Please pray for God's wisdom and provision as we prepare for our eldest daughter Inna. She will be entering senior high school next year, Lordwilling. We plan to put her to regular school here in Lucena and apply for college in Manila. She'll be taking the UP College Admission Test (UPCAT) and hopefully for her to pursue medical studies. Yes, she wants to be a doctor someday! God knows, we have nothing, but in Him, we have everything. We'll see what God will do. So, we REALLY covet your prayers!

Jun-Jun (red T) like Andrew, brings his close peers to our discipleship class.

The Lord continues to seek and save the lost. In the past 2 weeks, we had 8 people who prayed to receive Christ as their Lord and Savior. Pray for the on-going discipleship and home Bible studies every week.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

We want to express our heartfelt thanks for your prayers, along with the couple, Mr. & Mrs. Rolly & Ma. Fe Aben. The house looks great and in a month's time, their family will move there, God-willing. Please continue to pray for God's blessing to finish the project - tiled floors, painted walls, electricity & water supply, etc. The family is letting the church to use a part of their house for our Sunday service.

BAGUIO CONFERENCE

The 4th Calvary Chapel Northern Pastors & Workers conference will be in Baguio City this coming October 29-31, 2009. Pray for provision (P900 registration & P1500 transportation per pax) at least 12 people from the church express their desire to come and for traveling mercies (see map).

12 hr bus ride - weeeeh!

Please pray for me, I'll be sharing in one of the sessions and maybe lead worship.

Our conference theme will be : "The Ministry According To Jesus” - A study in the Book of John 13-17.

We appreciate your prayers. Thank you for your partnership!

If you desire to help and support the ministry, please drop us an e-mail.

His Love compels us,

Renan & Anna

PS - Our printer needs to be converted to continuous ink system - P3500 or $73, we need it for our new tracts and for the kids' outreach.

ANSWERED PRAYER: Praise the Lord! The ink system has been installed on the printer. \0/

Up-date August 2009

2009-08-15T01:21:00.001-07:00

Hello dear friends! Thanks for dropping by and taking time to read our blog.

It is always good to start off this blog by saying, "Thank you Jesus! You are so great!" God is doing great things here in the city of Lucena, Quezon province, Philippines.

First, the construction project is on-going. The house/lot is owned by a family and they wanted to dedicate part of it to be used to hold our church service. Thank God for touching the project engineer, Ptr. Romy Tena, for starting to work on the project even though the housing loan has not been released yet. A representative from the PAG-IBIG Fund has already visited the site and gathered some data for submission and then the loan will be released. Please pray it will be released on time and also for the water application be processed likewise.

There is still work to be done just like what God is doing in our lives. We are still "under construction" but soon we'll be gathered completely with Him.

Secondly, God continues to save people and makes them grow. We have a married couple who just got saved and they're hungry to be taught by God's Word. We also have an on-going discipleship/Home BS with a few believers and they are looking forward to their baptism in the near future. If God allows, maybe on the church blessing/thanksgiving day. :-D

2 Timothy 2:2

Thirdly, there's a group wanting to do an outreach here with us. Please pray for God's hand on this. May God's love be seen and heard through the sharing of the gospel.

These are all answered prayers from the Lord. We are grateful for this many opportunities He has given all of us and you are part of God's work here as you support in prayers and kindest acts.

Thank you for praying with us and all the glory belongs to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit! Amen.

Other Prayer Requests:

Joshua 24:15b

For our kids' homeschooling - Lord-willing, next year, we'll send Inna to regular school on her road to college with the Lord and to prepare her for college entrance test/s. She'll be senior HS next school year.

For our personal walk, individually and as a family, family devotions, the ministry that God has entrusted to us.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Nowadays, with 100 pesos, we can spend it with:

- 5 days of cellphone load if you do all text messages or worth a cellphone call card
- 2 cups of best coffee in Manila, 1 cup if at Starbucks-add more pesos
- A combo value meal for two at a fastfood chain
- Fare for a college student commuting from-to Antipolo

In missions/church planting work here in Lucena, your 100 pesos could be used for:

- 5 weeks jeepney fare to one of our weekly home Bible study (P20/person-2 way)
- getting 4 Tagalog Bibles (New Testament)
- getting 1 Tagalog Bible (Old & New), add 20 pesos to get 2 Bibles
- buying a box of pencils or crayons used in our children's outreach every Sunday
- photocopying 200 pages of coloring pages and puzzles for the kids outreach
- feeding snacks to 10 kids, P10/child
- jeepney/tricycle fare going to church for 3-5 people willing to attend but can't really afford

What do you think?

