In 2008, CEF staff gathered 20 kids in a small village in Calaanan, Cagayan de Oro City. The staff shared the message of salvation, and these children believed in Jesus and received Him as their Lord and personal Savior. Liezl Ababao, then children’s ministry in-charge, organized the children into a GNC held every Saturday. She discipled them in the Word of God and challenged them to grow in Christ. Three years later, the place became a relocation site for Typhoon Sendong survivors and was named Village of Hope. For years, the GNC continued, with some partners providing snacks. More children came on their own, and many parents brought their smaller children to the club.
The Golden City Alliance Fellowship (GCAF), one of the area’s faithful ministry partners, conducted a medical mission and as a result, a weekly Bible study for parents was started. Meanwhile, CEF retained the children’s ministry.
By 2014, GCAF, led by Pastor Gideon Pamatian, acting Pastor, erected a church building. The children first gathered in 2008 had become young people by this time and came to be trained by CEF to continue and help the growing children’s ministry.
Mrs. Myrla Abarabar, a committee member, organized Nourishing Children of Hope (NCOH) to provide GNCs with snacks and the children with school supplies. Livelihood programs were started for parents, supported by Cagayan Gospel Church, another ministry partner. Today, the church, Hope Fellowship Center, is an established growing church!
The children in that GNC are among the active members, some are serving with the music team. God is faithfully working in the lives of the members.
To Him be the Glory!
Ever Mamac
CEF Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental
CEF Philippines 