Gospel Meeting at Purok 1 church of Christ, Purok 1, Katipunan, Arakan, Cotabato

October 14, 2015

Ten (10) precious souls submitted to baptism after hearing the Gospel of Christ. We are thankful that God blessed our trip and gives us great harvest of souls. Truly, God's word is powerful enough in converting the souls.

 We traveled more than hundred mile from our residence in Digos City, Davao del Sur to preach the truth in Purok 1 church of Christ, Purok 1, Katipunan, Arakan, Cotabato. This place is commonly known as "Campo Uno." We are so thankful to see old members of the Church of Christ since 1970's. They welcomed us in their house and used it to gather people for this gospel meeting.

This picture shows the area they lived. Some of these houses were owned by our brethren. Their primary source of income is farming. They are poor and needy.

Most of our audience are students in Katipunan High School, just beside our meeting place. But most of them came from Gutalid, Kitaotao, Bukidnon. More than 20 miles from their school. There was no high school in their place so they sacrificed to study here.

Brother Rudy Coercy Notarte lead the spiritual songs during the entire Gospel Meeting. He is the eldest brother of my father, Julie Notarte. He is a preacher in Tagum City church of Christ, Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

 I was requested to preach and be the first speaker. I taught the first principle lessons so that everyone can understand the foundation of the Church of Christ. I ended the lesson about the Simple Plan of God on our Salvation.

My father, Julie Divine Notarte, was the next and last speaker. He taught the lesson quoted from Acts 22:16 - "Why Tarriest Thou?" A clear message of God that salvation is a thing that need not delay. If we want to be saved, we have to obey the Gospel of Christ, NOW.

 During the invitation song, 10 souls came forward and confessed Christ as the Son of God.

 We end the program with a picture taking. The man with an orange shirt is Brother Moca Marapan. He is a very active preacher who helped preach the truth in this area and neighboring places. He also preached first the Gospel to these people and invited them.

Brother Julie Notarte baptized them at the nearest river.

Their names are:
1. Oliver Betil
2. Borris Betil
3. Vicky Baday
4. Liza Eman
5. Tricio Marapan
6. Rezel Oribawan
7. Angeline Lipatuan
8. Leziel Damlay
9. Ruffa Mae Damlay
10. Kevin Carsillar

Brother Jonathan Notarte read some scriptures in Colossians 3:1-17 to remind us the things we need to focus and to do in living Christian life.

We give all the glory and honor to God. Without Him, we could not do this wonderful work.

We are very lucky to have a car that was used for many Gospel trips. Without these, it would be very hard for us to travel in different places especially that my father have many illness. But since this car is already old, an 1996 edition, we experience many mechanical troubles. It's maintenance gets higher and we need to repair it every now and then especially when we have this long distance trip. Please pray for our work.

WORSHIP SERVICES and BAPTISM at Dawis, Digos City

October 11, 2015

9:00 - 11:00 AM - 
I, Joshua Notarte, preached on the worship service at Bitaug church of Christ, Bitaug, Zone 4, Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur. I taught the lesson about the Book of Revelation. A thorough examination on Chapter 1. 

Brother Valente Tumol Sr. also preached for the bible study in Bitaug Church of Christ. He taught the lesson entitled, "God shows the Way of Salvation"







At the same time, my father, Julie Divine Notarte and brother Jonathan Notarte preached on the worship service at Digos City church of Christ, Roxas Ext., Zone 3, Digos City, Davao del Sur.

Brother Joseph Notarte preached also in Mahayahay church of Christ, Mahayahay, Hagonoy, Davao del Sur together with brother Ruel Eloy and Rodulfo Saludar.

At 12:00 noon, one soul submitted to baptism. She was attending worship services in Digos City church of Christ since little child until this time that she is ready to enter the Christian life.

My father, Julie Divine Notarte, did the baptism and we give all the glory to God.

We are all rejoicing when someone obeyed the Gospel of Christ. The brethren in Digos City church of Christ go with them in the sea to witness and welcome our new sister in Christ.

