ANO Ang "National Baptist Day" (NBD) ay alinsunod sa Batas Republika Bilang 11897, na nagdedeklarang ang ikalawang Huwebes ng Enero ng bawat taon ay isang Special Working Holiday. Ito ay paggunita sa mga Baptist ng Pilipinas sa kanilang natatanging kontribusyon sa pagbuo ng nasyon, sa pamamagitan ng patuloy na pagpapalaganap ng kanilang 'evangelical mission' at pagpapatayo ng mga eskwelahang nagtuturo ng Bibliya para sa ikabubuti ng lipunan. Ang Pilipinas ang kauna-unahang bansa na kumikilala at nagpapahalaga sa pananampalataya at mga kontribusyon ng mga Baptist sa komunidad. Ngayong ika-12 ng Enero taong 2023, ipinagdiriwang ang ika-123 na taon ng presensya ng mga Baptist sa Pilipinas. PAANO Unang isinumite ni dating Representative at Bishop Bienvenido Abante Jr. ang House Bill No. 6179 noong ika-4 ng Pebrero taong 2020 sa House of Representatives. Noong 2020 din naaprubahan ang una hanggang pangatlong pagbasa at naisampa ang Senate Bill No. 2522 sa Senado. Nitong Mayo 30, 2022 ay natapos at naaprubahan na ang pangatlong pagbasa sa Senado. *Ang unang bersyon na iprinesenta sa House of Representative ay nagsasaad na Enero 16 ang petsang ilalaan para sa National Baptist Day kumpara sa bersyon sa Senado kung saan ito ay ginawang tuwing ikalawang Huwebes ng Enero. Sa wakas, ito'y naging batas noong Hulyo 23, 2022, hudyat ng opisyal na pagkilala ng gobyerno sa komunidad ng mga Baptist sa Pilipinas. SINO Ang "Pananampalatayang Baptist" sa Pilipinas ay pinaniniwalaang nagsimula sa isang Ilonggo na nagngangalang Braulio Manikan. Nagsimula ang kaalaman niya sa katotohanan ng Bibliya noong siya'y labindalawang taong gulang dahil sa isang ipinuslit na Bibliya ng kanilang dating kasambahay. Noong nagpunta siya ng Espanya upang mag-aral ng kursong Engineering, siya ay tuluyan na ring naging isang Baptist sa prinsipyo at pananampalataya. Mayo ng taong 1900, bumalik si Manikan sa Pilipinas kasama ang kanyang kaibigang Swedish National na si Eric Lund. Sila'y nagtayo ng isang mission na pinangalanang "Jaro Evangelical Church”, sa Jaro, Iloilo noong Setyembre ng taon ding iyon. Ito ang kinikilalang unang simbahang Baptist sa Pilipinas. Sa kanilang pamamahayag ng ebanghelyo ng Panginoong Hesukristo, kumalat ang Pananampalatayang Baptist sa Iloilo. Sa kabila-kabilang hirap at hamon na kanilang kinaharap, purihin ang Diyos at nagpatuloy ang paglaganap ng pananampalataya dahil na rin sa pagpapadala ng mas marami pang misyonerong Baptist galing Estados Unidos nang makita nila ang gawain sa Visayas. Nag-umpisa ang gawain sa Metro Manila noong 1928. At mula doon, nagkaroon din ng mga Pilipinong misyonero na nakapagtayo ng mga simbahan mula sa mga probinsya ng Luzon, Visayas, hanggang Mindanao. Umusbong ang iba't ibang "fellowship" na patuloy na nagpapalaganap ng ebanghelyo at ng Pananampalatayang Baptist. Mula pa sa kapanahunan ni Barulio Manikan hanggang sa kasalukuyan, naging sangkot ang mga Baptist sa pagpapaunlad at pagpapatibay ng komunidad. Ang pagpapatayo ng mga paaralan, mga dormitoryo at mga hospital, kasama na rin ang pagpapalago ng mga hanapbuhay, at pagsuporta sa mga indibidwal na maabot ang kanilang mga propesyonal na pangarap, lahat ng ito ay kasama sa paglilingkod sa komunidad, bayan, at bansa ng mga 'Bible Believing Baptist'. SAAN Ginanap ang unang pagtitipon ng mga Baptist, sa pangunguna ni Bishop Benny Abante Jr., noong ika-16 ng Enero taong 2020 sa SMX Convention Center, Pasay City kasabay ng pagdiriwang ng ika-120 na taon ng presensya ng mga simbahang Baptist sa Pilipinas. Bago ang taong 2020, naging layunin ni Bishop Abante na pagbuklurin ang mga simbahang Baptist sa Bansa. Ang mga simbahang Baptist ay kilala sa pagiging “autonomous” o pagkakaroon ng kalayaan sa pagpapalago ng sariling minesteryo at gawain. Dahil dito, may pagkakanya-kanya at pagkakagrupo-grupo ang bawat isa sa kabila ng paniniwala sa iisang doktrina at pagkakaroon ng iisang Diyos na sinasamba. Kaya naman naisipan ni Bishop Abante na magkaroon pagkakaisa ang bawat simbahang baptist sa Pilipinas kung saan ang itinuturing na unang hakbang ay ang pagsulong ng National Baptist Day. Ngayong ipinagdiriwang ang ika-123 na taon, nagkaroon ng unang pagtitipon ang mga Baptist sa San Fernando, Pampanga noong Enero 8, 2023 sa pangunguna ng Independent Baptist Mission for Asians (IBMA). Nagkaroon din ng ‘Kick-Off Fellowship’ nitong Enero 9, 2023 sa Lighthouse BBC, Tatalon. At muling gugunitain ng pormal ang National Baptist Day sa Metropolitan Bible Baptist Ekklesia sa Sta. Ana, Manila noong Enero 12, 2023. BAKIT Ang mandato ng bawat Kristiyano ay hindi lamang palaguin ang relasyon sa Panginoon ngunit habang lumalalim at lumalaki ang pag-ibig at pananampalataya sa Panginoon, ganoon din ang paglalim, pag-unawa at pagpapakita ng pag-ibig ng Panginoon sa kapwa, lalo na sa mga tao sa labas ng simbahan. Ang National Baptist Day ay pagpapatunay na ginawa ng mga naunang Baptist ang kanilang obligasyon bilang mabubuting mamamayan ng Pilipinas habang tapat na naglilingkod sa Diyos; na ang mga ministeryong itinayo sa mga komunidad ay may malaking dulot sa pagbabago. Ang pagkakakilanlan ng mga Baptist ay nakabatay sa Diyos. Sa tulong ng National Baptist Day, mas lalong maipapamalas sa mundo ang tamang doktrina at pananampalataya. Dahil sa pagkakakilanlan na ito, nahihikayat ang bawat mananampalataya sa buong bansa na masabayan at makamit ang inaasahan sa bawat indibidwal na Baptist sa gawa at salita. Ang malinaw na pagkilala ng lipunan sa mga Baptist ay isang hudyat at pag-uudyok sa bawat isa na kumilos at patuloy na ipalaganap ang tamang ebanghelyo ni Hesukristo at sundin ang “Great Commission” upang maabot ng salita ng Diyos ang bawat tao ng Pilipinas. /isinulat ni: Jenzhel Sanchez /inilathala ni: Em Gacad Mga Sanggunian:
