One Year of Grace (Radiate-Sept2025)
It’s been a year since I was assigned as the Regional Director of IVCF-SMRU. It has been a roller coaster ride and a faith-stretching experience. Let me share two things I've discovered about myself as I've taken on this role.
First, the most challenging part of being a leader is making decisions. There are decisions I have to make that others, including my teammates, may not understand. Some of these decisions could end up hurting or offending others. There were even times when I thought that my decision was right, yet the results say otherwise.
What makes it more difficult is when the situation does not play out the way I expected, and I’m unable to deal with it. This results in fear, increasingly affecting my future judgment. As a result, I end up deciding out of fear instead of conviction. It’s a constant battle of courage and fear, humility and pride.
But I praise God for having a supportive team and people I can run to when I need extra brains and wisdom for the things I have to decide on.
The second thing I discovered is that I’m visionary. I love seeing and envisioning a better future for our ministry, and I love sharing it with everybody. My friends and fellow staff can attest to this. They know me as someone who has a lot of plans, not because I want to do many things, but because there is a vision I desire to achieve.
Last year, I shared my vision for our ministry to be sustainable. I challenged every area to support the ministry, not only because God used it in our spiritual journey but also to remember the students who need to hear the gospel.
This year, I want our ministry to be more inclusive. If we believe in what we do, then let’s share our vision with our circle of influence, especially those who don’t know IVCF yet. We can then invite them to take part in what God is doing through our ministry. We might be surprised by what God can do through simple vision casting with our friends, churchmates, and colleagues.
-Charlie T. Gujol, Regional Director
Praise God for the safe delivery of our baby and my wife last July 8, 2025. We welcomed our baby boy, Hananeel!
Praise God for the daily provision and sustaining grace for our family, especially now that I’m the only one with a stable income.
Please pray with me and my wife as we planfor an area visit. Doing so with our three-month-old baby would be a new and challenging experience for us.
Gretchen Dela Cruz- NorthEast Davao Area Staff in charge
As I began my area assignment this academic year, I went through a spiritual retreat to process my mixed emotions and thoughts. That retreat helped me reflect on the past 13 years I spent serving God in this ministry. I couldn’t help but cry and thank Him for allowing me to be a part of His mission through the work with students and graduates.
I have seen how He answers prayers, both in my personal life and in ministry. I am in awe and deeply humbled that God continues to use me despite my imperfections.
The journey has been both joyful and painful. But despite this, I am grateful that God is still pursuing me and shaping me into the best version of myself, as His child and a minister in His kingdom.
If I were to ask myself again where I would want to be today, I would still choose to be where I am right now. I am grateful for the people the Lord has used to bring me this far. This academic year, I’m excited for what He will do — and what He can do — through me, as I engage with and become more deeply connected to the students and graduates.
Praises:
Praise God for the unwavering commitment of students, volunteers, and graduates in Northeast Davao. I am truly blessed by their support and generosity in giving their time, effort, and service to the King.
Praise God for His abundant provision in every activity throughout the past academic year.
Praise God for the recent RLS! The students are now excited and ready to serve in their respective campus chapters this year.
We also praise the Lord for the lives of my co-laborers in Northeast Davao this academic year:
Mati: Grace Bundag, Sander Doy, and Lowe Florido
Kapalong: Dimple Lyn Basaca, Dr. Norma Luague, and Abigail Claire Gabito (Kapalong)
Tagum: Joann Elesterio
Truly, this is one of God’s answered prayers.
Abigail Claire Gabito - Regiona Associate Staff Intern (Kapalong)
As this academic year began, I witnessed God’s faithfulness in raising up fresh volunteers and leaders in our area. Their hearts for service and dedication to the work have been a tremendous source of encouragement, reminding me why I was called to continue in this mission. Seeing God work through these new servants fills me with gratitude and renewed purpose.
Yet, alongside these blessings, the recent months have marked a particularly challenging season of personal refinement. The difficulties I’ve faced have been intense, testing my resolve and stretching my faith in ways I didn’t anticipate. However, through it all, the Lord has been my constant companion, whispering assurances of His presence even in the darkest moments.