-by Ptr Renan of Calvary Chapel Lucena City

"Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account...They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God." - Phil. 4:17,18b

With a thankful heart for the abounding grace God has given us, let us therefore look beyond ourselves and rejoice with grateful returns in seeing that others will be made happy and giving praises to God. =D

Prayer

2009-07-24T04:17:00.000-07:00

Updated pictures of the construction site - as of July 29, 2009

"O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name." -Nehemiah 1:11a

This house under construction is situated on a 127 sq.m. lot - Rolito & Ma. Fe Aben is asking for your prayers - for guidance, wisdom, provision to complete the project. For Ptr. Romy Tena, the one supervising the construction.

Front wall needs to be removed, awaiting intervention from city engineer.

Their family will move here upon completion and God-willing, future home of CC Lucena ;-)

Thanks for your prayers! More updates to come on this blog. Blessings to you and your family!

A fellow fisher of men

2009-07-11T05:15:00.001-07:00

Senen, the blue marlin and the call of God

Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." (Luke 5:10b/NIV)

I recently met in a seminar, a fisherman here in the province of Quezon named Senen, he shared this wonderful story:

Senen learned fishing as early as 8. Later he became a Christian and he felt that God is calling him to be a pastor. He has a big family to support, to begin with, that's why he had doubts. Also, he sees their church pastor having a hard time providing for his family.

Then one day, while fishing for sharks and blue marlins, along with his brother, his bait caught one, big, heavy fish---a blue marlin. As it struck his bait, because of its size, he held on to the line, the marlin fought hard, pulling him and dragging him as it swam away from the boat.

He was afraid and prayed, "God if you save my life, I will go and serve you..." Immediately the fish pulled him upwards and he swam towards the boat. He even managed to pull it, with the line tangled in his hands and was able to land the 330-pound marlin.

After this experience, he left his fishing business and followed God's calling for him to be a pastor.
Now he is the one pastoring the church in their hometown and the Lord is faithfully providing for his family.

w/ Senen

Up-date July 2009

2009-07-01T19:55:00.001-07:00

Grandma's Visit

We're so blessed, my wife's wonderful mom is here with us for a short visit. Ever since, we call her "Nanay", mom in Filipino and not "Lola", short for grandmother. She's here for her grand kids' (Chin-Chin and Caleb) birthdays. Pray for her salvation, she attended our Sunday service for 2 weeks in a row.

Chin-Chin @11

Caleb @13

Nanay, Anna, Chin-Chin & Inna.

Continuing in God's Word

Last Sunday, we just finished the book of Romans. We started it January this year and we closed chapter 16 with a praise just as apostle Paul ended his letter:

"to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen." (Romans 16:27)

Lord-willing, we'll continue on to the next book - 1 Corinthians.

After the worship service.

Home Bible study @ Tayabas

Our new missionary friends

Prayer Requests

"I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me." (Romans 15:30)

Spiritual and physical health
Homeschooling - wisdom, preparation for college
Evangelism outreach on July 25 (Sat) and follow-up afterwards

This was moved next month in August. God is preparing those souls :-)

Sydney youth team visit to the Philippines, if God allows

Moved to end of 2010. God's timing is always perfect. :-)

A missionary couple - also planning a short visit, God-willing
Weekly home Bible studies
Children's ministry in Tayabas
More to follow...

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Up-date June 2009

2009-05-31T21:06:00.000-07:00

"Be joyful in hope, patient in afflication, faithful in prayer" (Romans 12:12/NIV)

Homefront - Still preparing for our homeschool which starts this month. Inna will be in 3rd yr., Kydel -1st yr. and Chin - Grade 5. My wife and I covet your prayers.