Parreño, A. (2020, January 19). On the 120th Year of the Philippine Baptists. The Philippine Star. https://www.pressreader.com/philippines/the-philippine-star/20200119/281685436800547 Lopos, B. E., et al. (2022, June 12). Lighthouse Prism, Vol. 3. Issue 3, 1-10.
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As the year is about to end, let us look back at our journey as a church this 2022 and be reminded of God's goodness. Let us hope and pray for a prosperous and an abundant 2023 as God blesses us with another year together.
To God be all the glory! /video by Em Gacad /photos compiled by Tin Pervera On December 18, 2022, the Gospel Bible Baptist Church Ensemble graced the church and its guests with a meaningful concert to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Why do we celebrate Christmas? Before the GBBC Ensemble serenaded their audience, Pastor Godwyn shared a short message about celebrating Christmas. Christmas is usually celebrated by putting up Christmas decorations, buying presents, and getting together with friends and families. However, people tend to forget the true reason why we celebrate this occasion. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. The significance of Christmas: 1. It is the fulfillment of prophecy. The birth of Jesus Christ was prophesied in the Old Testament. His birth in the form of a man is the fulfillment of this prophecy. This reminds us that our God is powerful and keeper of His vows. 2. It reminds us of God's love. The first phrase of John 3:16 describes how great God’s love for us – because He loves the world, He gave His only begotten Son. God showed His love when He called us His children and in turn, we call Him as our Lord and savior. 3. It reminds us of God’s greatest gift and promise. The greatest gift that we received is our salvation through our Lord, Jesus Christ. His death on the cross is the fulfillment of God’s promise of saving us from fires of hell. Without Christ’s birth, His promise will not be fulfilled. We celebrate Christmas because our Lord is alive and powerful. Through Him, we are given hope to have a new life and experience salvation. GBBC Ensemble presents… Through their God given talents, the ensemble showcased several Christmas hymns, narrating the story of Jesus Christ’s birth, His power and creation, His love towards men and giving praise to His name. Part 1. Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ The ensemble performed Carol of the Bells, How Great Our Joy, Christmas Blessing, He gave the Greatest Gift of All and Angels We Have Heard on High to tell us that Jesus Christ was born and given unto us. We should celebrate the birth of our Lord and be awe in His glory for He gave us a new life to live. Part 2. Recognizing His power and wonderful creation The audience was then reminded of God’s power through the ensemble’s rendition of God of Wonders and Then Sings My Soul How Great Thou Art . From those that are in heaven and in the earth, God had wonderfully orchestrated these marvelous creations for us to receive and share His overflowing love. The string ensemble then filled the church with the melodies of The First Noel and O Come All Ye Faithful as part of their intermission number. Part 3. Reflecting on His overflowing love towards us As children of God, we must reflect on His promise that He will give us hope no matter what we go through on our journey. His love is enough to clean all wounds, restore our souls and uplift our spirits. His love and majesty were celebrated through the ensemble’s performances of How Can I Keep from Singing and The Majesty and Glory of Your Name. Part 4. Giving praise to His name To conclude the celebration, the ensemble gave their powerful piece of The Light of a Million Mornings and More than Wonderful. These songs reminded us that we must praise the Lord for He is good and faithful. We must show the world His marvelous works and power over us all. This Christmas, let us remember that Christ is the reason for this season. He was born, served as a man and died, to give us the greatest gift of all – our salvation. Led by Shimeah Aguinaldo, the Ensemble’s conductor and directress, the GBBC Ensemble is composed of Ericka Adille, Bea Aguinaldo, Cynthia Dizon, Em Gacad, Rebekah Gayeta, Odessa Maminta, Richelle Maranan, and Fe Suarez (sopranos); Aliyah Aguinaldo, Chloe Aguinaldo, Izzah Aguinaldo, Sophie Aguinaldo, Leah Joy Gayeta, Sweet Manalo, and Tin Pervera (altos); Raphael Pacheco, Jenzhel Sanchez, and Kevin Sanchez (tenors); and Jose Apollos Aguinaldo, Jose Ezekiel Aguinaldo, Jose Paolo Aguinaldo, and Angelo Bautista (bass). The 2022 Christmas Cantata was made possible with the guidance and supervision of Joseph Aguinaldo, GBBC’s choir leader and with the help of the technical team: Oscar Aguinaldo, Steven Caramoan, and Samuel Pacheco. /written by: Colleen de Ocampo
/photos by: Althea Lardizabal /published by: Em Gacad Last December 18, 2022, Gospel Bible Baptist Church held its annual thanksgiving Sunday to remember God’s goodness to His children for the whole year.
