WINTER EDITION January 2016 Volume 4, Issue 1

A newsletter of North Victory Baptist Church

W ell Done, Thou Good and Faithful Servant…

The North Victory Baptist Church used to assign a date for the Pastors’ Appreciation celebration. This was not held this year because the leadership believes that gratitude for service should not be expressed exclusively towards those who dominate the pulpit - the pastors. Pastor Enrique “Henry” Manansala, Senior Pastor of NVBC, and Pastor Ramiro “Yhong” Basical, Assistant Pastor, are remarkable men of God and so are the majority of the congregants being used by God in various ways and capacities. The men and women, who took the challenge to be of use to the glorification of the Father, belong to the approval, as well.

The appreciation event, which had a huge turnout of attendees, was held on the 29th of November 2015, after the Sunday service. Led and organized by the leader of the Christian Education Ministry, Sister Fely Labro, did the welcoming remarks. Brother Aldous Obar was the master of ceremonies, while Brother Gerry Manabat led everybody in an opening prayer. Pastor Henry relayed God’s message with the emphasis on the importance of putting value on the servants of the Lord. He also mentioned three tips on how to appreciate generously/frequently, verbally, and sincerely. Even Paul the Apostle, took time to mention specifically the names of the people who served alongside with him in the ministry in the book of Romans 16.

The Victory Choir offered a special number entitled “May the Lord Find Us Faithful” followed by a game of team-building wherein the crowd was divided into groups of four. Each team had to come up with a list of common things each member share with one another. Brother Lawrence’s team won the prize for the longest list.

Brother Aldous offered a solemn prayer for all the workers while Brother Gerry awarded the tokens of appreciation to the two beloved pastors. Pastor Ramir expressed his thanks to Pastor Henry, his wife, Sister Chinky, and to all the workers of NVBC, before praying for the food and closing the whole affair with a prayer.VoV

Upcoming Events

JAN 30 - Teachers’/Workers’ Training

FEB 6 - Newsletter Writing Workshop

FEB 13 - Parents’/Teachers’ Training

FEB 21 - NVBC Anniversary

FEB 27 - CPR Training

MAR 5 - Couples’ Fellowship Training

MAR 19 - MSPowerpoint Training

MAR 20 - Holy Week Cantata

MAR 20 - Mom’s Ministry Fellowship

APR 2 - Sound System Training

APR 16 - Basic MSExcel & Data Entry Training

APR 30 - Ladies’ Fellowship

Well Done, Thou Good & Faithful Servant .. 1

From the Pastor’s Heart ............................. 2

Heaven’s Manna ......................................... 2

Missions Connect ........................................ 3

Jesus is the Reason for the Season ............. 4

Good Samaritans at NVBC .......................... 4

Young at Heart Fellowships ........................ 5

Caring for the Caregivers ............................ 5

FFBC Pastors Fellowship ............................ 6

Inauguration of Moms’ Ministry ................ 6

Newsletter Year-End Fellowship ................ 7

NVBC Hallelujah Night ............................... 7

Ministry Updates 2015 .............................. 8

Christian Living ........................................... 10

Christmas Eve Service Poem ...................... 11

On the Bright Side ....................................... 12

MBC Men’s Christmas Fellowship .............. 12

MBC Pastors & Workers Appreciation Day 13

MBC Ladies Christmas Fellowship .............. 13

MBC Ladies Apple Picking/Niagara ............ 14

MBC New Members Fellowship ................. 15

MBC Hallelujah Night ................................. 15

MBC Christmas Fellowship ......................... 16

In this issue

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Simeon was only mentioned once in the Bible. People rarely talk about him. But God has much wisdom and truth for us from the life of Simeon. He is called “just” and “devout.” “Just” means he was not perfect but he lived a holy life of obedience to God. “Devout” means he was very faithful to God. It means he was consistent in his prayers, reading of scripture and his worship. I offer three reasons for this. (1) Simeon was fervently waiting for the coming Messiah (2) The Holy Spirit was upon Simeon and was sensitive to the Holy Spirit. (3) Simeon believed that God’s love is for everyone.

1) Good thing about Simeon, while waiting for the Messiah, was that he kept his hands busy in serving and worshipping God. Some people wait and sit. God commanded us to “occupy ‘til I come” (Luke 19:13). God told us in Hebrews 10:25, to “not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”

2) Simeon was so sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s voice that the

Holy Spirit blessed him with a special revelation (i.e. that he will see the coming of the Messiah before he dies). It was the Spirit who prompted him to go to the temple and there he met the Baby Jesus, who was born 40 days earlier.

3) In verses 30-32, while holding the Baby Jesus, Simeon declared “For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared before the face of all people, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.”

In this Christmas season and as we look forward to a New Year, may we all follow the footsteps of Simeon. As we ardently await for the return of the King, let us be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit and remember, God’s love is for everyone!

He desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). This will lead us to a life of holiness and faithfulness to God.VoV

Simeon – the Just and Devout (Luke 2:25-35) by Henry Manansala - Senior Pastor

Christmas is a special day for Christians, as we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. We believe the biblical and historical fact that once in the history of humanity, God the Son came down to earth in a form of a human baby to be the Saviour of the world. Though there are some controversy surrounding Christmas like its pagan origin, and that Christ was not born on December 25, I do believe this should not vex us from celebrating the most awaited season of the year.

December 25th was traditionally a pagan holiday originated in the Roman world. They named this festival as Saturnalia, in recognition to their pagan deity, Saturn. This was the longest night of the year which they spent all night partying and celebrating. In Roman culture, the way they celebrate Saturnalia was somewhat similar to our Christmas. They would buy gifts for family and friends. They would also go around and sing Saturnalia songs from house to house. Sounds familiar, right? Even our Christmas trees, poinsettias, decorative lights, gold ornaments and other paraphernalia we traditionally use in Christmas can be traced back to its pagan origin. So, how did this pagan celebration turn into Christmas? Way back around

320 A.D., the Roman Emperor Constantine became a Christian. The first thing he did after his conversion was declare Christianity as the state religion. Through this decree, everybody in the empire was supposed to become a Christian. He turned Saturnalia into a time of remembering Christ’s birth.