New church schedule - Starting June 7, our Sunday morning worship will be @ 8AM. We are currently studying the book of Romans ch. 13.

Discipleship/Home BS - We're praying that 3 women (Ate Tess, Ate Mafe and Joyce) would start a 1-on-1 discipleship with other women in the church aside from the weekly home BS.

Mini-Olympics - Though our team lost in the ball games, my son Caleb won the chess tournament 9-12 age category! Glory to God! He played 5 games and only lost once. He's just a beginner but it was worth winning the championship. Of course, we had lots of fun and fellowship. The games were held at the Enverga University covered gym last May 25-28.

Opening ceremony.

Our team in action!

Our volleyball game.

Official scorer.

The basketball committee.

Caleb w/ his trophy.

Chess championship.

Ptr Joe, the former Vice-Mayor Don Alcala, Caleb, Ptr. Willy & Ptr Ed

Prayer & Support - Your prayers are so much appreciated and we also want to pray for you, let us know how. Please pray with us for the Lord continue to show us His ways in what He has given us to do (family, church-planting, outreach, tentmaking, etc.) and trust in Him.

Blessings,

Renan

Up-date May 2009

2009-05-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

*For he says to Moses, "I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion." It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy.* (Romans 9:15-16/NIV)

Last Sunday, we studied Romans 9 - how awesome it is to be chosen by God - not because of anything we have done but only because of His mercy! "With great privilege comes great responsibility"-to let other people know they can also be part of God's family, to be with Him forever!

A BLESSED VISIT - We're privileged to have Ptr. Matt & DeAnna Valencia, minister and share with us at our Sunday service and children's outreach.

Lunch together w/ Ptr Matt & DeAnna after service

A BLESSED CONFERENCE - This time my wife joined me, Praise God for His provision. It was a tremendous time of teaching, worship and fellowship. "Releasing God's Power" was the theme, 1 Cor. 12-14. Oh how we need those times of refreshing and watering of God's Word and His Spirit!

On the plane to Dumaguete w/ my lovely wife, Anna

From the airport to Gateway mall w/ Ptr Julius & Laila.

A BLESSED SUMMER - I'm blessed to fellowship with other pastors in Lucena. This May 25-28, we're going to hold our annual mini-olympics within the church community. I'll be joining other local churches as a team to play and have fun with other churches playing basketball, volleyball, table tennis, cheerleading, darts, chess, badminton, etc.

Appreciation for pastors sponsored by Gideons

PRAYER REQUESTS:

Family health
Homeschool preparation, provision for the coming school year
2 Home Bible studies/discipleship + 1 New Home BS - pray for Jun-Jun, Reynante, Acel; Melodie, Bobboy, Laika; Myra, Dante, Abigail (New)
Children's ministry and outreach - provision also for their studies - some of them work this summer
Spiritual maturity of the church, more workers.
"Prayer walk" - my wife and I as we pray around our neighborhood.
Vision for a children's ministry and student center; radio ministry
Our printer to be fixed, more people to have their computers fixed ;-)
More love, more power! Maranatha, Lord Jesus!

Prayer is so vital and we really appreciate your prayers and support.

For your generous support, kindly reply to this e-mail or call/text me @ +63919.855.3475.

In His Sovereign Mercy,

Renan

Simply Living-Trusting-Loving----*In Him, we live, move and have our being...Trust in God, Trust also in Me...if I don't have love, I am nothing* (Acts 17:28a; John 14:1; 1 Cor. 13:1-3)

April 2009 Newsletter

2009-04-08T22:14:00.000-07:00

Grace, Mercy and Peace in Christ Jesus!

Kah-mus-tah poh ka-yo, that's in Filipino...how are you?

Just wanted to share what God is doing, hoping you are all doing well esp. in your relationship with the Lord.

Homeschool Graduation (see previous blog)
Church/Ministry Updates
Prayer Updates

Glory to God!

Encouraging visit - Ptr. Dave Matthews came March 29 and taught Sunday morning. Richele also came to help us distribute the shoebox gifts.