On that Sunday morning, Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo reminded the church that our service is one way of giving thanks to the Lord. To be thankful, we must first learn how to be a good and faithful servant. Being a good servant starts within ourselves. There must be a mental shift or a change in our attitude. Philippians 2:4 tells us that we should not look on our own things, but we must also look on the things of others. “Others” in the text includes God. A good servant is sensitive to the needs of others, specially of God. We are reminded that the reason for our service must focus on what pleases God and not of our own intentions. God is always more interested in why we do things rather than what we have done. ATTITUDES OF A GOOD SERVANT: 1. A good servant thinks more of others. Jesus Christ showed an example of being a servant. Jesus became a servant when He was born as a man and died on the cross (Philippians 2:7-8). He took the form of a servant to ensure our salvation. We are commanded to follow Christ’s example of selflessness. If we stop focusing on our own needs, we become more aware of the needs of God and of others. 2. Being a good servant requires self-denial. A real servant does not use God for his own purpose. However, a true servant let God use him for His purpose. We should have pure hearts when it comes to our service. We must think first of what we can do for the church and for the Lord before ourselves. If we can give our best to achieve our dreams, then why can’t we do the same for our Lord? The pulpit commanded us to give our all when it comes to our ministries. GIVING OUR BEST The second point of Pastor Godwyn’s preaching taught us to give our best when it comes to our service. Matthew 5:41 required us that when we go a mile, we must go with him twain. It means that when we do something for the Lord, we must give twice the effort of what we can do. The story of Joseph taught us that we should have a servant’s heart. Genesis 39:1-4 showed the humble beginnings of Joseph as servant of Potiphar, the captain of the guard and of the Pharaoh before he became a governor. Joseph gave his best and prioritized the needs of his masters before he became a steward. Despite the hardships, Joseph continued serving his masters and trusted God. God improved the life of Joseph because of his servitude. Like Joseph, our works will never be in vain if we give our best. We must remember that everywhere we go and whatever challenge we may face, our Lord is with us to lift us up. Psalm 116:12 what shall I render unto the LORD [for] all His benefits toward me. [14] I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all His people. This year, God had prospered and showered us with countless blessings. It is time for us to prove to Him that we are worthy of these blessings, and that we can be trusted for bigger ones. We should start where we are and give our all for the glory of the Lord. After learning what God’s children must do to give back to the Lord, the church wholeheartedly sang Dakilang Katapatan before they gave their thanksgiving offerings. This year’s thanksgiving, we are reminded that God deserves the best from us because He gave us everything despite our shortcomings. /written by: Colleen de Ocampo /published by: Em Gacad On November 27, the Gospel Bible Baptist Church Tala, Caloocan partook in their first Lord’s Supper. Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo reminded the church of its importance, being an ordinance of God (1 Cor. 11:2), is to remember the Lord Jesus Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. To observe this ordinance, one must have accepted the gift of salvation, and followed the first step of obedience by being baptized in a local church. It was also emphasized that we must confess our sins to God and reflect on ourselves before partaking in the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11:28). On November 30, the Gospel Bible Baptist Church Tandang Sora also partook in the Lord’s Supper. Everyone was reminded to look back on the sacrifice of the Lord when He died for our sins at Mt. Calvary; to examine our intentions in our service for the Lord; and to wait for His return (1 Cor. 11:26). The Lord’s Supper is one of the two ordinances that a member of the church must follow. To read and learn more about it, kindly visit the links below.
