Greetings from Sienna Kids

Good job kids! Thank you Chryzyl and Chlau Carpio for joining in and for sharing your talents. Pati sina Mike, Kadjo, Julia and Len, live na live ang pagbati. All of you kids did a wonderful job during the program. .. and not to forget, the praise and worship, and the skit you did,kahit nilaglag ninyo ang mga magulang ninyo... ayos na ayos na rin!

Sienna'S 10th Anniversary Celebration, Sept 25, 2009

CLICK ON IMAGE FOR A CLOSER VIEW



SIENNA THROUGH THE YEARS

Thanks to Youth@Faith who prepared this video presentation for Sienna's 10 wonderful years! Glory be to our God!

God Rescued Me, by Cesaria P. Catacutan

GOD RESCUED ME was written on October 3, 2009 based on actual event on September 26, 2009 during the typhoon, "Ondoy"

When I was weak and weary,
When I felt the pains up to the smallest bones
And to the tip of my hair
In sadness, almost without hope,
God my shepherd was beside me
To give me strength to move on

Surely, amidst greatest danger
There is no time to cry
Surprisingly, I easily cried
No tears rolled from my eyes
With the thought it was the end of the world
like Noah's time
I felt the love of Jesus
And all pains were cast aside

God rescued me for a mission
That this simple work will remind
Every reader to cling to God
Not only in time of danger, but all the time
God rescued me to let me feel the love of my children
Surely, they in turn feel my love for them
From moment to moment God rescued me
For He loves and cares

Shout for Joy!

sienna@10

September 09 Calendar

Click image for a closer view:


September 13 - Happy Birthday Kuya Jun Solano!
********* 25 - Happy 10th Anniversary Sienna Group!
Party at FFA Cafeteria
7pm

********* 26 - Happy Birthday P. Eniong!

August Calendar

Happy Birthday!!!
August 3 - Aida Solano
August 20- Lanie Sarabia

Work Out!!!

Car wash?


Framed up!


Wacky ladder!


Gideon's angels


In action!








When something's strange in the neighborhood.. who are you gonna call? Sienna! Sienna!

Pizza Galore con Cafe

Together with LJ & LA

Buo na naman ang masayang grupo ng Sienna! kaya riot na naman... nagbabalik ang makukulit na couples na adik sa kodakan! Patikim pa lang ito... standby for more!!!



O ha! Handa na ba kayo? Ah uhmmm kami hindi pa masyado... Patikim pa nga lang eh.










Mga modelo ng hagdan, aakyat na lang magpo-pose pa diba?













Sempers, meron din shot ang girls... hagdan lang po yan... di yan strip poles!




Aba naman ang beautiful smiling faces ha! Pang class picture batch____ never mind!

JULY Calendar

HAPPY BIRTHDAY:
July 3 - Pastor Brent
July 24- Cristy

Wish you all the best!

Eight Secrets to a Happy Marriage

Eight Secrets to a Happy Marriage
What keeps a marriage happy throughout the years? How do couples survive the tough times—and manage to keep their marriage alive and growing? Here's an inside look at the eight key ingredients to keeping your marriage happy.
1. Use the right "super glue."Happy couples share a commitment to God. When a wife can share the deepest things of her heart with her husband, there is true contentment and lasting joy. When other factors in a marriage are weak, this one—a mutual love for God and desire to serve him—can keep two people determined to work toward a relationship that reflects God's love and power.
2. Be friends as well as lovers.Most women rate "love and affection" number one when they list what they desire most from marriage. Most men rate "companionship" at the top—even above sex. Doing things together—reading quietly, driving in friendly silence, sharing a joke, or playing tennis together—is vital. Happy couples play together, enjoy what the other enjoys, and laugh together.
3. Tune in to pillow talk.Happy couples make the time and effort to explore each other's soul: to openly share joys, successes, hurts, dreams, and fears without rejection. But for that kind of communication to exist, each partner must understand and accept the other's differences.
4. Refuse to win.One gauge of marital happiness is how effectively couples deal with anger, conflict, and frustration. When one spouse sets out to "win," both spouses lose. Happy couples solve their conflicts so they both win—with a mutually satisfying resolution.
Happy couples work through the majors, shrug off the minors, and are mature enough to know the difference.
5. Stay true-blue.Happy couples are faithful. Fidelity was a given for the one hundred couples Dr. Catherine Johnson, author of Lucky in Love, interviewed about the secret to their happiness: "For them, being faithful to each other was not what made a marriage happy—it was what made a marriage possible in the first place."
6. Make room for change.Happy couples realize that in marriage, "change is the name of the game." They see the truth in Proverbs 27:17, realizing that when two lives rub together daily, sparks can fly. But as changes occur, each person becomes more Christlike.