What about the date of Jesus’ birth? In connection with the pagan holiday of Saturnalia, December 25 is absolutely not the date Jesus was born. The hint to the birthday of Jesus was actually found in the pages of the Gospels particularly in the book of Luke chapter 2. We learn in verse 8 that shepherds were out in the fields watching their flocks at night, during the time of Christ’s birth. Shepherds do not watch their flocks out in the fields during winter. Shepherds could only take their sheep out in the pasture for only about six months, in the late of spring, summer and autumn. That’s about May to October in our Gregorian calendar. Therefore, Luke 2:8 has to be during some other part of the year. So, it tells us that Jesus could not

(Continued on page 11)

Christmas Chronicle by Ramir Basical - Assistant Pastor

From the Pastor’s Heart

Heaven’s Manna

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Missionary Profile: Pastor Eliasar Adalan by Brother Rogel Mendez - Missions Assistant

North Victory Baptist Church has been and is continuously being used by the Lord in reaching out to the world in many different ways. Evangelism is one of the major focuses of the church and one way to practice this is by announcing the good news of salvation to everyone seeking for eternal assurance of salvation. The gospel should be shared and spread by all believers as what the Lord has commanded us in Mathew 28:18-20, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nation baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

The church has been blessed by the Lord with faithful servants who believe in spreading the gospel in all of the earth. For this reason, the church’s Missions Ministry continues to grow and is evident by the yearly additional missionaries supported by the church both local and international.

We are blessed to be in partnership with one of the men of God fulfilling the great commission by pastoring a mission work in the Philippines. Born on October 27, 1973 in a little village of Pega, Luba, Abra, Northern Philippines is Pastor Eliasar Adalan. He was born in a Christian family, raised by his parents, Joseph and Edwina, who were converted and accepted the Lord as their personal Lord and Saviour through an American missionary who visited their place and shared the gospel to them in the early 1960s.

As a young boy, Eliasar’s parents always took him to church every Sunday along with his 3 siblings. He was introduced to the knowledge and wisdom of the Lord at a very young age. On November 4, 1985, the 12-year old Eliasar accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Saviour as a product of his attendance in a Sunday school. According to him, his Sunday school teacher at that time was sharing about the existence of hell and God talked to him about his need of a Saviour to escape from the punishment of eternal damnation. At first he thought that doing good and being kind was the way to heaven until the teacher told him that the only way to heaven is through Jesus Christ. Jesus died on the cross of Calvary for him to be saved. From then on, he continuously seeks the wisdom of God in his

life and prayed that He will continuously serve the Lord through a mission work.

He completed High School at Tiempo National High School before he decided to follow the Lord’s calling for him to enroll in a Theology College. While at Baptist Theological College in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, he pastored Namalpalan Baptist

Church for more than a year before he moved to Taled Baptist Church in Bantay, Ilocos Sur and stayed there for

another 2 years while working on completing his course in Theology. After graduation, he started a mission in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte. He pastored Sarrat Bible Baptist Mission for quite some time before he accepted the Lord’s

leading for him to be a church co-worker in Baguio City. After that, God led him to Naguilian, La Union to be a co-labourer of Pastor Mateo Santiago in running a church. God blessed them with many outreaches and one of them

is a neighboring town in Burgos, La Union which eventually became a place where Pastor Adalan was called to start a mission work through New Hope Baptist Mission.

The recommendation for Pastor Eliasar to lead a mission work in Burgos, La Union was officially started on June 28, 2008. As a pioneering work, they went house-to-house visitation, conducted home bible studies and started good news classes to people of all ages in the place. Pastor Eliasar knows that starting a ministry will be a difficult work but he believed that all trials and sacrifices in the ministry are part of God’s blessing. He accepted all the challenges with all of his heart and on that same year, God’s work started to show harvest as manifested by five believers submitting themselves in water baptism in obedience to the Lord’s command.

Since they started the mission, the Lord wonderfully blessed their work as they have baptized more than forty (40) new believers and still counting to this day. As part of their evangelism campaign, they never stop doing weekly if not daily bible studies, shared the gospel through their good news program and continuously hold prayer meetings and church services. Truly, God is blessing the work in Burgos as they have started to build their own church building through the help of the members and God-sent missionaries who are in partnership with them.

Now, Pastor Eliasar continuously does God’s work together with his wife, Marilou and their three children namely Hadassah Mae, Nicole Dianna and Sadrach Daniel.VoV

M issions Connect

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Jesus is the Reason for the Season

‘Tis the season to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and on Sunday, December 20, 2015, the annual Christmas cantata presentation took place in North Victory Baptist Church. The program started at roughly 10:15 am and the church was filled with excited members as well as first time visitors.

The children of the Christian Education Ministry, all of whom have laboured hard for months under the strict tutelage of the musical director, Sister Emily Flores, rendered to the congregation “The Best Christmas Present Ever” musical. The premise of the story is about a group of children from a local church who only have one week to invite people from their town to a birthday party they are planning for Jesus. In order to get the word out fast, they enlist the help of a local TV anchorman, Rod Stark, who happens to be a non-believer. Catchy songs such as “I Heard You Knockin,” “Nothing Is Impossible With God” and “What Will You Do?” put added emphasis on the message of the play.

Pastor Henry delivered a short and simple but powerful message on the spirit of generous giving during Christmas holiday. He tied his message to the most generous gift of all, which is Jesus Christ whom God had sacrificed to redeem the sins of this world. God did this because of one reason only – He loves us and wants us to have eternal life in heaven (John 3:16). At the end of his message, Pastor Henry offered a prayer of invitation to those who wanted to accept Christ as their Lord and personal Saviour.

The play concluded with few more

songs and a changed Rod Stark, who has since become a believer of Christ because of what he witnessed through the eyes of the children he encountered.