https://www.gospelbbc.org/news-and-events/the-lords-supper https://www.gospelbbc.org/news-and-events/the-lords-supper-2021 /written and published by: Em Gacad /photos by: Kevin Sanchez As we celebrate 28 years of God's faithfulness, let us look back on how God has written the wonderful story of our church. The History of Gospel Bible Baptist Church A Humble Beginning (1994) The Gospel Bible Baptist Church was founded in March 1994, when its pioneer members were brought together by the Lord to form a new ministry. The members gathered in the garage of the Estioko family in Paradise Village, Q.C. and organized a mission – then named Paradise Bible Baptist Mission. Different preachers were tasked to deliver the word of God every Sunday, until GBBC’s founding pastor, Pastor Jose “Boy” Aguinaldo, was called to lead the mission. One of the trials encountered by the mission was serving the Lord during rainy days. The place of worship was an ‘L’ shaped garage with no roof in the middle. Pastor Boy who was preaching in the middle, was drenched by the rain. However, it did not hinder Pastor Boy’s dedication and continued preaching amidst the pouring rain. In June 1994, the mission leased a lot on Road 20 and built the house of God. In September of the same year, the mission was formally recognized as a church and was renamed as Gospel Bible Baptist Church. It was given full authority to function as a church by Pastor Rey Banal, then pastor of Plaridel Bible Baptist Church in Mindanao. “In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord. In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through Spirit.” Ephesians 2:21-22 KJV Amidst the Trials (1996) As a young church, it was blessed by the Lord with functioning ministries and talented members. The church conducted Cantatas, Soul Winnings, Sports Fests and attended camps. From the music ministry, choir, young people to the men and ladies, everyone was working together for the glory of God. However, in 1996, the church faced one of the greatest trials of the Lord. One Sunday morning, Pastor Boy and his family arrived and saw that the church was filled with empty seats. Only 18 people attended the service while more than half of the members left. It started when Pastor Boy noticed that the Young People’s ministry was being led to a different direction. Pastor Boy suggested that the leadership should be changed so that others will have a chance to lead. But the parents of the then leader of the Young People were against it and decided to leave the church. Most of the Young People followed and left the ministry. Amidst the lack of manpower, the faithfulness of Pastor Boy and the remaining members did not falter. Together with the children of Pastor Boy, the members filled the gap and were trained to handle two or more ministries. Every Sunday afternoon, the members went out and shared the gospel of the Lord to win souls. The church strived until new members arrived and baptism was done every Sunday. All things worked together for good because many souls were saved in Road 20. “And we know all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 KJV Last Stop before Canaan (2006 - 2017) After 12 years of service in Road 20, the church was forced to transfer to a new building, near SNR Munoz, in Congressional Avenue, Quezon City. The church continued to grow as more families were invited to attend. The church stayed at the Munoz building for almost 2 years. In 2008, the church made their last stop before finding Canaan when they transferred to the Odie Building in Congressional Avenue, Quezon City. Countless memories were made in the Odie building, even if the actions of the members were limited by the state of the leased place. Joyful thanksgiving parties were held, and numerous birthdays of Pastor Boy were celebrated. The church even attended several family camps and other interchurch events. Overcoming the test of faith (2017) On February 28, 2017, weeks before the 23rd church anniversary, the Lord called home GBBC’s founding pastor, Pastor Boy Aguinaldo. The church was left devastated and lost. But in the midst of mourning, the church pressed on and continued to support the works in the ministry. The church then celebrated their anniversary with a simple gathering. For almost 2 months, different preachers took the initiative to stand in the pulpit while waiting for the next senior pastor. In the second week of April 2017, the third son of Pastor Boy, Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo, was chosen to lead the church. Leading the church is no ordinary feat as it requires sacrifices. When Pastor Godwyn took the challenge, his family had to leave their business and dedicate their full-time service to God. He had to lead the church while his family and the members were still grieving because of the death of their father. Also, the church was in financial difficulty during that time. God continued to challenge the faith of the church. In September 2017, months after Pastor Boy left, Pastor Godwyn received an eviction letter from the owner of the Odie Building. However, Pastor Boy did not leave the church empty handed. Before he was called home, he was blessed with wisdom to save money and the church was able to raise funds to buy land. Despite the trials they went through, the church held their faith in the Lord and kept on serving Him. As a result, God blessed the church with their own land. The church grew and the members matured in the ministry. “In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.” Proverbs 14:26 KJV Reestablishing the Foundation (2017 - Present) By God’s grace, the church was able to hold its first service in Banlat, Tandang Sora on December 31, 2017. As Pastor Godwyn recalled, the prayer of the church was “Lord, if You will give this place to us, we want to hold our first service dyan sa church na ‘yan before the end of the year.” This was a historic moment for the church because it is a testament of a promise fulfilled between God and the members of GBBC. Two years later, the church celebrated their first major event in Prime Hotel, Quezon Ave. Quezon City: GBBC’s 25th anniversary with the theme “Dakilang Katapatan”, havingMissionary Dennis Ebert as the guest speaker. Truly, God’s faithfulness was never in question. Transferring to a new place is not always easy. One of the challenges faced by the church was the acceptance of their new neighbors. However, all the trials only made them depend on God more. The church did not let the unfamiliar environment hinder them from serving God and growing more. After all, our service to God is never based on our comfort. The lot that was provided by God was not the only thing that He blessed the church with. When the church moved to Banlat, Tandang Sora, there was another lot beside the newly built church which was owned by Mr. Ariel Perez. Since the church needed a parking lot as well, Pastor Godwyn talked to Mr. Perez to rent the lot. Thankfully, he agreed and the church went on to build fences around it. Then again, what is a victory without a fight? Their faith