Maupay Nga Aga! Hello from the Oras Riverboat team. We have already visited three barangays- Cagto-og, Rizal, and Cadi-An. Cagto-og had a few believers already that we were able to encourage and then we had over 10 salvations and 2 baptisms. We helped them start a house church type Bible study that we pray will continue.
Emotionally, the first week was the hardest for our team because we were all still trying to adjust to being here and having homesickness, but we were able to encourage each other and pray together so that has not been as big of a "thorn" these past two villages!
Then, we visited Rizal. We had been told that no one had visited before except last year's team prayer walked it. We expected lots of spiritual warfare and not too much acceptance, but God proved otherwise! There were 24 salvations and 6 baptisms! These new believers we knew seem very genuine. Their obedience became evident and they felt the urgency to share with family and neighbors! God showed himself so much that week and it was so encouraging to us as a team to see how He works! We don't deserve to or are even needed, but God is still willing to use us to spread the Gospel.
Our team unity has been wonderful. We have not had any issues and absolutely love spending time sharing stories and laughing together as a group. Our translators are so helpful and are definitely part of the group!
Last Sunday morning, we headed to Cadi-An. This barangay already had a church, so our main purpose was to share with the members how to teach a Bible study, share their testimony, and present the gospel. One of the translators from last year lives here so he showed us around-where all the believers and church members live! There were lots of youth involved in the church, which was great to see because that means the next generation is growing and willing to share.
Our mid summer vacation was in good timing as all of us were exhausted. It was great to get together with the other riverboat teams and share stories as well. We are about to head to Aragonga for their church anniversary tomorrow! Then, back to our river for the rest of the summer.
Have a great day!
Oras Riverboat Team