Brother Joseph Notarte read more scriptures from the bible as a reminder for every one who enters new life in Christ.

Other preachers who cooperated were brother Jonathan Notarte, Ben Dulong, etc.





At 4:00 - 5:00 PM - I PREACHED the word of God on the worship service at Padada church of Christ, Sikatuna St., Padada, Davao del Sur. Together with me are brother Jonathan Notarte, Ruel Eloy who lead the songs, Renato Bogoy and Ringene Grengea.

Gospel Meeting at BAGONG SILANG CHURCH OF CHRIST, Bagong Silang, San Remigio, Kaputian, Island Garden City of Samal

October 09, 2015

Most of the brethren in Bagong Silang Church of Christ were baptized since 1980's. They were converted through the radio program of my late grandfather, Ruben Notarte, and after he died on 1979, my father, Julie Notarte, continued to preach in their radio program together with his brother, Joy Remuner Notarte until they received a letter inviting them to preach in Samal Island.

At the present, most of them remain as members of the Church of Christ. They also helped in establishing local congregations in such island. They were originally members in Taclobo church of Christ, Taclobo, Libertad, Kaputian, Samal and expanded here. They also helped established a congregation in Madali church of Christ.

Brother Joseph Notarte lead the songs and was the first speaker. He taught the lesson about "Victory Without WEIGHTS."

Brother Jonathan Notarte was the second speaker and taught the lesson about "The Essentials in the Lord's Work."

They were blessed to have sound preachers who could help them edify and help preaching in different congregations. Their preachers are brother Godofredo Catamora, Jerry Catamora, Bobby Enotivas, Jose Noquera, etc.

I, Joshua Notarte, was the third speaker. I taught the lesson, "Ask not what the Church can do for you, but Ask what I can do for the Church."

When I was a kid, I can still remember that the women taught us on children bible classes. But now, we are the one teaching them about Christian life in this MONTHLY GOSPEL MEETING.

My father, Julie Divine Notarte, was the 4th and last speaker. He taught the lesson, "Are You Living Your Life Backwards?"

For more than a year, this monthly gospel meeting continued with great help on the faith of the brethren. We prayed that this work will be more fruitful in coming days or years. But we could not do this without your help brethren through your prayers and financial help. Please continue to help us as we continue to preach the truth in different places.

Baptism at Dawis, Digos City, Davao del Sur, Philippines

October 07, 2015

Three (3) precious souls had submitted to water baptism in Dawis, Digos City, Davao del Sur according to the Great Commission of Jesus Christ in MATTHEW 28:18-20 and MARK 16:15-16.

Before going to the water, my father, Julie Divine Notarte, preached first about the importance of baptism in Digos City church of Christ, Roxas Ext., Zone 3, Digos City, Davao del Sur. Although they already heard the Gospel of Christ for several times and already decided, it is best to submit in baptism with refreshed mind on what really is baptism and the benefits a person can obtain.

These men came from Malinan, Kidapawan City, North Cotabato. They are already attending worship services in Malinan church of Christ until they decided to obey the Gospel. Brother Pampangan preached on such congregation since their preacher died this year.

I, Joshua Notarte, assisted this work together with my brothers in flesh, Joseph and Jonathan. Other preacher also in the picture is brother Ruel Eloy and brother Pampangan.

Brother Julie Notarte did the baptism with these men. Their names are:
1. Junsing Maganod
2. Randy Saban
3. Bryan Maganod (He is the youngest, 13 yrs. old)

They are formerly members of "Church of the Living God and Alliance Church."

We are thankful to hear that these men will not only obey the Gospel of Christ but are also willing to become preachers. Right after the baptism, they were given Cebuano Bibles as they requested.
We really need preachers in Malinan church of Christ, Malinan, Kidapawan City because brother Pampangan's residence in Malasila, Makilala, Cotabato is far and it is hard for him to travel in such long distance every Sunday worship.

