"We know that all things work for the good of those who love God, who are called according to His purpose." Rom 8:28.

Out of painful situations that the Lord allowed us to experience, He accomplished His purpose - my wife's conversion throught the death of her sister, and mine through our daughter's illness. Truly "Just as you know not how the breath of life fashions the human frame in the monther's womb, so you know not the work of God which He is accomplishing in the universe." Eccl 11:5. Out of thanksgiving to the Lord for healing our daughter from cancer, a prayer meeting took place at our residence. To have subsequent prayer meetings was not our plan because at that time, we were just starting in the Charismatic Renewal. However, God had other plans.

To help us in our spiritual growth, the Lord sent very anointed teachers. Even when we were a small group of 25-30, meeting in one of the small halls under the church, the Lord constantly nourished by by His Work through many speakers. We thank the Lord for all of them. Soon the Lord added to our numbers the small group of 25-30 became a group of 150-200! GLORY TO GOD!!!

Through the trials and tribulations, testings, and persecutions, and as we went through the pains of growing, God sustained us. He still does.

He has chosen the people to form the Heart of Jesus Prayer Community - people of different backgrounds, nationalities, ages, personalities, and talents because He has a purpose for each one. "It was not you who chose Me, but I who chose you and appointed you..." John 13:16.It is in community that we learn patience, understanding, empathy, compassion, and forgiveness. It is in community that we learn to carry each other's burden and encourage one another, to build up and not to tear down. He sent to the community committed members who serve without seeking self-glorification. People know that it is the Lord they are serving through the community and that their reward will come from the Lord "God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him by your service, past and present to His holy people." Heb 6:10.

Together we will continue to glorify the Lord by using the talents and gifts He has given us. We continue to love even the unlovable, those He has placed in our path always keeping in mind that in every situation, God has a purpose. "Let us not become tired of doing good; for if we do not give up, the time will come when we will reap the harvest. So then, as often as we have the chance, we should do good to everyone, and especially to those who belong to the family in the faith." Gal 6:9-10

- Bro. Nerio Katigbak
Head Servant, Heart of Jesus Community