After the program ended, the fellowship continued with a meal specially prepared by the Social Committee. Everybody went home with a full stomach and renewed spirit. What a blessed day! To God be the Glory.VoV

This year, NVBC participated in the Operation Christmas Child gift distribution through Samaritan’s Purse International. The shoeboxes were distributed on November 8 and donations were collected on November 15 and 22 consecutively. Although we were pressed with time, the congregation’s response to this cause was overwhelming and very encouraging. About 90 boxes

were collected and 55 individuals and families participated and shared their blessings. Many

expressed enthusiasm in getting the boxes ready and even shared very exciting stories of their journey in packing the boxes and how it impacted their lives and

their families. Looking forward to participate once again in

Operation Christmas Child 2016.VoV

Good Samaritans at NVBC By Sister Thess Isidro - L.O.V.E. Ministry Leader

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Young at Heart Fellowships

On October 4, 35 people aged 50 and above met to form the first gathering of the Young At Heart Fellowship. This fellowship was initially intended for retirees in NVBC but as invitations were sent, people have expressed their desire to join the fellowship bringing down the cutoff age to 50 years. The meeting highlights were the devotion imparted by Tatay Raymundo Isidro using his very deep Tagalog language, the testimony of Sister Veronica, and the remembering the names game. Each of the young at heart was asked to recite the name of each person in the group. Pastor Henry gave a special message that challenged the group to think of their legacy.

Brother Richard Bautista was the initiator of the fellowship and Brother Emil Labro was the Elder-liaison. During the second meeting of the group held on December 6th, the Young at Hearts elected their set of officers. Brother Alfredo Macabunga was elected as the President to be assisted by his wife, Sister Judy Macabunga. Sister Florence Balai was elected as the Secretary and Sister Veronica Blanza as the Assistant Secretary.

Sister Ofelia Agbayani was elected as the

Treasurer and the Assistant Treasurer was Sister Cheryl Majo.

The second meeting was highlighted by a special number rendered by Sister Ofelia, who played her harmonica, and a powerful testimony shared by Brother Benny.

The Young at Heart Fellowship has started and is now taking shape with the election of its officers. It is with optimism that the fellowship will be sustained and will become the avenue for the nourishment of the spiritual growth of the matured people of NVBC.VoV

Caring for the Caregivers In Asia and Italy, they are called “domestic helper.” In Europe, they are referred to as “nanny” or “governess.” In North America, they are commonly known as “caregiver.” They are the unsung heroes of today’s society. What is so remarkable about them is that they are mainly comprised of Filipinos, mainly Filipinas. Filipino caregivers are one of the most sought-after employees by many families around the world. They are preferred over other nationalities because of their dedication and hard work. In Canada, Filipinos are one of the most visible minorities in the country with over half a million in population, with the majority as caregivers. Their stories are the same: they left the mother country in search of a greener pasture elsewhere in order to support their families back home.

In NVBC, the majority of the members are caregivers. Many of them share the same daily struggles: homesickness, underpaid, overworked. Unfortunately, most of them are also under-appreciated. That’s why on October 25, 2015 the leaders of NVBC along with Sister Mary Glen Buelo and Sister Sonia Lozada have bonded together to pay tribute to its own caregivers to show their love and appreciation. Sister Helen Barayuga was the appointed emcee. One Sound Ministry set the tone of the program with a beautiful acapella rendition of “Lead Me Lord.” Sisters Sonia Lozada and Mila Salgado gave

touching and eye-opening testimonies about how they came to know Christ and their struggles as caregivers in Hong Kong and Singapore and then later on, as foreign workers in Canada. Sister Lerma Cordero read a heart-warming special note of tribute to her fellow caregivers. Pastor Henry Manansala provided encouraging words through his message along with insightful statistics about Filipino caregivers in Canada. A popular Filipino game of “Pinoy Henyo” lightened the mood, thanks to Sister Alpha Espenilla. A small token of appreciation for each caregiver was distributed by Pastors Henry Manansala and Ramiro Basical.

The fellowship ended with a nice sit-down snack of pansit, puto, kutsinta and lumpia.VoV

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FFBC Pastors Fellowship

The annual pastors and elders get-together Christmas fellowship among First Filipino Baptist Church’s offspring was held on Monday, November 23. Once again, North Victory Baptist Church hosted the dinner event. Despite the absence of many invited participants, there was a really good turnout of 19 members. NVBC was represented by our very own Pastor Henry Manansala, Pastor Ramir Basical, Brothers Gerry Manabat, Eric de Guzman and Hudson Marchbank.

This year’s affair was unique in that it had an unusual twist. Sharing of praises and thanksgiving to God and airing of urgent prayer requests were still heard but instead of only one pastor assigned to lead the devotion, Pastor Henry asked for volunteers who wished to share their best Christmas message, whether previously preached or heard from somebody. Sermon outlines were shared with emphasis on their respective three main points within three minutes each. As the master of ceremonies, Pastor Ramir took the initiative to speak first, followed by Pastor Elbern Latorilla, and then Pastor Henry. All the speakers gave permission to have their sermons be used in other churches especially this Yuletide Season. The purpose of which is to help out some church leaders in giving out inspiration during the commemoration of the Saviour’s birth. One of the sermon titles was “The Seekers” with reference to Matthew 2, which spoke of the circumstances surrounding Jesus Christ’s birth and zeroed in

on the characteristics of the three wise men. Pastor Elbern stressed on the meaning of grace and mercy by defining each term. Grace is the giving of what we do not deserve while mercy means not giving what we deserve, with the text pointed to the book of Luke, chapter 1, verses 46-56, with the title “Mary’s Song.”

Pastor Zaldy Castillo led the closing prayer and said grace for the food. Acknowledgment was expressed for the efforts and commitment of the NVBC Social Committee headed by Sister Mary Glen Buelo and Brother Joel Corpuz, who took care of the mouth-watering bounty for physical nourishment. Fellowship ensued while eating where everyone got to know each other better and kept abreast of the current events going on in the churches represented.VoV

The Women’s Ministry extended their wings by creating Mom’s Ministry headed by our Sisters Thess Isidro and Trixie Montoya. The vision of this Ministry is to connect with God and with the mothers and wives of the church in a unique way. Their inaugural celebration was held last October 11, 2015. Sister Trixie Montoya was the speaker of the group and she explained what encouraged them to create this ministry. She said “Sometimes as a wife and mother, we need someone to lighten our load.

