Highlights of the China Goodwill Games

Highlights of the China Goodwill Games

Greetings from Xiamen, China

We arrive in Xiamen, China on April 17, Thursday around 11:45 am without the team. Due to immigration problem, they were not allowed to board the plane except for the four (4) officials who were given clearance. The team had to catch the next plane the following day. Good that the Chinese Basketball Association in Xiamen understood the situation so they reset our first game the following day.

The following day when the team arrived from the Philippines, I met the team for a short meeeting at the hotel before we went to our game. They were very happy to have a team chaplain. Sharing the gospel to these young players was really a great opportunity. I had the chance to share some life stories of great basketball players who dedicated their lives to the Lord.

Our host also gave us a tour around Xiamen. This province is also part of the China Economy Zone that is why a lot of construction especially bridges are being built. We also visited some historical sites such as the turtle island, piano museum and other places.

On our fifth day, the boys had the chance to do some shopping especially buying some personal souvenirs. But before we went to the airport, I had another opportunity to minister to the team in my room. Another big challenge was that upon our check-in, we were told that three (3) of our players could not board the plane because they overbooked the flight. So we prayed that the Lord will do something. I could sense that the three players were starting to feel bad. I just continued to pray in my spirit that God will intervene in this situation. Praise God! the airline told us later that all of us will be able to go home.

Upon our arrival in the Philippines midnight of April 20, Sunday, I told the boys to remember God always in their lives especially the blessings they have received from Him.

I went home very tired but joyful that another opportunity was given to me to represent the country and also minister to the team.

China Goodwill Games

On April 17 to 21, 2008 the Basketball Association of the Philippines (BAP) will be participating in the China Goodwill Games in Xiamen, China. A Collegiate Basketball Selection Team will represent the Philippines in this tournament.

Last week I was asked to be part of the delegation and be the Team Chaplain during the trip. After praying about it, I believed this is a great opportunity for me to minister to the players and officials while we participate in this prestigious tournament.

I am looking forward to this trip and praying that God will touch the lives of our filipino players.

Please remember to pray for us during those days while we are in Xiamen. I look forward to the praise report that I will share with you after the trip.

Ptr. Gary & Grace

Another great year for Stephen Christian!

Grace and I once again marched with Stephen during his final recognition day last March 31, Monday at his school. During the entire ceremony, I was just thanking the Lord for another great year for Stephen. He has really worked so hard studying, learning so many things, joining as many activities in school, etc. And the day has come for him to be given an award.

Stephen was even given the chance to carry the school flag during the opening march. Stephen received numerous awards in Academics and Activities that is being offered by the school.

Once again we are thankful to the Lord for Stephen, indeed he is our "miracle baby".

We love you very much Stephen! We are so proud of you son...

God bless you!

Papa & Mommy Grace

Bible Open Air Ministries

Last March 26, Wednesday I flew from Cebu City to Manila to meet Arthur Williams, Bible Open Air Ministries International Director together with his Philippine Staff to discuss the final preparation for the coming of Steve Lillis, former world pool champion from the US for a possible ministry trip in the Philippines. Steve is also the President/Founder of Gospel Trict Shots Ministries based in the US.

Joining me in that meeting was my field director Richard Henderson together with some BOAM staff in the Philippines and India. First we discussed our ministries, then Art Williams shared about Steve and GTS. I was excited to know that Steve has a burden to come to the Philippines to share his personal testimony thru the sport of billiards/pool. I never imagined that God can use billiards to reach out the lost for Christ. Hallelujah! Steve also knows some of the filipino world pool champions the like of Efren "Bata" Reyes, Dyango Bustamante, Noel Alcano and the others. No wonder the Philippines now is considered the Billiard capital of the world.

So we are now finalizing the details of Steve Lillis coming to the Philippines. Looking forward for this exciting ministry.

Please help us pray that God will use tremendously Steve Lillis in reaching the people for Christ.