was tested by God when news came to Pastor Godwyn that there were people looking into buying the lot. That was when he approached Mr. Perez to secure the lot. Unfortunately, he declined and said that the lot was not up for sale. Pastor Godwyn specifically prayed to God to bring them in a situation wherein the owner will have to sell them the lot. Patiently, they waited for God’s answer. Two months later, Pastor Godwyn received a phone call from Mr. Perez and asked for prayers regarding his health. He went on to ask Pastor Godwyn if he was still interested in buying the lot. By God’s grace the church raised the money for the lot and was able to give an initial payment. The church prayed for it, claimed it, and it was given by God. “Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Mark 11:24 KJ Growing Ministries Since we transferred to Banlat, Tandang Sora, there have been adjustments and developments done inside and outside the church. Aside from the renovation and beautification of the house of God, the church was blessed to expand its ministries. Aside from developing the ministry of leaders which includes Bro. Gel Rafols, Bro. Mario Gayeta, Bro. Adrian de Ocampo, and Bro. Jun Adille, God sent some of His people to work full time in the church. GBBC Seminary Then came a time after a youth camp in 2019 held at Silang, Cavite, that Pastor Godwyn introduced the idea of opening a Seminary. Pastor Godwyn convinced the Church that it is about time that we train God-called people to become better-equipped servants of the Lord. We are blessed to be provided with seminary modules from La Loma Baptist Church who was then under Pastor Gilbert Toquero. By God’s grace, we were provided willing Pastors such as Pastor Rey Correo, Pastor Juni Flores and men and ladies of the church such as Sis. Grace De Ocampo, Sis. Shimea Aguinaldo, and Bro. Gel Rafols as our teachers. On February 25, 2022, there was also an event called “Seminary Night” hosted by our church to encourage other people to join us. However, due to the limitations brought about by the pandemic, the seminary was temporarily paused until just this August of 2022. GBBC Tala Congregation Another landmark of our church's ministry started some time in June 2020 when brother Mario Gayeta approached Pastor Godwyn to talk about a building that Bro Mario had recently purchased. Our Pastor initially thought that the reason why bro Mario approached him was for us to dedicate the new building. But to Pastor's surprise, he was challenged by Bro. Mario when he briefly said that we should start a ministry in the place. There have been multiple attempts by Baptist Churches to establish a church using the same building but discontinued. But it wasn't long before our Church took the challenge and gave their part in planting the seed among the people in Tala, Caloocan. We were blessed with manpower and resources to renovate the main worship area, enabling us to conduct our first official service in Tala in the afternoon of the 20th of September, 2020 (the same day as our church's 26th year anniversary). There were already some people from the community that attended our service. Little did they know that they will later be the same people whom God will use to further expand His cause. The work that God has commanded us to do didn't stop there. There were men, ladies, and young people who took part in letting others know God through His word. There were efforts made by having Bible Studies and conducting discipleship programs every week. Some time after, the then Preacher Ponciano Tan was assigned to spearhead the ministry in Tala accompanied by Bro. Gerald as their choir conductor. The ministry grew as they conduct soul winning every Thursday and have Singles' Night every Friday, expanding God's Kingdom while strengthening their bond with one another. Eventually, during the 2nd Anniversary of Tala held last 10th of September, 2022, the now Pastor Ponciano Tan was assigned as the official Pastor of Gospel Bible Baptist Church of Tala, Caloocan. Looking back, we all knew that starting a new ministry in Tala was no easy task. But we have faith and took it to God and He responded by providing the needs to establish His ministry. Surely, God is good to our Church and to the people of Tala, Caloocan. During the Pandemic In the year 2020, when the COVID19 pandemic struck, there were trials that the church had to face. Following the then protocol, the church opted to hold their worship service online. Exploring this new medium included challenges in the technical and spiritual side of things. The faith of the members were tested due to the threat of the virus. Still, by God’s mercy and grace, the church’s prayer for things to get better was answered by God. The first on site worship service was held after months of doing it online. Once again, God’s goodness was highlighted in everyone’s lives. The church also opened other ministries that have become a blessing not only to the church members, but to other people as well. From the increasing members of the choir led by Bro. Joseph and Sis. Shimeah Aguinaldo, to the expanding music ministry which includes pianists, guitarists, and violinists, and the multimedia ministry led by Bro. Adrian de Ocampo, church ministries have been fruitful in the past two years amidst the pandemic. Last July 2021, the 6 AM Daily Devotion, led by Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo, was started and is consistent up to now with an average of 30-40 attendees everyday. The Gospel Chronicles, the official GBBC Newsletter led by Sis. Em Gacad, was also established in the same year and was launched last September 2021 which was set to publish articles covering church news, events, testimonials, and devotions. The latest, John 10:3 Ushering Ministry, led by Bro. Elmer Abad was also established to help keep the church services in order, organized, and acceptable unto God. “So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.” 1 Corinthians 3:7-8 KJV The Heart of Our Service For the past 28 years, the heart of our service has always been to win souls, teach disciples, and build churches for the Lord. Sacrifice is one of the most important aspects in a servant’s life that is seen in the story of Gospel Bible Baptist Church following the Lord’s example. Many people have come and gone, yet, many have remained and went on to preach the gospel. There were losses that can never be replaced, but instead are filled by God’s promises and unending grace. As God has beautifully written the history of our church, we pray that by God’s grace, we will be able to share His goodness through His word, planting seeds and sowing fruits to keep the work going for the glory of God until the Lord comes back. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:19-20 KJV /written by: Colleen de Ocampo, Em Gacad, Raphael Pacheco
/photos compiled by: Chloe Aguinaldo, Em Gacad September 4, 2022, GBBC Tandang Sora - Gospel Bible Baptist Church has officially delegated Pastor Ponciano Tan as the Official Pastor-in-Charge of the ministry in Tala, Caloocan.