The key principle of our marriage is:
If God is first, everything else falls in line. Because my husband loves
God, I don't have to worry about him loving me.-CECE WINANS

7. Keep the flame burning.Happy couples know the value of time and romance. Sex is part of romance, but touching, holding hands, meeting eyes across a room, winking or smiling over a family joke are also part of it.
8. Act as one flesh.Happy couples realize that marriage is a team sport, not a competition. Each carries the other when he or she is down. Happy couples don't lead separate lives; they refer to "our money" and "our plans." They have grasped the significance of 1 Peter 3:8: "Finally, all of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds."

—Carole Mayhall

Enjoy Lovely Piano Music by "Whisperings"

Whisperings Solo Piano Radio Station features beautiful Piano Music by different artists who came together to share their gifts and promote their albums and gigs as a community. Click (right side of the screen) and listen to lovely music by Whisperings.

Sa Yahweh ang Sayaw ng Sienna

Happy Mother's Day!

Letter from Pastor Brent- April 28, 2009

Dear FECPI Brothers and Sisters,

Greetings in Jesus name!

Praise the Lord for a wonderful FECPI General Conference last Saturday! We approved our new mission, vision and core values! Do you have it memorized yet? If not, here they are:

Mission: “Bring Christ to all people and build communities of Faith for God’s glory”.

Vision: “Strong, multiplying churches that impact the nations”.

These are such powerful and challenging statements. Let’s work together in faith and through prayer to make them a reality!

The FECPI Board of Trustees also elected new officers for the upcoming year:

President – Rev. Brent Burdick
Vice President – Rev. Willy Galzote
Chairman – Rev. Eniong Hilario
Vice Chairman – Pastor Eddie Santiago
Treasurer – Rev. Jun Pinili
Secretary – Dra. Jomi Alcon

Please pray for each officer and member of the Board of Trustees.

The next event for FECPI is the youth leaders training held on May 12-14, followed on May 24 by the FECPI 25th anniversary celebration at 2 p.m. at Faith Aurora. We hope to have our newly approved manual printed by then, and maybe even some t-shirts with our new mission and vision on them! Watch for details.

Don’t forget to recruit for FBC!

It is a joy to minister together with you.

All for Jesus!

Pastor Brent

Wisdom Comes from God

We have to say "YES" to every good opportunity: Yes to the right things at the right time. Otherwise, we lose something that would have rewarded us with a gift of a lifetime. But how do we judge that which is good from bad? right from wrong? godly from ungodly?
We are powerless, helpless and weak, but we are made strong and wise in the Lord. So if anyone needs wisdom, let him ask from God (James 1:5).



MAY 2009 CALENDAR

A New Milestone... A New Calling

Click image for a closer view of the Ordination Banquet Programme


The Lord has been doing marvelous things in the lives of our FECPI pastors and church planters. Just recently, we have witnessed how the spirit of these servants were ignited during the FECPI retreat at Pranjetto Hills, so much so that their faces were glowing with joy and excitement as the new vision, mission and core values were formulated and established for the common interest of all members of the FECPI family. Glory to God! It's such a wonderful experience to see how God's people with different personalities, backgrounds and experiences could just come together and unite in spirit and in mind for the purpose of pleasing, serving and glorifying the one true God!

And now, another milestone, another challenge, a new calling: Four of our church planters, along with 3 other FECPI pastors, made it through the screening, interview and "heart" examination to become ordained pastors. It's not just a title, so we say. It is a calling.

What does it take to be ordained? What does it involve? What lies ahead? We wonder. But whatever lies ahead, we are but sure it is all under God's masterplan, and goodness follows according to His perfect will and purpose. Hallelujah!

Congratulations to our newly ordained FECP Church Planters and pastors:


(From left)Jun Pinili (FFA), Jerry Cruz (Bataan), Jonathan Trino (RegII), Noel Penaranda (Reg II), Alice Penaranda (FFA), Aileen Dabandan (FFR) and Let Malaluan (RegIV). Also in this picture are FBC President Ermalee Hidalgo, NSC for churchplanters Mar Ocampo, and FECPI President Brent Burdick.

May you look forward to what lies ahead, press on to reach the end of your race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling you.

Shalom!

April Calendar and Activities

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAHLIA (12) AND P. GINGER (18)!!!

April 12 - Easter Sunday Special Presentation by Celebrate Recovery
April 18 - Women's Conference, "Hugs from Heaven" with Sandra Bell as speaker

Sparkle, Pahabol pics

March Calendar

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KUYA OGOT!!!

Video Clips During Drew&Jordyn's Engagement

Marikina I Couples Fellowship

On February 13, more than 30 couples from Marikina I District gathered for fellowship. There were games, good food, encouragement from guest speakers Tony & Candy Datu, special number from Sienna group and a time to dance for spouses. It was an awesome time spent by Christian couples coming from Marikina, under the leadership of Pastor Ed Santiago. Below are some pics taken during the affair. Standby for more.

