With the relentless rise in transportation costs, coupled with people seeking the truth and wanting to assemble on the Sabbath for spiritual feeding, Bible studies have been started in Valencia City, Bukidnon, last August 20, 2005 and has continued starting at 10 am every Sabbath since. Meetings are presently held at the Chardy’s Grill Restaurant located along Manolo Fortich Street, which is just a block away from the National Highway.

In that inaugural meeting the attendance reached 42. This included two visitors from Kiara, eight from Maramag, two from Davao City (including the pastor); the remaining 30 were from the Valencia area. Most of the attendees from the Valencia area include those coming from Barangay Litig in the Municipality of Musuan (about 10 km. away), and as far as the cool mountainous region of Bagawbawan (about 30 km. away). Incidentally, both of these areas do not yet have developed access roads. When there is heavy rain, the roads turn into deep mud, preventing most of them from attending.

It will be noted that Valencia City is the third congregation in the province of Bukidnon alone. The other two are Kiara and Maramag. However, this is justifiable due to the fact that it costs almost one day’s wage just for one person to attend the nearest congregation just within that province. Thus, for a couple to attend, it costs two day’s worth of wages. And it would cost more if they bring any of their children, for which most surely cannot afford. Thus, establishing a meeting place closer and central to them makes it more affordable, and nourishes their spiritual growth and strengthens them in the faith.

Sometime next year, we hope to conduct Good News Bible forums in Valencia. Please pray that God will grant an increase of people being called and prepared for the Kingdom.

—Reported by Edmond Macaraeg