Samaritan Purse - The Sunday school and kids' outreach in Tayabas were surprised and were so grateful when they opened their shoebox gifts. Though some were speechless, we knew they felt happy inside.

147 Training Workshop - 37 pastors and church workers graduated from this 8-week training presenting useful tools for evangelism and discipleship. Each of us received an audio Bible called the "Proclaimer" which can play the New Testament in Tagalog.

Looking forward to be blessed - On April 26th Sunday, Matt Valencia & his wife DeAnna will be here to teach, encourage and fellowship with us. Pastor Matt is one of the speakers at the pastors' conference in Dumaguete from April 21-24. He is Senior Pastor Calvary Chapel Gilroy, CA.

We covet your prayers!

Passion week - Many return to their respective hometowns and as I write this newsletter, the gospel will be shared to the family/relatives and neighbors. Pray for openness and boldness in sharing.
Pastors' Conference - Lord-willing, my wife and I will attend in Dumaguete on April 21-24. Pray for protection for our kids, provision for the registration/transportation and traveling mercies.
House church - a family here wants to share their home for church use, pray for the building plans, PAG-IBIG fund application, etc.
Two children's outreach - this is one of the areas where God wants us to persevere since some of the kids are now teenagers. The main group comes from the church neighborhood. The other group of kids live in a poor, remote village outside Lucena.
Two home Bible studies - a family of three (Bobboy, Melodie & Lyka) and a jeepney driver named Jun-Jun and her girlfriend, Acel.
Still in prayer for a continuous ink system for our printer, mini-computer shop, part-time job at a nearby Christian school.
Fruitfulness in the ministry -- for the empowering of God's Spirit, and for the transformation of many lives.
Personal strength - constant physical and spiritual strengthening, quality time with my wife and kids, tentmaking, fellowship with other local pastors, etc.

Ma-ra-ming Sa-la-mat po sa in-yong pa-na-la-ngin! in Tagalog. Thank you all so much for praying!

We thank each of you as you give your whole lives giving to the Lord.

For your generous support, kindly reply to this e-mail or call/text me @ +63919.855.3475.

In His Amazing Love,

Renan

2009 Homeschool Graduation

2009-03-26T23:31:00.000-07:00

Graduation speech of our only son, Kydel Caleb:

Honoured guests, families, and fellow homeschoolers:

Congratulations to us graduates!!!

I am really blessed to speak to you in this momentous day I will like to share you this verse from Nehemiah 6:16b:

"...this work has been done with HELP of our God"

God is our strength to help us finish our studies.

In Philippians 4:13--- "I can do ANYTHING through Him who gives me strength"

Truly God is my help that is why I'm here, without God I am nothing, Through all my struggles in my subjects, He is always there to give me wisdom and strength to persevere.

And now I want to thank the people who helped me, encouraged me in my hardships, I thank my Mom and my Dad, encouraging me to trust in the Lord, and training me to become a better person to bring glory to our God!

May our Lord Jesus Christ ... encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word!

God bless you all and thank you!

CC Homeschoolers

the graduates...

w/ our eldest daughter, Inna

w/ our youngest daughter, Chin-chin

entering freshman HS next school year

Up-date March 2009

2009-03-15T22:36:00.000-07:00

Our God is Faithful!

BACOLOD TRIP - Praise God! for a wonderful trip to Bacolod City last March 10-12. It was Inna's 1st plane ride and our 1st visit there. The plane landed 10am at the new Silay airport and Tatay Joe Rosmarino was there to pick us up then we accompanied him for errands and a tour around the city. By lunchtime, we got to CC Bacolod and we were welcomed by 150 Calvary Kids, big & little R's, with their smiles and songs. The next day was the Nat'l Achievement Test (NAT). Inna took the test with 2 other sophomores. We enjoyed our fellowship esp. playing with the kids.

On the plane.

In our room.

Before the exam w/ the Principal.

After the exam.

w/ Israel.

At a prayer meeting.

1 Tim. 4:7 seminar w/ local pastors and workers

TAYABAS KIDS' OUTREACH - Praise God! Though they live far from the city, these kids continue to come and hear God's Word. Some of them invite their friends in the neighborhood. Praying for their parents and relatives, they also need Jesus.

