The work of the Church continues to see progress when two important events took place in the Visayas region recently.

Cebu City
A month before the Feast of Tabernacles, a Bible study began in the city of Cebu, the premier city in the Visayas. With the help of a couple, who at this time are the only Church members in that area, the plan for a Bible study was set. A Bible seminar, the first we ever had in Cebu, was held at Pete’s Kitchenette fronting the Mercedes Hotel at Pelaez Street. Thirty-five people attended the meeting with five members of the Church present including one member from Davao who is working in Cebu. Most of the attendees are Good News subscribers and their family members. The first presentation was about “The Church Jesus Built.” Many became aware of the difference of the Church, when it was first established, and most of the churches that we find today. The second Bible seminar was held on November 26 at the same place, attended by 21 people. A lively discussion followed during the Q&A on the presentation “Three Days and Three Nights” entombment of Jesus Christ. The third seminar was supposedly scheduled on December 10, but was postponed to January because of the typhoon Seniang.

McArthur, Leyte
Another Bible study group was formed lately when a number of people from the town of Abuyog and McArthur in Leyte showed interest in the teachings and practices of the Church and began attending Sabbath services. This has officially started after our visit to the mayor of McArthur, Mr. Leonard Leria. Raul Villacote, Jose Campos and I visited him in his office last December 15. It was Jose Campos, a local leader in the Church and the registrar-OIC of McArthur, who was instrumental in our meeting with the mayor. We had a very positive and fruitful discussion on the plan to start a Bible study in the municipality. Mayor Leria has been a subscriber of The Plain Truth magazine and knows much about the Church’s doctrine and practices. He gave us the approval to use the Senior Citizens Office for the Bible study as we need it. Also, the president of the Senior Citizens gave us permission to use the venue on Saturdays. Raul Villacote conducted the first Bible study last December 23 in McArthur and had 16 people in attendance. The subject covered was “The Church that was Given the Authority to Preach the Gospel of the Kingdom in all the World.”

Truly, our Father in heaven continues to bless His work by opening more doors for His people.