This period of pruning has become one of my greatest teachers, instructing me in the sacred art of waiting and trusting God’s timing. This was especially the case when my carefully laid plans crumbled and uncertainty clouded the path ahead.
I find myself genuinely grateful for these lessons, recognizing how God is shaping both my character through personal trials and my effectiveness in ministry service.
To God be the Glory!
Praises:
Praise God for the opportunity to attend EAGC 2025 last August 7-11 in Tagaytay.
Praise God for the life of Doc Luague and 5 ISCF counselors from KCAST who handle small group meetings at Kapalong NHS
Praise God for our core group of student-leaders in Kapalong NHS this academic year
Cherie Gale T. Gujol - Davao City Area Staff in charge
This season has been both stretching and encouraging as I continue to journey with students and serve in ministry. With back-to-back camps and gatherings, it has been physically and mentally demanding, especially since each camp comes with different challenges that need to be addressed. Walking alongside students has also been emotionally draining at times because of the weight of their stories.
However, in the midst of these challenges, I praise God that it is only by His grace that I have been sustained. Through His presence, I have found new joy in what the Lord has called me to do and have learned to celebrate His goodness, even in small ways. It has been a gentle reminder that whenever I feel frustrated or overwhelmed by challenges, God is at work — and continually at work — even when I cannot see it. He has been teaching me to place my confidence in Him and to allow my faith to grow deeper.
As I reflect on these lessons, I also witness small but meaningful breakthroughs in the lives of young people. From simple conversations to intentional discipleship moments, I am reminded that transformation is truly a process, and my role is simply to be faithful—trusting God for the growth, both in those He has entrusted to me and in myself.
I am grateful for how He is at work, and I’d like to share three highlights:
Building Connections on Campus
I’ve had the opportunity to meet new students and reconnect with others, allowing me to build meaningful friendships. These connections often start with simple conversations about life, studies, or interests, but they gradually open doors for deeper discussions about faith and God’s work in their lives. I’m reminded that ministry doesn’t always begin with big programs or formal settings — it often starts with being present, listening well, and showing genuine care in the little moments that matter.
Small Group Growth and Discipleship
Our small group times have been a blessing, with students becoming more engaged in studying God’s Word and sharing their lives. I’ve seen growth not only in knowledge but also in how they encourage one another and live out their faith in daily struggles. Some students have also stepped up in leadership, taking the initiative to lead our discussion times and using their gifts and talents to serve God.
Serving in Camps
From May to July, much of my time and energy was focused on the different camps (SIBOL, DLTC, and KC). I was part of the executive committee in each event. Each camp had unique responsibilities and challenges that helped me grow in my service and dependence on God.
Serving in the executive committee required extra preparation, coordination, and decision-making, but it also gave me the privilege of seeing how God works not just in the lives of the students, but also in the hearts of those serving behind the scenes. It was especially meaningful during KC, as it was my first time to serve as part of the executive team. The experience was both humbling and encouraging, teaching me to rely on God’s wisdom and strength rather than my own.
Through these moments, I continue to see how God uses both small and big steps to move His mission forward. I remain grateful for your prayers and support as I serve Him where He has placed me.Praises:
Praise God for His grace and strength through a busy season of camps and ministry.
Praise God for new and deeper friendships with students that opened opportunities for faith conversations.
Praise God for the growth in small groups as students learn, share, and take steps to lead.
Praise God for His work during the camps (SIBOL, DLTC, and KC) and for the lessons learned in serving and trusting Him throughout those journeys.
Prayer Requests:
Pray for renewed strength, rest, and joy in serving. Ask God to deepen faith and dependence on Him.
Pray for the continued growth of students and their walk with Jesus. Pray for wisdom and guidance for future campus ministry plans.
Erica Astillero - Regional Associate Staff Intern (Gensan)
I truly praise the Lord for I was able to serve in regional camps, be a counselor in KC, and attend EAGC after recovering from the surgery I had last December.
The first few months of this year has been very challenging. It was hard to keep the faith in times of pain. My struggle was not just physical — it was emotional, mental, and also spiritual. I struggled to keep on journeying with the students. At the same time, I also struggled with personal issues and recovery.