Tayabas kids' outreach - "Let the children come to Me..."

PRAYER REQUEST/S:
1. March 25 - Graduation/Recognition Day of Homeschoolers. Our son, Kydel Caleb will graduate from Grade 6 - provision and traveling mercies.
2. April 21-24 - Pastors Conference in Dumaguete - My wife and I will attend, God-willing. Provision and protection for us and our kids, grandma's visit this summer.
3. Kids' outreach in Tayabas and Sunday School kids - Operation Christmas Child, Vacation Bible School, wisdom and strength for teachers/volunteers.
4. Salvation and spiritual growth - those attending the weekly home Bible studies (Wed/Thur)
5. Continuous ink system for our printer.
6. God's will regarding interested groups visiting this year.

Up-date February 2009

2009-02-15T23:06:00.000-08:00

Time for an update! God is good! May our lives be a pleasing aroma to the LORD!

WE'VE MOVED to a 2-bedroom apartment just a few houses away from the church last February 1st.

Our new home address is---

2/F Cadiz Apartment #5
3rd Street, Phase I, Pleasantville Subd.
ILAYANG IYAM, Lucena City 4301 PHILIPPINES

SAME, SAME - We're still holding our weekly meetings at the same facility. We're currently studying the book of Romans - a romantic book! :-) The owner allowed us to use it for prayer meetings and worship services.

INNA'S EXAM - Lord-willing, me and my daughter, Inna are going to Manila then fly to Bacolod this coming March 10th for the National Achievement Test. God has provided for the plane tickets, we trust Him for the remaining expenses for the trip. Pray for God's protection and wisdom for the exam.

TRAININGS - I've attended a whole day Pastors' Conference last January 31st at VCF-Lucena. The theme is "Knowing, Growing and Going - a Spiritual Transformation". The guest speaker was Ptr. Cal Samuels along with his Filipino team of Trellis Community Church based in Temecula, California.

I'm currently attending a workshop along with some pastors and outreach leaders called "147 Training" (from 1 Tim.4:7) This will be in 8 weekly sessions which started Feb.10, every 2pm-4pm here in Lucena.

BonuS FROM GOD - Pray for our weekly home Bible study at Brgy. Calumpang every Wednesdays, 8am, attended by Jun-jun and Reynante. Jun-jun & his girlfriend Acel has been attending the Sunday service.

Praise God for opening another home BS every Thursday @ 7pm.

FUN W/ KIDS - Pray for our children's outreach in Tayabas (12 kms. away from the church) every Sunday afternoon, around 30+ kids are attending.

MORE FELLOWSHIP - I'm enjoying the "koinonia" with other local pastors here and joined their association. Once a month we gather for worship, devotion, praying for one another and of course, food fellowship. LOL :-)

MISSIONS TRIP - Pray for 3-4 interested groups planning for a visit this year to minister and be exposed in missions work.

By God's grace,

Renan & Anna Mangonon

Grateful and Confident

2009-01-06T19:16:00.000-08:00

A Blessed New Year to all!

It's always good to reflect on a few verses from the Bible:

Psalm 27:13
I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.

Philippians 1:6
being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

We thank God for sustaining us in 2008 and we know it will be fine in 2009. Though there are speculations of economic meltdowns, our God will continue to not let us down.

Looking forward to our Blessed Hope, the coming of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Wishing you all of God's best for you this new year!

Happy Birthday King Jesus!

2008-12-22T20:24:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

We had a Christ-filled, joyous celebration of our Saviour's birth last Sunday, Dec. 21. A Blessed Christmas to you and your family!

Praise God for our youth who made this birthday banner

Not the Christmas manger scene!

By God's grace

CC Lucena family

Yearend Praise

2008-12-07T17:48:00.000-08:00

"THANK YOU, LORD JESUS!"

"Not to us, O LORD, not to us
but to your name be the glory,
because of your love and faithfulness." - Psalm 115:1

As the year 2008 comes to a close, we just want to say, "Thank you, JLord Jesus!" We can't thank Him enough for what He has done and continuously doing in our lives. How He carried us through all the joys and heartaches, it's comforting to know that He is always there and will bring us to another year of knowing, loving and serving Him. I agree to what the apostle Paul said, "But I have had God's help to this very day..." (Acts 26:22a).

