“We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing” (2 Thessalonians 1:3).
These words fitly describe my thoughts and feelings as I reflect on my recent trip to Oro Bible College (OBC) in the Philippines. The immediate reason for going was to film interviews with students and alumni for next year’s Penny Crusade promotional material. A significant amount of your Penny Crusade giving supports the ministry of OBC. OBC’s mission is to “equip the saints for the work of ministry” (Ephesians 4:12). OBC prepares men and women for formal and informal positions of ministry. Many graduates serve as pastors in the Advent Christian churches of the Philippines. Others serve in various church leadership roles. Still others find their ministry within careers such as teaching, law enforcement or business. Enrollment is the highest it’s ever been. Most students come from Advent Christian churches, but OBC also has students from other evangelical theological traditions.
Exciting things are happening at OBC! There are more students than ever. These students are eager to find their place in kingdom ministry. The Philippines Advent Christian Conference (PACCI) works hand in hand with OBC, encouraging students from the churches to go to OBC for ministry preparation. In fact, one church, Tamboboan Advent Christian Church, has 10 students at OBC right now. OBC’s president, Rev. Jess Gawangon, now in his second year, brings a creative energy and willingness to try new things to the culture of OBC. Dr. Betsy Zalsos, the new academic dean, leads with a passion for character formation in the students. The addition of a fully-functioning elementary school (grades 1-5) brings a variety of ages to the campus each day. Opportunities to minister to the parents abound.
For all these reasons, we want to feature OBC’s ministry impact in next year’s Penny Crusade material. You’ll be excited to learn of the profound influence OBC has had in the lives of many Filipino ministry leaders. The Philippine Advent Christian churches are thriving, and OBC plays a significant role in this by helping to develop leaders whose lives are grounded in God’s Word and shaped by the knowledge and skills they’ve acquired. It is hard to overstate the impact of OBC.
But this trip also had personal dimensions for me. My family and I served as missionaries at OBC for a number of years. Though the trip was relatively brief, I renewed bonds of fellowship with long-time friends and colleagues. These relationships are very precious to me. It was also encouraging beyond words to see former students now serving in ministry with the love, wisdom and energy of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Be on the lookout for next year’s Penny Crusade, as we get to share the life and impact of Oro Bible College with you.
