One of the highlights of the year for our Bugkalot tribal church partners is their annual believers' conference.
Steve usually attends the conference, and this year he was one of the speakers. He was asked to speak about the responsibilities of a sending church (how they can stand behind the ones whom they have sent out).
After speaking about the topic, Steve had the people split into small groups to further discuss it. He provided some verses for them to consider together and brainstorm how to apply to their situation.
Such a blessing to see these tribal churches dig deeper into His Word and study how to better stand behind the ones they have sent out to reach other tribal groups!
Steve and some of the other leaders/speakers at the conference.
Several of our Bugkalot partners in Bicol were able to attend the conference this year; a few went home for a quick vacation, and a few of them will be taking a furlough year this next year. It was great to have so many of them at the conference as they were a big help in the discussions, but we will sure miss the ones who will home this next year!
Most of the meals were eaten outside with the larger group or near the homes where they were assigned in smaller groups. The gentleman in the gray shirt in the lower picture is a dear friend and Filipino partner. He also has a heart for empowering the Bugkalot churches, and he and Steve work closely (he also took several of the pics for this post!).
That's a LOT of rice!
This is one of Steve's closest friends up there, Pstr. Jolly. He is the chairman of the association of Bugkalot churches, and he and Steve work together a lot. He's got a heart of gold, and Steve has a deep respect for him.
On the final night of the conference, they called everyone up who has been sent out by the Bugkalot to serve in some way. Some of them have gone to Bicol, others are serving in other places. The church leaders prayed over them. Such a sweet time!
We are so thankful for the privilege to work with these amazing tribal churches to reach the tribal people of the Philippines!