Some major things we are grateful for:

- My wife and I celebrated our 15th year wedding anniversary last Dec.4
- For our kids - health and protection
- We're "buhay pa" (still alive) :-)
- The Lord blessed our simple Christmas program for the kids' outreach in Tayabas last Dec.7
- You! Our friends and family - your prayers and encouragement to us

Have a meaningful and blessed Christmas!

By His Grace,

Renan

Taken last December 7, 2008 Christmas Party at Brgy. Tayabas outreach

Prayer and Praise

2008-11-21T05:42:00.000-08:00

For By His Grace Fellowship
2nd Street Phase I, Pleasantville Subd., Ilayang Iyam
Lucena City, Quezon, Philippines 4301
Mobile: +63919-855-3475

PRAYER & PRAISE UPDATE – NOVEMBER 2008

Psa 33:18-22 "Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he [is] our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name. Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in thee."

PRAISE GOD! I was able to attend the Luzon pastors' & workers' conference in Baguio last month. But before I went there, I received a breaking news--we were asked to move to another facility. Honestly, I was a bit discouraged but I know God has a better plan. I thank God for giving me perseverance and the encouragement I received thru text messages and prayers.

Still looking for a new place
For some who received my quick update, the house for rent was turned down by the owner b'coz of major repairs. We will try to look on a bank foreclosed property and apply for tenancy. Let's see what God will do.

Tentmaking to support my family
From a recent job fair, I almost got one but the assignment is very far from Lucena and requires relocation. Another job offer is in a waiting stage with a gov't agency here in Lucena.

Some Bible studies discontinued
From 5 to 2 per week due to closed hearts and lack of interest, though there is an open door for a new outreach study and 1-1 discipleship. Most of the BS is an outgrowth of being a Volunteer Probation Aide (VPA) at the Parole & Probation Office under the Dept. of Justice. I'm currently assigned to 2-3 probationers for weekly BS and spiritual upliftment. For the last 3 months, I was invited to attend their therapeutic gathering and share God's Word.

Therapeutic Community (TC) monthly meeting at Lucena Alliance Church

Prayer Requests:

May the Lord open up a new house for us to live in and ideal for us to gather for fellowship, provision for the rent or purchase of church property
Family health, provision, homeschooling
Continuous ink system for our printer
Tagalog Bibles
Lordwilling, a simple Christmas program for the children in Tayabas outreach
Wisdom and anointing as I continue with the ministry
Retention in fellowship and faith of those initially showing interest, and those in more distant places to be consistent in attending the main Sunday fellowship.
Spiritual maturity and growth of the believers

Thanks again for all of your love and support.

By His Grace,

Pastors' & Workers' Conference 08

2008-10-31T04:46:00.000-07:00

About 130 people attended the Northern Pastors' and Workers' Conference last Oct. 28-30 at City Garden Conference Center, near a strawberry farm.
The theme of the conference is "Preparing the Bride"

PRAISE JESUS!

For His protection & traveling mercies;
For a refreshing time as we worship and listen to His Word (a study in 1 Thessalonians);
For seeing old friends and meeting new ones;
For giving us food, rest & sleep, and good fellowship;
For His strength & provision;

With Joseph & Tin-Tin

CC Masantol, CC Bustos, CC Manila with workers, CC Naga, CC Paniqui

Justin & Erin

Joseph, Edwin & Fines (center), Rowel with son, Daniel

Mom Nelly, Ezra, Ruth, Mom Karen smiling

At Kennon Road; inside the coaster.

Lordwilling, see you at the next conference!

Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus!

Waiting for our Blessed Hope,

Prayer and Praise

2008-10-05T21:01:00.000-07:00

For By His Grace Fellowship
2nd Street Phase I, Pleasantville Subd., Ilayang Iyam
Lucena City, Quezon, Philippines 4301
Mobile: +63919-855-3475

PRAYER & PRAISE UPDATE – OCTOBER 2008

John 4:35 "Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest."

