PHILIPPINES—On August 25 and 26, four ministers and six deacons with their wives and one ministerial trainee heard five lectures at the Savannah Resort and Hotel in Angeles City during a day-and-a-half deacons and elders meeting with Australasia, Africa and Oceania Regional Director and Evangelist Alex Harrison and his wife.

Prior to the meeting, Mr. Harrison had been in the Philippines since August 15 to visit with Philadelphia Church of God members in the Manila, Angeles and Davao congregations, and to direct the planning of the upcoming Feast of Tabernacles.

On the morning of August 25, Mr. Harrison delivered lectures on the lessons from Nehemiah’s life and the importance of prophecy. He stressed the importance of leading by example, using the Spirit of God, having a positive outlook on prophecy, and staying close to God in doing His Work.

Quezon City deacon Alvin Cruz said, “The lectures were very uplifting and inspiring. They gave us a comprehensive description of our duties and responsibilities within our given roles. Our service is nothing compared to the servants of God, especially Nehemiah, who served Him for 36 years.”

Preaching Elder Pedrito Cara gave a lecture about God’s widows and elderly. He reminded the ministers and deacons about their crucial responsibility to look after the needs of this special group of people.

The next morning, office manager and local elder Broderick Tongco gave a lecture on being stewards of God. He admonished the attendees to be the best example they can be in working with God’s finances.

The meeting concluded with a final lecture by Mr. Harrison about visiting with members and practical ways to feed God’s flock, encouraging the deacons and elders to be extremely patient, concerned and loving toward God’s people.