On Sunday, March 22nd, our partners in the Philippines celebrated their two-year anniversary of ministry in their new location. The dedicated facility is a long way from where this ministry started—in the garage of Pastor Roly and his wife, Anita. Today, we have the privilege to stand in spirit with our brothers and sisters as they celebrate the second anniversary of Jesus Our Firm Foundation Cay Pombo Brethren Church. This is a milestone marked not just by the passage of time, but by a profound depth of faith refined by fire.

The past two years have been a testament to God’s goodness and refuge. For Pastor Roly, this season of ministry has been personal and bittersweet. Having lost his beloved wife, Anita, to cancer in January, his continued faithfulness is a living testimony to his congregation. Even in the shadow of grief, Pastor Roly remains steadfast in service, embodying the truth that when Christ is our foundation, we cannot be shaken.

Recognizing the weight of this season, Reverend Gary Castro, the Executive Director of the Brethren Church in the Philippines, along with regional elders and leaders, came alongside the Cay Pombo congregation to offer communal strength during the celebration. Together, they lifted up the church, offering prayers of consecration and words of encouragement. They celebrated the genuine faith described in 1 Peter 1:7—a faith that has been tested by fire and is of greater worth than gold.

As this location of Jesus Our Firm Foundation enters its third year, the mission remains clear: to be a light for God’s glory in the Philippines. We celebrate the strength, the refuge, and the firm foundation God has provided this amazing congregation. Happy 2nd Anniversary, Jesus Our Firm Foundation Cay Pombo Brethren Church. May the fire of the Holy Spirit continue to refine and shine through you.

Respectfully submitted,

Scott Soden
Director of Global Partners and Development