The first time she met Sister Thess Isidro she immediately felt the love of God from her. Through this experience she began to have passion in her heart to share it to the other women in the church. Thus the ministry was born. More testimonies were shared and common questions about their husbands and children’s behaviour were discussed and answered. Moreover, Sister Chinky read a letter from Sister Thess’ friend Dawn White. She is an In-House Consultant for Group Publishing. Her letter conveyed

encouragement and empowerment among women to reach their potential for Christ.

Sister Thess also suggested the logo and t-shirt to the members. It was a beautiful day indeed. Good job ladies! We know through God’s help, you will help more mothers and wives in the future. To

God be the Glory!VoV

Inauguration of Mom’s Ministry

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Newsletter Year-End Fellowship “You can make anything by writing” (C.S. Lewis)

The Voice of Victory Newsletter staff is one of the smallest and least visible ministries in NVBC, consisting only of a dozen members. They may be “small” and “invisible” but their work for the Lord has one of the biggest influences in the church. Their articles have kept members in the loop with current church events; they have helped encourage and uplift readers through Christian Living, pastoral articles, Missions Connect, and many others; they also help preserve many memories within the church for generations to come.

Equally important as the articles themselves are the editors, writers, lay-out artists, contributors who are behind each written masterpiece. On November 28, 2015, these creative artists gathered in the NVBC sanctuary for their annual Christmas Fellowship. Attended by 9 staff and their families, the fellowship, emceed by Sister Grace Corpuz, began with a prayer by Pastor Ramiro Basical, followed by a fun, engaging hand-clapping action song by Sister Emily Flores, that tested everybody’s hand-eye coordination. Five, short but equally challenging games from Sister Grace Corpuz elicited competitiveness from the players. Brother Gerry Manabat provided thought-provoking devotion as to why we involve ourselves in ministries. He left the group with a self-check question: Are we giving our best? The remainder of the time was allotted for suggestions, comments and future plans as the ministry moves into the new year. Pastors Henry Manansala and Ramiro Basical offered much needed words of encouragement to the staff. Pastor Henry spoke briefly about the importance of the power of the pen and the impact of the written words.

The group also took time to express their appreciation for the outgoing editor-in-chief, Sister Mylene Mallari, outgoing (slowly)

lay-out artist, Sister Cristina Queddeng, and outgoing writer, Brother Gerry Manabat, for their love, hard work and dedication to the ministry. VoV wishes all of them the best in their future

ministry endeavours!VoV

Hallelujah Night Every year NVBC hosts Hallelujah Night where children and their parents gather in the church for a time of fun and games. But it is not only for a time of fun and games, but also a learning opportunity as well, wherein the origin of Halloween is explained. Moreover, the event reinforces what our response and role will be as followers of Christ. These lessons were not only taught during the message from God’s Word, but through worship in the arts. The FFBC Artistic Group ministered through puppets, hand-mimes

and drama-skits rendering a clear and overarching message that we are all sinners and need Christ to save us from our sins.

It was truly a unique experience and captured the attention of both children and adults alike.

As in previous years, Hallelujah Night at NVBC proved to be an amazing and spiritually enriching evening, as well as a safe and

fruitful alternative.VoV

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Missions Added four new missionaries on top of the current list. Started supporting three international ministries - The Voice

of the Martyrs, Gospel for Asia and Gideon’s International - through annual financial giving.

Multimedia Pastor Henry, Brother Jef, Brother Bong, and Sister Helen

attended a web seminar in Cambridge, Ontario on November 5.

Church website has a brand new look. The new design is more responsive and is now compatible to any devices. Visitors can now subscribe to sermons and church newsletters.

A new projector was installed in the back of the sanctuary for the choir, song leader and pastor’s reference.

A speaker was installed in the kitchen area.

Plans for 2016: Purchase a portable mixer for camps and second-floor

events as well as a new console Installation of speakers on the second floor

Benevolence Financial assistance were given to those whose families or

relatives were sick or have passed away.

Social Committee Brand new speaker was installed inside the kitchen recently

to help enable social committee members to hear the audio from the sanctuary while working in the kitchen.

The Social Committee continues to strive to be environmentally-conscious by imposing specific rules regarding proper garbage disposals by providing separate containers for different kinds of wastes. They are asking all members for their full cooperation and strict adherence to this endeavour.

Members were also kept busy all throughout the year with different church functions such as child dedication, pastoral fellowship and ministry events.

Newcomers $25 grocery gifts cards were given to newly migrated

families

Building Renovation Old boiler has been replaced with brand new one. Church leaders and men volunteered their time to do

“spring cleaning” on the second floor; they rented a construction bin to dispose unwanted construction materials, old toys, etc.

Plan for 2016: New location for the library Install brand new fire exit doors on the second floor in order

to bring it up to building code.

Baptism and Tenets 7 new members were baptized at the camp.

Tenets class is a mandatory class given to non-members who want to join the NVBC family.

Evangelism Many opportunities for evangelism both inside

and outside the church through tracts distribution during the Church Picnic, Family Camp, VBS, Bible Study or Cell Group settings.

There were other more personal occasions where unsaved friends, family/loved-ones were invited and had the opportunity to hear the Gospel message. In 2015, NVBC had 7 baby dedications, 3 birthdays, 1 wedding, and a funeral.

During Pastor Henry’s visit to the Philippines, he was given a number of evangelistic opportunities to share with the relatives of NVBC’s members.

There were even more gospel opportunities through our Maple Outreach, which in turn had recently started another outreach in Guelph. Praise the Lord!

Young At Heart Plans for 2016: Summer Field Trip in the US Fellowship on December 4, 2016

Care Sent 4 balikbayan boxes containing canned goods and used

clothings to missionaries in Ilocos, Mindanao, Visayas and Rizal province

Men’s They held their first very unique fellowship on August 15,

2015 with the theme “Home and Character Building.” The meeting was consisted of two parts: breakfast fellowship prepared by our very own Pastor Henry Manansala and repairing things inside the church wherein each attendee was assigned to do a specific area in the building.

