Reaping Behind the Bars

Lucena, SCLC | Feb 2010 — The mass jailbreak last year at The Quezon Provincial Jail makes the Church members of Lucena to think twice to continue the ministry in the jail. The prison management became strict with their security and other activities.

Fear and apprehension did not stop the Church to pursue the task of bringing the good news to the people behind bars. Through the leadership of Pastor Expie Fegalan, the District Pastor, the local church board of Lucena convened to address the needs of the inmates to hear the gospel. Bro. Phillip de Villa one of the Elders has been assigned to lead the volunteers to work for the people in the provincial jail.

God leads His people. The Religious Activity program in the jail has been opened and the regular session of Bible study has been allowed. Reorganization of the brethren in the jail was immediately considered because many members of the group have been released or transferred to the national penitentiary. Bro. Paul Garcia is installed as the president, Bro. Jerry Torres, Vice-President, Bro. Fred Gatongay, Secretary, which was later transferred to National Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.

After the twenty-one days of Bible study the “field is ready for harvest”. It was December 30, 2009 when the fifty two (52) individuals completely surrendered their life to the Master, neither as prisoners nor a slave, but as a servant of the Lord. The Bible study session aroused the spirit of others. They showed interest to be a part of the Bible study group.

The members of the church in Lucena participated in the year-end gatherings in the prison. They brought in foods and participated in the program to uplift the “spirit behind the bars”.

I believe the Lord is doing a good work in us and I know He will finish it because He says so. Friends, don’t worry if you feel discouraged when you see your sins or when no one seems to be interested about your faith. Look to Jesus and claim the promised victory of God. Despite the trials and temptations, make a decision for Christ today and you will find perfect peace and joy pouring out from the loving heart of God. Remember, you may have a nice house, a loving family and a good educational background but if you don’t have the King of Kings reigning in your heart, you won’t be satisfied.

- by Pastor Expie Fegalan | Lucena