Mat 9:37-38 "Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest."

PRAISE GOD for souls being added to His church, some of them are now being discipled. The Tagalog Bibles are on their way, we plan to get them from Manila Lordwilling soon.

PRAISE GOD, we have a new volunteer to minister to the toddlers and kids in our Sunday School.

PRAY for travelling mercies, wisdom and provision for the upcoming Luzon pastors' and workers' conference in Baguio City on October 28-30.

PRAISE GOD for opportunities to share the gospel and teach the Word. We are now in Acts 20 on Sunday and Psalm 34 on our Friday prayer meeting.

PRAISE GOD for the weekly Bibles studies-- The Monday BS is doing well; we are now in John 4. Every Tuesday, we are welcomed by kids excited to hear the Word. PRAY for openness to the gospel and the hearts that are open. The Thursday BS was turned-over to the host's local pastor.

PRAISE GOD, 2 mothers accepted Christ and a Wednesday BS is opened for them. PRAISE GOD, He opened another BS every Friday attended by probationers who came to know the Lord. PRAY for their spiritual growth and the discipleship/follow-up. Lastly, I ride my bicycle every morning and share the gospel to an 84-yr old woman who prays the rosary, worships the archangels yet she is open to hear the Word. PRAY for her salvation.

PRAY for requests by 2 families to start a Home Bible study located on the outskirts of Lucena City, for wisdom and transportation.

PRAISE GOD, her husband stopped the beatings but her daily necessities are being withheld from her. (PRAY for a lady in our church, a new believer who was a former Mormon, she becomes a punching bag when her husband gets drunk. She already reported this to the authorities.)

PRAY for wisdom and fresh move of His Spirit -- our kids' homeschooling, housing, family health and provision.

We appreciate your prayers and support. God bless you!

By His Grace,

After service...

Prayer and Praise

2008-09-08T23:39:00.001-07:00

For By His Grace Fellowship
2nd Street Phase I, Pleasantville Subd., Ilayang Iyam
Lucena City, Quezon, Philippines 4301
Mobile: +63919-855-3475

I Cor. 3:7 "So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."

PRAY for the 4 weekly Bible studies, salvation for those attending, spiritual growth, spiritual warfare. PRAISE GOD, some of them are now attending our Sunday service. PRAY for the 2 ladies who assists us in the ministry - they are the "Andrew" and "Timothy"..PRAY we could give Tagalog Bibles for those attending the weekly BS and for the kids' outreach in Tayabas; perseverance in teaching the kids. J

PRAISE GOD, an old lady asked and prayed to receive Christ after our study in John 3. Last week, a mother and 4 kids also prayed to receive Christ. PRAY for their spiritual growth and for follow-up.

PRAY for a lady in our church, a new believer who was a former Mormon, she becomes a punching bag when her husband gets drunk. She already reported this to the authorities.

PRAY for our kids' homeschooling. Inna will turn 14 this month, she's in sophomore HS. Kydel is 12, in Grade 6 and Chin-Chin at 10 in Grade 4. They serve in the church--arranging the chairs, operating the projector; Kydel plays the drums with me during worship.

PRAY for a continuous ink system for our printer which is cheaper in the long run than ink refills/original ink.

PRAY for my wife - she started making peanut butter, Polvoron & other delicacies aside from my mini-computer repair & services. I am still open if God wants me to start a mini-cyber cafe (3 to 5 computers).

PRAY in God’s timing, move my family to a place where our teens have their own room. (We’re staying in the church for 8 months now to maximize rental space.)

We appreciate your prayers and support. God bless you!

By His Grace,

Support Info:
(US) - Thru the kindness of Calvary Chapel - Manila (our home church)

(Local)
Acct. Name: Renan R. Mangonon
SMARTMONEY Acct.# 5577 5191 0321 8112
M.COM# 8001 1739 9488
Mobile#: 0919 855 3475 thru any SMART WIRELESS CENTER/SMART PADALA

Koinonia

2008-09-08T23:15:00.000-07:00

"All the believers were together and had everything in common...They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts." Acts 2:44, 46b

Sheryl, Ate Flora, Ate Mafe & Ate Tess pose after prayer.