Our Sunday evening service was capped off by a very welcome answered prayer. At the start of this year, Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo relayed to us his prayer to further establish the work in Tala by appointing a permanent, resident man of God who will lead the growing ministry in Caloocan. And just in time for the satellite church’s 2nd year anniversary, the Lord firmly answered our prayers. And now the church has officially sent Pastor Ponciano Tan to lead the people in Tala, Caloocan. Pastor Ponce, as our church fondly calls him, had surrendered his life to the Lord over a decade ago when he entered the seminary of Franklin Llanita Goden Theological University of Society Bible Baptist Church under Rev. Franklin Goden. He graduated from the seminary by 2016 and wasted no time in being a huge part of the work of the Lord. He had a hand in ministries in Laguna and most notably in Samar with his good friend, Pastor Dondo Rapatan. He joined the Gospel Bible Baptist Church family in January 2021 and ever since had been a good soldier of the Lord, a protégé and a trusted man of our senior pastor. Now the work is laid out for Pastor Ponce as he takes the helm of a growing ministry. As he declared in his speech during our service, he is ready for the challenge because he knows he is not alone. And in his own words: "Alam ko po na kasama ko ang Panginoon una sa lahat, kasama ko ang mga kapatiran sa Tala at alam kong kasama ko rin kayo sa aking ministry." And as gleefully answered by our Pastor, the church will continue to support our work in Tala and Pastor Ponce. Godspeed to your journey, Pastor Ponce and a very happy 2nd anniversary to our brethren in Tala, Caloocan! /written by: Kevin Sanchez /photos by: Michaella Pacheco /published by: Em Gacad Last June 29, 2022, The Lord’s Supper was held at GBBC Tandang Sora. Before starting, Church members were asked to be silent for an individual prayer. This allowed everyone to make sure that their hearts are ready and prepared for the ceremony. The Lord’s Supper is an ordinance followed by church members only. This ordinance is for us to remember the Lord Jesus Christ whose body is signified by the unleavened bread and whose blood is symbolized by the grape juice. This ceremony should be done as often as a church can as it is written (1 Corinthians 11:26 KJV). On that Wednesday evening, four important points of the Lord’s Supper were preached by Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo. The message simply reminded everyone of the true purpose of The Lord’s Supper. Here are some of the key points from the message: The importance of doing this ordinance are as follows: 1. Remembrance: To remember God’s presence and God’s sacrifice on the cross of Calvary.
2. Recommendation: We should recommend ourselves to others as a child of God, in fact, we must be proud of it. It is important that we are able to reflect Christ in our lives in order for others to believe our recommendation. In this point, we are also reminded that partaking in this ordinance doesn’t save us nor lessen our sins.
3. Reflection: It's time to know our true selves. Examining ourselves is important before partaking in the Lord’s Supper. We must know whether our hearts are pure or if there are still unconfessed sins hidden inside. Most importantly, we must be true to God in everything. Admitting our faults in humility before God is the only way that will lead us to true repentance.
4. Rejoicing: This assures us that God will come back. Remembering the Lord Jesus Christ’s sacrifice everyday of our lives brings us back to our purpose in this world. With this, we must be full of hope and joy for we know that we must keep working till He comes.
After knowing the importance of The Lord’s Supper, church members were asked to stand up and pray before taking the bread and grape juice which signified the body and blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord's Supper is a holy ceremony that must be done respectfully with a righteous heart. It is to be taken seriously as it comes side to side with blessings or a curse. We do it with great honor and reverence to God.
/written by: Jemaimah Alquizar /photos by: Chloe Aguinaldo /published by: Em Gacad [24] Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. [25] For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. [26] For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? [27] For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. (Matthew 16:24-27 KJV) We were often told that the measure of one's success in life is when you are able to fulfill the will of God in your life. With this, we know that there will be sacrifices to be made in order to follow the Master's plan. But what does it really mean to let God lead your life?