After the baptism, brother Joseph Notarte read some scriptures. In Colossians 3:1-17, reminds us on the attitude we should forsake and what it is that we should live for as people who are now "New Creatures" - 2 Cor. 5:17

We are very thankful to all brethren who continue to pray for the work of God here in the Philippines. We are also thankful to every Filipino preachers who untiringly stand for the truth and proclaim it to many lost souls.

Preachers Training at JP Laurel Church of Christ & Funeral Service to Brother Fedelito Matampole

October 05, 2015

It was a great day when Christians gathered together to learn more about God's precious word. His words is wonderful, more precious than gold. This was the 2nd month of Preachers Training Class in JP Laurel Church of Christ, JP Laurel, Malungon, Sarangani Province. 

In this picture is Brother Pedrito Matampole. He is one of the preachers in this congregation. His son is also helping him to preach here.

Even if his brother in flesh, Bro. Fedelito Matampole, died last Oct. 1, 2015 and their family is still on grief, he still pursue and not willing to postpone this schedule.

Brother Advincula Odas, was the first speaker. He delivered the message about, "Be Careful With Our Mouth." He is one of the preachers in Bitaug church of Christ, Bitaug, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur where I am also preaching together with my brothers in flesh, Joseph and Jonathan.

Brother Dionesio Tol was the 2nd speaker. He is currently preaching in 3 congregations on Sunday worship services. (1) Dongan Pekong Church of Christ, (2) Saub church of Christ & (3) Bantong church of Christ. All of this was part of the Municipality in Matanao, Davao del Sur.

Brother Rudy Coercy Notarte was the 3rd speaker. He is one of the preachers in Tagum City church of Christ, Tagum City, Davao del Norte together with his sons who are also preaching. He is the eldest brother of my father, Julie Notarte.

Brother Joseph Notarte was the 4th speaker. He quoted his lesson in John 6:68 - "To Whom Shall We Go?"

Brother Jonathan Notarte was the 5th speaker. He taught the lesson about "The Essentials  For The Lord's Work."

I, Joshua Notarte, was the 6th speaker who preached the word of God. I taught the lesson about "One Thing" - in the bible.

My father, Julie Divine Notarte, was the 7th and last speaker. He taught the lesson about "Are You Living Your Life Backwards?"

Everyone was very interested in studying the bible. We started our class at 9:00 AM and ended till 1:00 PM, non-stop. 

Every preachers remain in their seat until we finished and they copied every lessons we teach. The brethren indeed are very hungry for the word of God.

Most of the preachers attended came from mountainous areas in Sarangani Province where they preached and lived. Most of them don't have financial support but active in helping to spread the True Gospel.

God willing, this preachers training will continue every month. We need your prayers and support for this work to be successful.

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Right after the preachers training at JP Laurel church of Christ, we went to Osmeña, Sulop, Davao del Sur where we preached the word of God on a funeral service to comfort the family of brother Fedelito Matampole who died in alleged hit-and-run accident in his motorbike. 

In this picture is the family of brother Fedelito.

This is the house of brother Fedelito Matampole where his body was laid. His dead body will be buried on October 9, 2015.

They are asking for help to the brethren who are able because their hospital bills was not paid. They are poor. Please help them.

Brother Fedelito is a preacher in Upper Labay church of Christ, Upper Labay, General Santos City.

Brother Rudy Coercy Notarte lead the songs.

My father, Julie Divine Notarte, preached the word of God. 

Many had attended. Some of them are the brethren in Parami church of Christ in its neighboring community.

On the window is the view where everyone can see the preacher.

Worship Services in 4 Local Churches

October 04, 2015

9:00 - 11:00 AM - I PREACHED the word of God on the worship service at DIGOS CITY CHURCH OF CHRIST, Roxas Ext., Zone 3, Digos City. I preached about the "Book of Revelation in a birds-eye-view"

My father, Julie Divine Notarte, preached for the message or sermon. He reminded the brethren about "The Lord's Supper." 






2:00 - 3:00 PM - I PREACHED on the worship service at DIGOS CITY DISTRICT JAIL CHURCH OF CHRIST, BJMP, Digos City District Jail, Digos City. Every Sunday, we were divided into 2 groups. One in the MALE Section and One in FEMALE. This time, I preached to the MALE and my father, Julie Notarte, preached in FEMALES. Since 2006, we already baptized 150 prisoners in this jail.