Eating time...

Don & Sheryl, Ate Rachelle (middle)

Vanilla

2008-09-08T23:01:00.000-07:00

"I'm a guinea pig. I don't have a name yet 'coz my owners think I'm a hamster." LOL

This is Vanilla's father. He's going to be a father again, soon.

We met the pet owners and told them we are fond of guinea pigs. When we were in Bicol, we had Baccy and Beryl but they both died there. So they described their pet to us and we told them, they're guinea pigs. Funny they call them "hamsters".

One day, Mrs. Hamster...ooops, Mrs. Guinea Pig gave birth to a healthy piglet. After a few weeks, we brought him home and named him "Vanilla".

Since it was almost 2 years we had guinea pigs, when the kids touched Vanilla, they got allergies. Eww!

Father & son bond together before we bring him home.

"Grass is my staple food, right Dad?" -Vanilla

"You need to eat, son. It will be a long journey." -Dad

"Take a nap before you go." -Mom

My first solo picture.

"I'm home at last." -Vanilla

Fun with Pets

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This is Penelope our neighbor's puppy, she is just a week old. She's very sleepy If only I can sleep beside her.

"Shhh...she's trying to rest." Actually, resting in peace. She died after a few days. Whaa!!!

After Penelope died, we got another pet...his name is Vanilla.

Family Pictures

2008-09-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

Kydel & Inna, after a Bible study in Citta Grande

Chin & Kydel w/ Dad

Ate Rachelle, Anna, Chin, Ate Mafe, Bill, Kydel & Inna - Mt. Banahaw view

Kydel, Inna, Bill, Chin, Anna, Ate Mafe, Ate Rachelle - Pacific mall view

Mom & Chin

Fun with Kids

2008-08-23T01:45:00.000-07:00

"Mind you own papers"

"We're not that serious."

Puzzles, puzzles.

Fun with puzzles.

Outside playing, waiting for the gate to open.

By the playground

Worship time!!!

Time to listen! See the rod of discipline? :-)

"We're not camera-shy"

Playing and being with kids will make you look younger, that's true. That's why, I'm the one taking these shots. :-)

Every Sunday at 3:00pm, the kids from Tayabas joyfully wait for our arrival. We share to them the life of Jesus through the Gospels. One thing they enjoy the most is doing word search puzzles and coloring pages taken from the Bible text. They also love singing praise and worship songs, doing memory verses. Sometimes, we do film showings. Of course, the best part is snack time. The sad part is saying "goodbye". Though it's tiring sometimes, it's worth seeing them, listening and playing with them. After all, they really make you look younger. Come and visit us sometime, in God's time. To God alone be the Glory!

BonuSes from God

2008-08-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

Last June 29, a lady came to our church with one of our members, she was a Mormon. B'coz of what her husband is doing to her, she was in tears and asked for counsel. We prayed and shared to her and that night she received Jesus as her personal Lord and Saviour. Her countenance changed and her life was never been the same. When she got home, her hatred was changed into love and compassion. After that, she attends one of the 4 home Bible Studies God opened in a week. Praise God for these opportunities to share and study God's Word. Though spiritual battles are inevitable, God is Sovereign. We are confident that "He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it." Our relationship with our Shepherd and Saviour is more than enough, these are all His bonuses.

BonuS # 1 - The Lavarro Family

Place: Purok Maganda, Gulang-Gulang, Lucena City
Time: 6:30PM Thursdays - Romans

BonuS # 2 - Kuya Carling

Place: 3rd Street Phase I, Pleasantville Subd., Iyam, Lucena City
Time: 5:00Pm - Mondays - Gospel of John

BonuS #3 - Ate Marivic

Place: Hermana, Lucena City
Time: 6:00Pm - Tuesday - Gospel of John

BonuS #4 - Lola Lourdes

Place: Jael Subd., Iyam, Lucena City
Time: 4:00Pm - Wednesdays - Gospel of John

Coming Soon!

2008-08-06T20:44:00.000-07:00

What's happening in our venture in faith here in Lucena City, Quezon, Philippines will soon be posted here! See you soon...