Dennis Ebert came from a simple family in St. Joseph Missouri and lived most of his teenage life in Wichita Kansas where he studied elementary and high school. In 1961, he joined the US Marines and got the chance to explore some parts of the world such as Japan, Philippines, and California in 1963. It was after he returned from the Marines where his life began to change. In the same year, Dennis Ebert met Gloria Winkle. Not long after, by the grace of God, they got married in 1964. In the year 1965, Dennis Ebert surrendered his life to God to work full-time in the ministry. In 1966, he entered the Bible Baptist Church and became a Bible Student while raising his growing family. Several years later, the Eberts decided to leave Kansas and head to Austin. There, they became a family of seven, having five boys. It was not an easy start in the ministry, but it is written in the bible that all things work together for good to them that love God. It was by the grace of God that they were sustained and given strength to face the trials of life, especially being servants of God. In September 9, 1979 the Eberts first set their foot as missionaries in the Philippines. Meanwhile, Fred Null, who established Bible Baptist Church of Mandaluyong and co-founded Bible Baptist Seminary, was physically unable to continue his mission in the Philippines. In 1981, Missionary Null retired and returned home to the US. This was now the start of the Eberts' leadership of the school following the request of Missionary Null. In the year 1982, they moved to Manila where Dennis Ebert officially took over as President of what was now called the Bible Baptist Seminary Inc in 1983, fulfilling his first responsibility to legally identify the organization of the school, while Pastor Primo Tabanda was the Vice President. It was the beginning of their many wonderful works for the Lord. By God's grace, Bible Baptist Seminary has been used tremendously by the Lord to produce great people of God who have been trained and helped build many churches that continues to spread the gospel. It sure took a lot of sacrifices having to leave their homeland and settle somewhere else in order to continue the work of the Lord. Celebrating 43 years of their missionary life in the Philippines also means celebrating God's calling in their lives and being able to fulfill them by His grace. To Missionaries Dennis and Gloria Ebert, we, your brethren from Gospel Bible Baptist Church, would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being an example and an inspiration to many believers. Thank you for allowing God to use you as a channel of blessing to all the lives that you have touched. May God keep you in His protection and guidance as you come back home to your motherland. You are a blessing to us and the many generations of Bible Baptists in the future. Thank you for your faithfulness in serving God and obeying His highest calling. Special thanks to Bro. Jolo Aguinaldo for helping the writer gather the information needed for this article. /written by: Em Gacad
In retrospect… Before Pastor Boy joined our Creator, he would always tell his son, Pastor Godwyn, that he was praying for him to someday have the calling from the Lord to be a Pastor. But Pastor Godwyn would often avoid or change the topic whenever it is brought up. He would rather tell Pastor Boy, “Kayo ang Pastor diyan, dad. Matagal pa ‘yan.” One can definitely understand the response of Pastor Godwyn, for being a Pastor is a hefty task. It is only according to one’s faith to show how much he or she is willing to give and take for the Lord. Exactly twenty days before his dad, Pastor Boy, passed, Pastor Godwyn posted a verse on facebook, saying: Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD. Jeremiah 23:24 KJV According to his wife, Sister Pearl Aguinaldo, she had a feeling that Pastor Godwyn was already hearing the calling of God, but he wanted to hide himself and escape. Who can blame him? Even we, as Christians, sometimes tend to escape from the will of God because as much as we know that His will is what’s best for us, we are also aware that following the will of God will definitely change the course of our lives. Can we say that, maybe, like us, Pastor Godwyn was afraid to leave the comfort of his life, seeing all the sacrifices that a Pastor makes through his father? Maybe or maybe not. But this only shows that our Pastor is also human like us, he is not perfect, but he let God perfect his ways. Trust and obey… After Pastor Boy’s passing on February 27, 2017, they prayed as a family and asked God for His will in their lives. Eventually, Pastor Godwyn accepted God’s calling and followed his dad’s footsteps in being a Pastor. This was one of the most important events in the history of Gospel Bible Baptist Church for who knows what could’ve happened to our church if Pastor Godwyn did not respond to God’s call accordingly? When Pastor Godwyn entered his ministry as a Pastor, he and his wife decided to give up their business and work for the Lord full time. Surrendering to God all that they have at that time and trusting God’s will for their family was everything they had. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Matthew 16:24 KJV In March 2017, Pastor Godwyn started preaching and was officially ordained as the Pastor of Gospel Bible Baptist Church the month after. God’s faithfulness to His faithful servant… Our church’s history has been known to many. All the challenges, trials, and persecutions that we went through has been a testimony of God’s faithfulness and grace to His servants. Just when Pastor Godwyn started to be a Pastor, we were already tested by God. When we were evicted from our church in Congressional Avenue, Pastor Godwyn fervently prayed to God and asked Him for wisdom on where we will go from there. At an early age as a Pastor, he learned to lean on God and depend on His strength and wisdom. All these challenges became a blessing when we, as a church, sacrificed according to our faith and ended up buying a lot and building a new church. God did not leave us nor forsake us. If it weren’t for our Pastor stepping up, we wouldn’t have been where we are now as a church. Being a Pastor for four years, a lot has changed in their family, especially in Pastor Godwyn, personally. Everytime he takes a stand at the pulpit and preaches the Word of God, we are not the only ones who learn from the lessons, he also grows from studying the message, making him stronger and wiser as he is equipped by God. An appreciation and thanks… Pastor Godwyn never stopped thinking of ways to help each brethren’s spiritual growth. Our church was blessed with a very loving and compassionate Pastor. He would always encourage everyone to put God first and to really surrender everything to God. It is his happiness to see everyone growing in God’s love and grace. Through the leadership of Pastor Godwyn, God allowed our church to continue enlarging our coast by blessing us with a lot of ministries and even building a satellite church in Tala, Caloocan. Other work for the Lord such as the GBBC Seminary, and new ministries like the Higher Praise, 6 o’clock devotion, the Gospel Chronicles, and many more to come will not be possible without the help of our dear Pastor. As a servant of God, and a member of our church, I am personally grateful for our Pastor for his dedication and determination. Many times, I have called for his help and advice for I know that I can trust his wisdom which is from God. In my one year as a member of our church, I have learned a lot from Pastor Godwyn’s preachings. One of these, that is closest to my heart, is doing everything for God’s glory. Although I am not perfect, and far from being a worthy Christian, I thank God that Pastor Godwyn taught me to always check my heart before doing anything for God. I thank my Pastor for when he preaches about his imperfections, I become grateful to God more because I realize that we are all the same, and all we have is God’s grace. I hope that Pastor Godwyn knows that I will never leave him, and our church. This is where God put me, and I will serve Him here with a grateful and humble heart, always reaching for the best things for God’s glory as my Pastor has taught me.