New and practical ideas were mentioned to enhance the future meetings of the Men’s Ministry.

Youth Youth Camp 2015 occurred in June at New Life Camp in

Priceville, Ontario. The event was attended by approximately 70 young people.

NVBC youth joined the first ever Praise Christian Family Church Basketball Tournament. Their team “Godsquad” won the 1st Runner up trophy.

Annual Hallelujah Night on October 31 was attended by children and youth alike to gain awareness of the dangers surrounding this annual event.

Music Praise God for the huge success of the “The Cross Changes

Everything” Easter Cantata held in April. The Victory Choir, under Brother Gairus Boteja’s direction, also performed at Maple Baptist Church, NVBC’s daughter church, and the community church led by Pastor Tondo.

MINISTRY UPDATES

2015

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The choir also had the privilege of a voice lesson training from Trina Castaños

(graduate of University of Toronto Conservatory of Music). The lesson gave everybody the opportunity to gain more knowledge about music. The music ministry was also blessed with a new

piano, guitar, and a beat box.

Singles Singles By Faith (SBF) ministry rejoices with Mery Garmino, a

Bible school student whom they were supporting, as she graduated this 2015.

SBF ladies ministered through special song number during the worship service entitled “Rejoice in the Lord.”

SBF ministry had a wonderful outdoor fellowship in the summer at Downsview Park with the theme “LinkedUp: Loving God with your time, talents, and treasures.”

They were also blessed to be part of the youth ministry’s “Matters of the Heart” fellowship.

An inspiring devotion was shared by Jim Thompson.

Library End of the year inventory - borrowed library materials have

to be returned to the Librarian until 3rd week of December 2015 for the year-end inventory.

New DVDs and Books - newly purchased library materials for this year are available to be taken out after the inventory - please ask the librarian for further details.

SHARE and DONATE DRIVE - should anyone wish to share and donate Christian DVDs and reading materials, he/she is more than welcome to do so as long as the items are in good condition.

Newsletter Annual Christmas Fellowship was held on November 28,

2015. The group also allotted time to discuss current issues and make suggestions for improvement for 2016.

New Interim editor-in-chief - Sister Emily Flores The ministry is also planning to purchase newer version of

the current software as it is in need of an update.

CEM The Christian Education Ministry held many exciting events

all throughout the year. During CEM Emphasis Sundays, there were Bible quizzes, revisiting of old/well-known Sunday School songs, memory verse competition and more.

In the summer, Vacation Bible School ran for 5 days, up from 3 the previous year. Then in the Fall, the Hallelujah Night program was truly unique as the FFBC Artistic Ministry rendered a hand-mime to “People Need the Lord,” and puppeteers explained the real meaning of Halloween.

CEM children’s ministry presented “The Best Christmas Present Ever” emphasizing the real meaning of Christmas – Jesus’ birth.

Ladies The ladies participated in a cook-off on August 11, 2015

entitled “So You Think You Can Cook” fellowship and winners were chosen from various food categories. This event kicked-off the Ladies Ministry with the official inaugural fellowship held on October 11, 2015.

In preparation for Christmas 2015, the Ladies Ministry launched the Operation Christmas Child, a first for NVBC. Praise God for a total of 90 Operation Christmas Child boxes donated by church members.

Follow-Up There was a change in the follow-up approach in 2015.

Instead of contacting guests via telephone call after their visit to NVBC, Pastor Henry would do his best to speak to the visitors immediately after the service.

Pastor Henry reaches out to members who have not attended church for some time.

Prayer request - to find a more efficient way to follow-up with both members and visitors.

Camp Family Camp 2015 was held for the first time in Upper

Canada Camp, in Orangeville Ontario. There were over 120 attendees over the course of 3 days and 2 nights. During this time, we also celebrated the addition of 7 new members through water baptism.

We also welcomed new brothers and sisters in the Lord that responded positively to the Gospel message. Four Youth visitors put their faith in Jesus during the camp. Praise God the body of Christ continues to grow.

Financial/Budget In 2015, NVBC saw an increase not only in membership but

tithes and offering as well. It is because of God’s people, who give their tithes and offering faithfully that NVBC was able to support more missionaries. Moreover, God answered our prayers in providing us with the financial means to complete some much-needed renovations in the church.

Cell Group Pastor Ramir had a chance to visit each group on a bi-weekly

basis and was blessed for being able to cover and visit them all.

In 2015, three elements were implemented to the cell group’s structure for the improvement and betterment of the existing framework of the program: memory verses, games and interactive Bible study.

Cell group leaders have shown not only enthusiasm in realizing these goals but also a commitment and dedication in helping one another in times of need of others in the spirit of servanthood in the Lord.

Ushering Ushers are instructed to guide guests to their seats and to

conduct the collection of offering every Sunday. After each Sunday service, ushers reconvene to discuss their

plans and to make changes (if there are any) to be well prepared for the next week’s service.VoV

MINISTRY UPDATES

2015

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Walking through the Valley of the Shadow of Death By Sister Chinky Manansala - Advisor, Voice of Victory What does it mean to walk through the valley of the shadow of death? The psalmist in full confidence declared: “I will fear no evil for thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me...” Have you ever been in a situation where your journey through the gloomy paths of life cast a shadow of fear and apprehension in your soul?

Returning from a holiday after a short visit to my relatives in California, I got a call from my specialist about the lab test taken a few days before my trip. The doctor who wanted to see me the soonest time possible made me suspicious that there must be something wrong with the biopsy, based on the urgency that I sensed from the nurse. Catching my breath in between tears and walking, I reached the clinic where all of my fears were confirmed. I found out I was suffering from what they call complex hyperplasia with atypia, the last stage to developing endometrial cancer. The doctor suggested immediate surgery due to the proliferation of abnormal cells in my reproductive system. The prognosis didn’t look good, I was told.