Click images for a closer view:


The night's theme: Bonded in Love, Through the Years

Pics during Drew & Jordyn's Reception

Drew and Jordyn sure make a wonderful pair. We were delighted to join them in a wonderful celebration of their engagement!

February 2009 Calendar

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOEL, MONTY, BETH and MILA
Click image for a closer view.

January Calendar

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PASTOR JUN & ELMER!
Click Image for a closer view.

Tagaytay Retreat

We were truly blessed when we went to Tagaytay for evaluation and planning. It wasn't all work, but we had plenty of time for bonding with each other and the kids.
Caleb Monty shared with us the District-wide plans, projects and activities for 2009. We are excited about the upcoming couples "hearts day" celebration in February where we will have the privilege to fellowship with couples from other cell groups within Marikina I District. It is our desire to share with them our wonderful experiences as a couples group and let them know the benefits of husbands and wives growing together in Christ. We thank God for this opportunity.
Elmer shared about "Highway of Holiness," the need for us to clothe ourselves with Christ-likeness in our journey as believers, Jesus being our guide. We do not take the journey only by ourselves. We take it together with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are accountable of each other's Christian walk. We should then uplift, encourage and edify each other, while we rebuke in love. Questions were thrown and got the group thinking about own weaknesses and strengths and that of each others'. The wonderful thing about this is we are open to accept rebuke and correction. Every one always has a space for spiritual growth and should welcome such an opportunity. What a blessing to be in a group where members are willing to "mend and blend."

The stay in Tagaytay also gave the Dads a chance to play with their kids at the basketball court. It was an awesome experience to be laughing, running and playing ball, and a realization at the same time that the dads are not getting any younger. In no time daddies were gasping for breath while the kids were just warming up! It was a fun moment, though, that we believe the kids themselves enjoyed.

We thank God for the lovely opportunity of fellowship in a beautiful place, (thanks to Kuya Monty's friend, Steve) and we look forward to a closer and warmer relationship with each other, knowing this is what God desires of us.

Things to Consider in 2009

1. Wake Up!!
Decide to have a good day. "Today is the day the Lord hath made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24

2. Dress Up!!
The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance; but the Lord looks at the heart." I Samuel 16:7

3. Shut Up!!
Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. "He who guards his lips guards his soul." Proverbs 13:3

4 Stand Up!!... For what you believe in.
Stand for something or you will fall for anything.. "Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good..." Galatians 6:9-10

5. Look Up!!... To the Lord.
"I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

6. Reach Up!!... For something higher. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, And He will direct your path." Proverbs 3:5-6

7. Lift Up!!... Your Prayers.
"Do not worry about anything; instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING."
Philippians 4:6

God answers PRAYERS…..

A BLESSED NEW YEAR 2009………………

Message forwarded by Ate Dydze

Sienna's Year-ender

Click images for a closer view.


























Parties are not the same for Sienna without LJ and LA's presence, so we say, but God has been good... it went well and yes, nakaraos naman!
Theme was scarves. Everyone wore jeans with white tops, accentuated with colorful scarves to feel the cool spirit of the yuletide season. Simple, but cool!
We had with us Pastor Brent and Sis Kim, Pastor Ed and Sis Esther, and Pastors Jun and Ginger.

We also welcomed the new addition to our family: (from left) Mike and Arlene, Cathy and Archie, Maricar and Gene.
The party started with about 5 opening remarks, since it was not at all planned (haha). And what do you know... with or without plans, the party began and flowed unexpectedly very well!
As usual, Joel and Chris (our official emcees)saw to it that there was enough moment of fun, laughter, games and "appropriate" music! Ever tried doing the trip to Bethlehem with "Close to You" as controlling song? "Why do birds..." di ba naman hirap hanapan ng steps? But it was fun... really... after about 3 times of "Close to You"s, we tried "Celebration" and there, the beat was finally caught! Everyone danced with Woohoos and Yahoos! Saya!




Who could forget the kissing game (O ha!)? This game is fun and sweet for partners... Husband holds the lipstick using his mouth and applies it to wife's lips. Wife now kisses the husband and leaves as many kiss marks as possible... anywhere... no rules... hanggang kaya ng konsensiya haha! and the winners (janjararaaan)... Pastors Jun and Ginger!!! Yehey! MMMMhmmmm... kissable and irresistible ba o gigil lang yan?


One of the highlights of the gathering (as always) was the "kodakan" moments. Siempre feeling giniginaw... thanks to the scarves we were wearing... it really seemed like it was soooo cold!
Ayun! ok naman, not so bad! We had fun... We had big smiles, loud laughters and kabag as bonus!
It's amazing to see how time flies so fast. 2008 is over and another year has begun. What is in store for Sienna? Whatever God has for us, we are but sure it's always for the good of everyone!