“Well, God used Pastor Godwyn as an instrument in my life, specifically an eye opener of the things that I can’t learn in any school that I can think of. He used him as a teacher to me for what to do and what not to do. There are a lot of things that he had said in the pulpit that made an impact in my life and helped me change to be a person God wants me to be, by guiding me through his preachings. He also instilled in me the value of bond and fellowship with our brethren.” -Althea Lardizabal “Humility,integrity,and generosity: mga katangian na naglarawan kay Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo. Inspiring me in my walk of faith, your messages are always full of insight and truth encouraging me to grow more in faith,too! Napakaraming challenges na hinaharap natin (maging ako man sa pansarili) pero batid ng Diyos sa Jeremiah 3:15 ang patnubay. A simple “thank you” can't cover for all that you've done (and still continue to do) please, let me at least express my gratitude and appreciation for such an inspiration and blessing as you are, PASTOR GODWYN AGUINALDO!! GOD bless you mightily as He pleases!” -Ely Taala-Saquilayan “Ginamit ng Panginoon ang ating pastor, Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo sa aking buhay upang mas lalo akong maging matatag sa anumang trials sa buhay.nagbibigay sya ng kalakasan sa akin spiritually sa kanyang mga preaching na pakiramdam ko laging patama sa akin.natutunan kong baguhin ang aking pag uugali unti unti naipapamuhay ko ung mga preaching nya tuwing sunday at wednesday nandyan siya para magbigay ng comfort at advise pag may problema sa aming pamilya. Nagbibigay sya ng kalakasan sa akin sa mga preaching nya. I'm very blessed na siya ang aking naging pastor.” -Grace Sanchez “Ginamit ng Panginoon ang ating pastor, Pastor Godwyn Aguinaldo sa aking buhay for my spiritual growth at pra mamuhay ng tama sa harapan ng Diyos at tinuruan nya akong maging matatag sa anumang trials sa buhay lagi siyang nandyan upang magbigay sa akin ng advise at encouragement at nagpapalakas sa akin spiritually at higit sa lahat kung paano mahalin ang Panginoong Diyos ng higit pa sa aking buhay.” -Jenny Sanchez “Ginamit Ng Panginoon si Pastor Godwyn sa buhay ko sa maraming ways. Una, para lalo akong magtiwala sa kaniya, iyong buong tiwala.Pastor Godwyn always said in his preaching “Bakit Hindi mo kasi subukan ang Panginoon? May nagtiwala na ba dito Na pinabayaan Niya?” Madalas kasi dati half-hearted ako maraming alinlangan sa puso Lalo na sa mga desisyon. God used Pastor Godwyn In my life in the way I think. Lagi niyang sinasabi always thank God kung ano ang meron ka maliit man o malaki. Always put the credit to God. Lagi niyang sinasabi na wag natin limitahan ang magagawa natin para sa Panginoon.Use what you have now. I thank God na ginamit Niya si Pastor Godwyn para lalo akong maggrow at magtiwala sa Kaniya. Ginamit niya si Pastor Godwyn para lalo kong ma-appreciate ang mga blessing Niya sa buhay ng pamilya ko. He is a blessing to my family.” -Arlene Callo “Pastor G. taught me how to change my perspective in life - for me to accept the things that happenings in my life as an opportunity to have a better/closer personal relationship to GOD and not as punishment because I'm not righteous. He encourages me to share my pains to others so they can see how merciful our God is. He encourages me to have a ministry even in my situation - though my daily devotion. He encourages me to be thirsty for God's words. Thank you Pastor G. for your selflessness, sacrificing your time, effort, strength for us and for the church.” -Net Carlos “Ginamit sakin si pastor Godwyn ng Panginoon upang mas makilala ko Pa ang Panginoon at patuloy ko pang matutunan ang salita ng Diyos.At patuloy akong tinutulungan na baguhin ang aking sarili.” -Sabel Ramirez “I am very thankful to the Lord for the life of Pastor Godwyn. While I may not be able to list down all the things and personal matters where Pastor has touched my life, I can say with utmost certainty that our Pastor has continued to keep my focus on the Lord. And I know that all of us can attest that this has been his character as well. Every single time that I talk to our Pastor, he would always bring me back to what is most important and what should be first. It may come in various iterations but the message remains the same: looking upon Jesus. "Have you prayed for this already?" "Do you believe that this is God's will in your life?" "How will this affect your service to the Lord?" These are just some of the statements I've heard personally from our Pastor and I am sure that some of us did too. We are truly blessed that we have a Pastor who would pray and cheer for us. Pastor Godwyn has always kept me grounded by reminding me of the single basic thing to remember. Whether in blessings or in problems, he would always pull me back from going low in problems or going high in blessings; telling me never to forget that we have the Lord in our highs or in lows. He will always remind me to be thankful for all things and to keep on serving the Lord. I guess to summarize how God uses our Pastor, I would have to say that God gave us a Pastor that does what he says. He is someone that walks the talk. And in his faithfulness, the people follow and the members' lives have changed for the better. We thank You, Lord, for giving us our Pastor.” -Kevin Sanchez /written by: Em Gacad
/photos from: Tin Pervera special thanks Sis Pot Aguinaldo for helping us with the necessary information. |
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