Looking back, I realized that I wasn’t being gracious to myself. Therefore, I wasn't able to extend grace to others. Dealings after dealings, I was overwhelmed. The first three months, I struggled to stand on my feet; I struggled to be steadfast; and I struggled to trust God.
This was the case until God reminded me that the battle was His. I didn’t have to do anything but surrender. I am human, I am limited. And the beauty is that I have an omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent God whom I can rely on. God proved that to me during those times. He met me, where I was. So I took my time, rested, and let God do His work. His mercies are, indeed, new everyday. There is joy in the morning. I am still learning.
I enjoyed serving as SG Coordinator during the Sibol Camp last May. Although the task was laborious, I found joy preparing for daily sessions and praying for a purposeful small group discussion among the high school students. I also discovered that I love to take part in a person's first steps in their faith journey, share the love of our Lord Jesus Christ to them, and encourage them to discover and experience Him more.
I also served as a facilitator during DLTC last June. In July, I served in KC for the first time. God revealed to me things that I still have to deal with. He also answered my prayer for confirmation before going there. I praise God for giving me the opportunity to serve in these camps. I enjoyed every bit of it, even the tiredness.
Beyond these camps, God also sent me to EAGC in Tagaytay last August. I thank the Lord for the graduate who
sponsored and extended his blessings to me and the other volunteers, allowing us to experience this one-of-a-kind conference. I met and gained new friends, even from other nations, who would pray and journey with me.
The exposure in EAGC was very helpful in keeping me reminded that God’s work in making His Name and Kingdom known across nations is happening. In this journey of knowing Christ and making Him known in the campus and workplace, we are never alone.
We learned from the story of Esther during Bible Expositions, and I carried that same story as I started campus work this semester. I also shared Esther’s story to the student-leaders. I believe that God is telling me to step up for what He has called me to do. Just like Esther, I should trust God and allow the community to fast and pray with me. I am still learning, and I praise God for the opportunity to learn.
May the good Lord continue to correct me and strengthen me in my remaining time for campus work, and prepare me for where He will lead me next. Soli Deo Gloria!
Praises:
Praise God for the three students (two from MSU and one from RMMC Gensan) who were sent to KC last July 14 - August 3. Praise God for the graduates who supported them through finances and prayers. They were also sent to SMRU RLS 2025 last August 23-25, 2025 along with staff and volunteers.
Praise God for the new set of officers for the Sycamore Chapter. Praise God for their obedience and hearts to learn.
Praise God for the Sycamore’s Freshmen Treat last September 4, 2025. It was attended by
college and high school students, freshies, student-leaders, graduates, our adviser Prof. Rowel Allosa, and our speaker Engr. Lowe Florido, PME.
Prayer Requests:
Pray for the student-leaders, that they may continue to know Christ more and discover their God-given purpose in the campus.
Pray that the Lord’s hands will work on the campus through Sycamore Chapter this academic year.
Pray for wisdom for the students in their fundraising efforts to support their fellowships.
Pray for the pioneering student-leader and movement in RMMC Gensan.
Ricky Patricio - North Cotabato Area Staff in charge
Over the past few months of ministering to students and graduates at IVCF North Cotabato, I have reflected on a recurring observation: many Christian leaders, both within and outside our organization, seem to be losing themselves in their service.
I've witnessed some fall into immoral actions, while others struggle with anger, unforgiveness, pride, arrogance, and self-righteousness. This isn't to say I'm above these struggles; I've found myself in similar situations, and it is only by God's grace and mercy that I am who I am today.
Meditating on Nehemiah 1 and 2, God reminded me that the transformation of my character is just as vital as my ministry. He doesn't want me to lose a piece of my soul while serving Him. Rather, He wants me to be filled by and in Him.
Additionally, God has taught me that His work requires a communal effort. In the past, I relied heavily on my own abilities. While I sought help from students and graduates, I wasn't intentional about partnering with them. Nehemiah showed me the importance of inviting others to share the vision of Kingdom work, as the magnitude of the task demands the whole body of Christ. Moving forward, I am committed to intentionally partnering with students and graduates in ministry.