The days following my visit to the doctor were full of anxieties as I await the date of my surgery within 5 weeks. Added to my mental anguish was the fact that I was suffering from severe anemia due to blood loss that I sustained brought about by my medical condition. I began to sink in despair in the days that followed as fear of uncertainties overwhelmed me. The thought of finding cancer at the end of the surgery terrified me. I would put on a brave front whenever my family asked me how I am feeling so they do not have to worry about me. Because of this pretence, I suffered in silence. In the stillness of the night I would cry myself to sleep and wake up to mounting terror and frustrations. The emotional sufferings of the author of Psalms became real to me. As King David wrote in Psalm 6:6, “I am worn out from sobbing. All night I flood my bed with weeping, drenching it with my tears.” In my despair I asked God why He is allowing things like this to happen when in fact He said in John 10:10, “I have come that I may have life and that I may have it more abundantly.” I bargained this was far from being life abundant and that sickness should never be part of it.

Hitting rock bottom at one point in our lives is an unwanted experience that we all dread to face, but this can bring us to greater heights in terms of our faith in God. As the psalmist says in Psalm 117:71, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted

that I may learn your statutes.” Yes, even David a mighty warrior of God had been afflicted with illness but he believed God uses physical afflictions to teach us how to depend on Him alone and trust Him completely when we walk through rocky patches of life, when sunshine hides behind the looming horizon of doubt and fear. He is there waiting and wanting to see you through, strengthening you every step of the way through His unending mercies that are new every morning.

King David, one of my favourite characters in the bible mirrored the same dilemma that I had. He too, was familiar with physical and emotional sufferings and yet he came out victorious in all of his spiritual battles. His secret lies in his constant dependence on the Word of God knowing that the He will

answer him in his deepest trouble. David says in Psalm 40:1, “I waited patiently for the Lord, and He inclined to

me, and heard my cry.”

The day I realized a child of God like me should never walk in defeat and self-pity, I prayed earnestly to God to reveal more of Himself to me and help me walk by faith when my eyes fail to see His leading.

And God most wonderfully did! He would talk to me through His Word as if I was speaking to Him face to

face. Daily I would feel His powerful presence whenever I draw near to God and as I approached the day of my surgery, my fears began to subside. I will never forget the comfort that the following verse had given me in Isaiah 58:8-9 “Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer, You shall cry and He will say, ‘Here I am.’” What an assurance that not only will He restore my health but He, my Righteous God will go before me and lead this battle for me! He said I will cry and He will be right there for me. What a comfort it brought to my agonizing soul!

Finally came the big day and I got up as early as 4:30 in the

morning, had my personal quiet reflection and morning prayer.

Just before I headed out the door, I peeked through the rooms

of my sleeping boys. I quietly said a prayer for both to keep

them safe and watch over them while I was away and

recuperating in the hospital and should anything go wrong with

me, to preserve their faith until we are all reunited in the future

glory. For some unexplained reason, I did not have agitation at

that moment of what is to come whether errors of science

occur in my surgery, all I know is that no matter what happened

to me I am safe in the hands of my God. There is no safer place

that I could think of other than in His presence.

At the hospital, moments before I walked through the aisle

leading to the operating room, my husband who is always by

my side asked me if I would like to read emails from friends and

church family who were sending their prayers, support and well

(Continued on page 14)

Chris t ian

T’was the night before Christmas, and all gathered there At 432 Rogers Road, bringing gifts, and dishes made with love and care

Our MC’s, Brucelle and Lawrence opened the night with great fun and cheer Singing songs of praise to the Lord with brethren both far and near

We continued the laughter with a familiar game

To win the most rounds in Family Feud was the aim And so it was the Children and Elder’s wives that went on to the next

The final and last round with questions not so complex

Both were winners and everyone had fun As we listened to each Bible Study group sing one by one

Last but not least the Word of God was shared Reminding us the real meaning of Christmas as the Bible declared

Jesus came as a baby, He was both God and man Which was all part of God’s perfect and divine plan

We experience joy, laughter, hope and love

All because of our Father, who art in heaven above

So we say never miss the real meaning of this season Always remember that Jesus is the reason.

Chr i stmas Eve S erv ic e Poem By Sister Emily Labro Flores

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have been born on December 25th, around the winter season. He had to be born during a different time of the year.

Furthermore, the cue to the time of Christ’s birth is found back in Luke 1:5 which affirms Zechariah as a priest serving in the temple. In light of Jewish religious tradition, the historical background of the passage leads us to the time cycle where Zechariah was serving in the month of June, as equivalence to our modern calendar. During this period, the promise of the birth of their son, John, was given to Zechariah through an angel. So, in verses 23 and 24, we can see that soon after this, Elizabeth conceived. So she must have conceived John likely in the month of June. Counting nine months later, John must have been born in March of the following year. Another thing we need to notice in Luke chapter 1 account is that six months after Elizabeth’s pregnancy, the angel Gabriel visited Mary to deliver a message that she will miraculously conceive a child. This only means that John the Baptist was six months older that Jesus. Think about it, if John was born within the month of March, this makes Jesus’ birthday sometime in the month of

September.

Despite of the fact that Jesus was not born December 25th and that Christmas originated as a pagan holiday, we Christians should still celebrate the birth of Jesus on December 25. What’s the reason? It is simply because Jesus Christ redeems everything. If He can redeem humanity, He can also redeem events full of evil and wickedness and transform it into something that will give glory and honour to God. We know by experience that this is exactly what Christ did to us. Are we not going to celebrate Christmas just because of its pagan origin? No way! That’s even more reason we should celebrate it because we have seen and we experienced Jesus as our Saviour and Redeemer of all things. Yes, we admit how Christmas originated and has a dark side attached to it, but when we contemplate on how God turned the event into something totally different then we can say December 25th is a special day so dear to the Father and so dear to us. Every Christmas time, what I can celebrate is not only the fact that Jesus was born in the world but also the fact that He is the Redeemer and Saviour for the world.