4:00 - 5:00 PM - I LEAD the SONGS on the worship service at PADADA CHURCH OF CHRIST, Sikatuna St., Padada, Davao del Sur. Brother Joseph Notarte preached.

7:00 - 8:00 PM - I assisted on the worship service at BITAUG CHURCH OF CHRIST, Zone 4, Bitaug, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

Every first Sunday night of the month, the brethren in this congregation always invited us to preach. They are very active in helping God's work and attentive in studying the bible. 

Brother Valente Tumol lead the songs. He is one of the preachers and elder in this congregation.

My father, Julie Notarte, preached the lesson, "Are You Living Your Life Backwards?" It's a good lesson to reflect in our Christian life.

I am one of the preachers in this congregation. I preached here since 2006 until now. We started gathering in the house until we were able to build this small building. Brother Andy Alexander helped us to buy this land and the brethren are very thankful for him.

Gospel Meeting at Kulaman Valley church of Christ, Kulaman Valley, Arakan, Cotabato

October 03, 2015

 About 125 miles away from our residence at Digos City, Davao del Sur, we went to a very mountainous place known as Kulaman Valley, Arakan, Cotabato. Looking forward at the picture, in the lower ground is the said place. We depart in Digos City at 6:00 AM and arrived in our destination at 10:00 AM. The brethren and some visitors are already waiting for us.

Our car was in risk to pass the river because of mechanical problems, so we decided to walk just a hundred meters to our meeting place. Fortunately, they have a hanging bridge. In the picture is my father, Julie Notarte and I, wearing black polo.

Kulaman Valley church of Christ was established long time ago through the effort of brother Moca Marapan, Henry Embac, brother Balhanan (deceased), and many more. Many people were baptized here  but due to different calamities and unending wars between Philippine government and communist rebels, many of the affected brethren were displaced.

My father, Julie Divine Notarte, begun the program by leading spiritual songs of the Church translated to our local dialect.

Cebuano Hymnals are very lacking. Overall, we only have 4 hymnals used during the entire gospel meeting. Most of them just try their best to sing the songs they memorized and their favorite song is "Higher Ground."

Brother Joseph Notarte was the first speaker who preached the word of God. He preached the lesson, "Victory Without Weights." That is if we want to win, we have to prepare for the race without any sins that gives us burden.

Brother Jonathan Notarte was the 2nd speaker. He preached about the "Gospel in Romans 1:16." That it is the power of God unto salvation where we must not be ashamed to proclaim and obey without delay.

I, Joshua Notarte, was the 3rd speaker who preached the word of God. I taught about the "Six Soul-Searching Questions." A lesson that shows us on What is the most important thing in our life?

Brother Rudy Coercy Notarte was the 4th speaker. He came from Tagum City church of Christ, Tagum City where he never slept for the entire night in order to assure that he could meet us in Ulas, Davao City.

Brother Julie Divine Notarte was the 5th and last speaker. He preached the lesson, "Are You Living Your Life Backwards?" It is a lesson that needs self examination and teaching us what kind of life we need to have in this world where many temptations and hindrances we face in serving God.

Overall, preaching the Gospel of Christ helps the brethren to be edified and continue in their faith. During the invitation song, there were 8 souls who came forward and confessed Christ as the son of God. These happy faces of the brethren shows that living a Christian life is a joyful and blessed life.

My father, Julie Notarte, baptized them at the river. They heard the word of God for several times through brother Moca Marapan and his co-preachers in this area.

 Their names are:
1. Catalino Mangguason
2. Helen Mangguason
3. Camelo Indao
4. Emma Indao
5. Alfeo Bucas
6. Dailyn Indao
7. Mailyn Danyagan
8. Jessica Aseyay

To God be the Glory!

Please remember them in your prayers. Our brethren and their family here were very poor. Many are hungry and sick. They asked for your prayers and help.