Wendy U. Repollo - Regiona Associate Staff intern (Kabacan)
My one-year journey as a regional staff intern (RASI) in SMRU has come to an end. I can still remember my first months as a RASI. Honestly, it seemed to start smoothly because of the help of the people in the ministry. However, the real struggle was inside me.
The moment I said yes to the Lord’s calling, I knew that He is the God I will serve and that I desired to serve Him wholeheartedly. I knew His character, and that assurance made me say “yes.” But something was still unsettled: my doubts about myself — my capabilities, my communication skills, and my personality. My tendency to be alone and isolated seemed to disqualify me from ministry work.
I also faced challenges in managing my time and balancing my online job, ministry work, and wedding preparations. There was so much to think about and consider. But the Lord was victorious over those overwhelming thoughts and doubts.
One thing I learned about Him is that He truly speaks to His children. His voice remains with His people even in this generation. He spoke to me in every moment — whether in silence or in noise. He spoke to me through my Bible reading, my quiet time, the preaching I listened to, and my prayers. He revealed what He wanted me to do for the week or for a particular time. His words encouraged me, reminding me that it was Him working through me and that He was simply using me for His purpose.
In times of failure, disappointment, and frustration over unmet expectations, God taught me to trust Him. He reminded me that I am not in control — He is. He taught me to trust Him fully because He goes ahead of me in every assignment and task, whether big or small. Throughout this one-year journey as a RASI, I was tested yet refined, broken yet rebuilt, hurt yet healed, and emptied yet filled. All of these were the workings of the Lord’s hand, making me trust His character more than ever.
I will always thank Him for this journey. It will forever be cherished and remembered for a lifetime.
Praises:
Paise God for the opportunity to pioneer two new campuses in North Cotabato.
Praise God for the IVCF graduates who faithfully pray for and give to sustain the Lord's work among the students.
Prayers:
Pray for the Lord to provide an IVHOME Manager for Kabacan, as Ms. Wendy resigned last month.
Pray for more volunteers and ministry partners to join us in discipling college and high school students here in North Cotabato.
Pray for SMRU:
Partnership with Surge Marketplace
Pray for the ongoing conversation with Grace Locsin of Surge Marketplace as we finalize the Memorandum of Agreement. This partnership aims to open opportunities for more volunteers while helping them find meaningful online work through Surge Marketplace’s training and support.
Ministry Partners and Connections
Pray for more ministry partners and for other IVCFers to be reconnected. May God open doors for new partnerships with individuals and organizations who share our vision of reaching students and developing Christ-centered leaders.
IVHome Project in Tagum
We praise God for our graduates who have stepped up to lead the IVHome Project in Tagum. Pray that the Lord will continue to provide as we work toward fully paying for the lot. Our remaining balance is around ₱50,000.
Staff, Volunteers, and Student Leaders
Pray for the Lord’s protection, strength, and wisdom for all our staff, volunteers, and student leaders as they continue to share the gospel and live out God’s calling on their campuses and communities.
Financial report
Financial Reflection & Looking Ahead
This quarter’s finances tell a story of faithful mission investment. The months with higher expenses were also the months when ministry impact was strongest, as these were months full of camps, leadership trainings, and outreach activities where many students encountered Christ and grew in their faith. The deficits in June and August weren’t signs of loss, but reflections of our commitment to invest in people and purpose, trusting God to provide for His work.
As we look forward, our hearts remain full of hope. We’re preparing for upcoming area visits, student trainings, and new ministry initiatives that will continue to build movements of witnessing communities in our campuses. Through it all, we hold on to the truth that God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.
As of today (October 13, 2025), we are grateful that we still have enough funds to sustain the ministry for this month. We continue to trust God for His provision in the coming months, confident that He will move through the generosity of His people.
We invite you to journey with us. Your prayers, encouragement, and financial partnership play a vital role in what God is doing across Southern Mindanao. Together, let’s continue investing in lives, equipping student leaders, and witnessing God’s transforming work in every campus we reach.
Thank you for standing with us in prayer and partnership. Your faithfulness and encouragement continually remind us that we are not alone in this mission. As we move forward, we do so with grateful hearts — trusting that God will continue to provide, guide, and work through all of us to bring the hope of the gospel to every campus in Southern Mindanao.
To God be the Glory!