Suggested book to read, “Creation to Bethlehem” by Ken HamVoV

(Continued from page 2...Heaven’s Manna)

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Maple Men’s Christmas Fellowship By Pastor Jun Nava - MBC Volunteer

The hard working men of Maple Baptist Church were treated to a much needed relaxation and fun through a Christmas fellowship headed by Pastor Jun Nava. Not only did Pastor Jun organize the event on December 5, 2015 but he also opened his home to his fellow workers. The event was also attended by two first time visitors, one from Bathurst and Steeles area and the other one was Pastor Rene Salvatierra, a Filipino missionary to Indonesia under the Word of Life Ministry and a friend of Pastor Arnel Lindongan. Providentially, the two pastors met at the Hudson Taylor’s 150 years of Legacy Soul-

Winning Training.

The emcee, Brother Alex Ibay, also lead the games and singing. The devotion was shared by Pastor Jun Nava from 1 Peter 3:4, which was entitled, “A Man of Great Price.” Pastor Rene also took time to share his mission work in Indonesia.

Steaming hot pot served as the sustenance for the hungry group of men.VoV

Glorifying God This Christmas by Narciso Tuyadang - Pastor, Vaughan Outreach

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!” Luke 2:14

It seems difficult to sing or say such words when you ponder upon what’s going on around us and around the world. People are worried about the uncertainties caused by terror attacks, political problems, economic problems, social and moral decay. Many others are still grieving the death and destruction caused by wars, gun violence and natural calamities. Rick Reed once said “Chaos and carnage make it hard to feel any Christmas cheer. All is not calm, all is not bright.”

In the Bible, the time into which Jesus was born is difficult as well. It is depressing in the part of the Israelites. First, they were under the Roman empire wherein freedom was non-existent. Second, they were under the rule of a brutal king, King Herod. And third, Mary and Joseph were like homeless refugees far from home. This made it hard for others to believe that the baby about to be born is the Promised Saviour.

Inspite of all of these difficult situations, the good news with hopeful words of which the angel proclaimed to the shepherd should inspire us, that the one true hope for peace was the one born in Bethlehem on that first Christmas night.

For this, let us give glory to God and spread the gospel which will give real peace and goodwill toward all mankind. Let us be encouraged by the example of the shepherds in Luke 2:15-20 who after hearing the best news went to see Jesus excitedly after which they went from place to place to tell others what they have heard and seen. As a result, people wondered and in verse 20, they returned glorifying and praising God.

Just like the shepherds, how can we glorify God this Christmas? Let us give our whole self to Jesus who was born and has given Himself wholly as an offering for the forgiveness of our sins and let us go and convey this real love story to our family, acquaintances, friends, co-workers, neighbours and everybody around us.VoV

On the Bright Side

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MBC Pastors and Workers Appreciation Day by Sister Olah Pisay - MBC Volunteer

October 18, 2015 marked the day when Maple Baptist Church expressed their gratitude to all the workers who serve the Lord faithfully in this outreach since it was conceived two years ago. The program was facilitated by the Singles ministry. We praise God for those men and women who have been giving their time, treasure and talents in their services for the Lord. Currently, MBC is blessed with 15 active ministries.

During the program, each ministry was called to the front and was presented to the congregation as a way of showing appreciation and thanking them. Being the host of the program, a representative from the Singles ministry read words of appreciation gathered

from friends and families to each worker. Pastor Nars concluded the occasion with a prayer, encouraging and reminding each Christian believer the importance of commitment and submission and that the labour for the Lord is high and it gives glorious blessings. He also reiterated that there are many people who need the gospel and everyone has a place to fit in and to be used by God in a wonderfully rewarding way.

Pastor Nars ended the program with the Maple Outreach’s favourite verse found in 1 Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”VoV

MBC Ladies Christmas Fellowship

The Ladies Christmas Fellowship was held on December 12, 2015 at the residence of Brother Rommel and Sister Analyn Queddeng. Twenty eight ladies attended the event, two of which are regular visitors. The program was emceed by Sisters Olah, Anna Marie and Gemma Banglag. Game masters, Sisters Malou and Au, helped break the ice by introducing new and fun games which were enjoyed by everyone. Singing of Christmas carols and rendering of special numbers from the Nava’s and Sister Nancy added delight to the occasion. The event was

completed with a spiritual feeding from Sister Melisa Tuyadang. Her message, “The Fragrance of a Godly Woman” from Mark 14:1-9 described what a godly woman should be in whatever role she has in the community, whether as a mother, parent, employee, or a citizen.

As a thank you, words of appreciation and tokens were handed to Sister Melisa, MBC Pastor’s wife, and Sister Analyn Queddeng, MBC Chairman’s wife.VoV

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MBC Ladies Apple Picking Fellowship

On a bright day of October 10th, 46 ladies boarded the rented First Student bus to Silmaril Farm in Grimsby, Ontario. Other ladies and their families joined the bus riders in their own vehicles. The ladies and their families enjoyed the farm’s private ambiance where they were educated on the different kinds of apples. After two and a half hours of apple picking, they were treated with some hot apple cider. What a refreshing way to end the apple picking session!

The group proceeded to the Floral Clock at Niagara Parkway for some photo opportunities then continued to Queenston Heights Park for their luncheon fellowship. After partaking in their sumptuous lunch, the ladies had some singing, games and sharing time. Sharing time mainly focused on thanksgiving as it was the Thanksgiving weekend. The fellowship culminated with a devotion on Proverbs 31:25 shared by Sister Cheche Queddeng. The rest of the day ended with a tour of the Niagara Falls.

The MBC ladies will never get tired of apple picking and trip to Niagara Falls because

of different apple picking venues and the warm fellowship attended by new participants who are mostly newcomers in

Canada.VoV

wishes (and to which I am forever grateful) for my upcoming

surgery. I gladly opened my email to find a single unopened

letter sent by a friend who did not even know of my surgery.

The email says, “God’s message for you today: Jeremiah 29:11,

‘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.’” I believe with all my heart that it was not a coincidence

receiving this verse from a friend who does not regularly send

email. It was by God’s appointment that she sent it to me to

soothe me at the time when I was in dire need of spiritual

support and to reassure me about His plan and intentions that

He will preserve my life until all the tasks that He has assigned

me in this life are completed and that I can look at the future

with overwhelming joy! My heart gave a sudden leap when my

name was called by the nurse and led me to a room where the

surgery would take place. As I sat up on the table, I found

myself silently reciting Psalm 23 in its fullness. Peace flooded

my soul and it was the peace that the world cannot give. It was

the peace that passes all human understanding. Yes, I may have

walked through the valley of dark uncertainty, but one thing is

for sure, I never walked alone. Jesus, the Shepherd of my soul

walked with me and delivered me from the valley of the

shadow of death.VoV

(Continued from page 10...Christian Living)

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MBC Hallelujah Night By Pastor Jun Nava - MBC Volunteer

Praise God for the concluded Hallelujah Night! MBC was able to hold it on Friday night, October 30 at the Patricia Kemp Hall. The program started from 6 pm and ended at 8 pm. Pastor Arnel Lindongan opened up in prayer. Pastor Jun Nava continued on with the congregational singing. The program was divided into two parts as there were 16 performers on that night. After the 8th performer, an intermission in the form of a game was held, courtesy of Brother Alex and Sister Malou Ibay.

Pastor Nars Tuyadang led the devotion concerning the origin of Halloween. Brother Romel and other brethren provided pizza treat for the children.

We praise God for the opportunity for our children as well as the adults to

sing praises and play different musical instrument for the Lord. What a great way to redirect our next generation to glorify the Lord rather than celebrating the pagan practice.VoV

MBC New Members Fellowship by Brother Romel Queddeng - MBC Volunteer

Maple Baptist Church held its very first welcoming fellowship to new members on November 22, 2015. The event was originally intended for the newest members of the congregation but the organizers decided to include all those who have become members since the church’s inception - from Brother Walter Valentin, MBC’s very first new member, up to the most recent batch of membership class.

The fellowship had a 6-fold purpose:

1. To gather all new members including their families (unsaved or not) at a designated time with the purpose of getting to know them a little bit more.

2. To formally welcome new members and host a free dinner party for them.

3. To introduce the church leaders, their roles and ministries and to present their family members (wives and children) as well.

4. To share positive and negative experiences about what it was like living in Canada and tips on how to avoid the negatives.

5. To emphasize the importance of being part of the family of God where love and care from Him resonates from His

children.

6. To share the church direction and vision.

But due to lack of time, the organizers were not able to present all six items.

The program was emceed by Brother Romel Queddeng. Brother Jene Cardinal, an MBC leader, welcomed the crowd with an opening speech followed by a word from Pastor Nars Tuyadang. Brother Alex Ibay introduced to the new members the “official game of NVBC/MBC” – the 7UP – which solicited plenty of laughter and fun from everyone. Afterwards, new members were given the chance to acquaint themselves with one another by stating their names, where they came from, spiritual age, and an adjective that best describes them. The leaders, in turn, did the same by introducing themselves and their families, their church roles, ministries and experiences. They also offered words of advice for the new members. Overall, the event had a great turnout with an attendance of approximately 40 to 50 participants.

The fellowship ended with a mouth-watering feast courtesy of the leaders of MBC.VoV

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EDITORIAL STAFF

Henry Manansala Senior Pastor

Ramir Basical Assistant Pastor

Narciso Tuyadang Pastor - Vaughan Outreach

Benny Balai Deacon/Liaison

Chinky Manansala Advisor

Emily Flores Interim Editor-in-Chief

Grace Salgado-Corpuz Associate Editor

Lalaine Javier Writer

Marie Joy Monsale Writer

Helen Barayuga Writer/Layout Artist

Cristina Queddeng Layout Artist

NORTH VICTORY BAPTIST CHURCH

Address: 432 Rogers Road, Toronto, ON M6M 1A4

Telephone Numbers: (647) 770-0691 / (905) 686-7620

Email: info@northvictory.org

For more info, please visit www.northvictory.org

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

Prayer Meeting every Wednesday at 7:00 pm

Youth Fellowship every 4th Friday at 6:30 pm

every 1st, 2nd & 3rd Sundays at 2:00 pm

Sunday School for all ages every Sunday at 10:00 am

English Worship Service every Sunday at 11:00 am

On December 20th, immediately after the worship service, the congregation proceeded with their Christmas Fellowship at Patricia Kemp Community Centre gym. Brother Jimmy Queddeng had a very long list of performers ready to show off their special talents. To start with, the Belarmino boys sang Feliz Navidad with their guitars followed by the Ladies with their hymnal song “Once in Royal David’s City.” The talent show continued as each was called simultaneously. The Life cell group’s J’s Choir sang Christmas medley with a saxophone followed by another medley rendered by the Singles fellowship.

The next batch of performers were children playing their musical instruments. AJ Antonio played “Jingle Bells” on piano. Janika Queddeng played the same song on piano too. Christmel Tuyadang played on piano “Amazing Grace” with her dad singing. Janela Queddeng played on piano too. Afterwards, Janaya, played the flute.

The next series of performers were in groups. It was started with the Men’s quartet followed by a Quintet, a mix of 3 men and 2 women. The children sang again their special number rendered during the worship service followed by the youth group. Towards the end of the talent show, the family of Brother Romel Queddeng rendered their “A Living Sacrifice” song with an appropriate introduction of the song saying that our lives as Christians are a living sacrifice. Pastor Jun Nava played his guitar accompanied by his harmonica. The finale was rendered by Nanay Salvacion Queddeng with her rendition of “O Holy Night.”

The MBC was full of talented people that the show lasted for an hour and a half. Brother Jimmy announced that the list is now open for the talent show for next year’s Christmas fellowship.

Pastor Nars had a short encouraging talk and closed the fellowship with

a prayer. As any Filipino gathering, the event ended with a sumptuous dinner.

Christmas celebration among Christians is basically an epitome of worship to our God, our Lord and Saviour, as expressed in the talent show of the MBC brethren across all age groups. We will never get tired of singing songs to show our thankfulness to our God who gave His only begotten Son for the world to be saved and enjoy everlasting life with Him. Happy birthday Lord Jesus and come back

soon!VoV

Maple Baptist Church Christmas Fellowship