And so, all the best to the group... and may the Good Lord be our Guide through the year 2009 and onwards!!!

Hope in the Lord

“Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:30-31, NIV).

Everyone has times when they feel tired and overwhelmed by the pressures of life. But notice, this scripture gives us a clear remedy: Hope in the Lord. It’s easy to put your hope in other things; maybe you had hope in a relationship, hope in a job, hope in the stock market. It’s time to redirect your hope to the One who will never let you down; the One who never changes, the Rock of Ages.

When you’re tempted to give up on your dreams, when you’re tempted to just settle where you are, listen to that still, small voice of hope on the inside that says, “No way. This is not who I am. I was created to live in victory. I was created to overcome this sickness. I was created to rise above these problems.” Put your hope and trust in the Lord because He is faithful! As you do, He will renew your strength. He’ll cause you to soar on wings like the eagle, and you’ll be empowered to move forward confidently into the victory He has for you!

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, today I choose to put my hope in You. I know You have good plans for me. Thank You for renewing my strength and keeping me close to You. Fill me with Your peace and joy today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Devotion shared by LJ

Marikina I Family Day

Sparkle, Ladies' Mini Concert

Taco Belles ang dating!!!


Imeldific beauty ni Ate Mila... Laban ka???




TRIVIA: 5 out of the 10 ladies in the choir are Sienna members, and 3 out of the 6 male guest singers are from Sienna.... Aba! exactong kalahati ng choir Sienna ah!

LJ, LA & Family say "SALAMAT"

elow mga kapatid,

We just want to extend our heartful thanks to all of you guys. My
family is trully blessed to have a cell group like you. A cell
group that is always thinking and praying for us while we are
away from your presence. We look up to you and admire you for doing such wonderful
things to glorify our Father in heaven. Thank you for keeping us
in your prayers. We always need these.

We were all very excited here in San Diego, when LA called
from Guam, that Zhen had already delivered her baby boy safely through normal delivery. We are so very thankful to God for the
answered prayers and also to all of you who were part of the prayer
request since Zhen and Brent got married until she was rewarded by our
Father in Heaven with a gift of life in her womb that she got pregnant
and now she gave birth to her baby "Brayden".

Para talagang hinintay lang si LA na dumating doon sa Guam at lumabas
na si Baby Brayden. Ang expected na schedule talaga ay 2nd week ng dec.
pa mangangak si Zhen,siguro excited na rin syang maalagaan ng kanyang
grandma. sabi nga namin kay Shomai ay Kuya na sya. Excited na din ang
LJ na makita ang 2nd apo at gusto na pumunta ng Guam, di nga lang
pwede at may alaga pa ako dito sa isa kong employer.

Tunay na buhay at dakila ang ating Panginoon sa patuloy na pagsagot
nya sa mga prayer request na ating mga kahilingan. at pinupuri at
labis namin syang pinasasalamatan sa lahat lahat na mga blessings
na ibinibigay nya sa amin. sabi nga sa Matthew 7:8 (For everyone
who ask receives, he who seek finds,and to him who knocks, the door
will be opened). and Mark 11:24 (Therefore I tell you, whatever you
ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it,and it will be yours).

Our Lord said,"The things which are impossible with men are possible
with God" (Luke 18:27), Also Jesus said, "If thou canst believe, all
things are possible to Him that believeth" (Maark 9:23).

In Christ's Grip,
LJ

For the Girls!!!

PLEASE CLICK IMAGE FOR A CLOSER VIEW.

Sienna is 9!

CLick Image for a closer view.

Led by the Lord

“LED BY THE LORD”-Learning how to make wise decisions in our daily walk with God.
“Those who are led by the Spirit of God are Sons of God.” Romans 8:14. When you come to Christ by faith, you are not simply adding Jesus to your existing life. Life in the Spirit is a new way of life under a new authority. There can only be one lord in your life. Who is calling the shots – you or the Lord?

The Spirit of God is: more than your conscience, more than a source of information, more than a feeling. The Holy Spirit is the full presence of God in the body, mind, and spirit of the willing believer. “Jesus said, ‘If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him and we will come and make our home with him.” John 14:23.

The Holy Spirit is the means by which Jesus Christ continues His life and ministry on the earth. “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these because I am going to the Father.” John 14:12
The Spirit functions in an environment of obedience to the Lordship and dominion of Christ, and of a mind which is steeped in and formed by the Word of God.

The Spirit of God will never disagree with the Word of God. The Spirit gives us wisdom, insight, and discernment. “The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My Name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you.” John 14:26

The Spirit is the source of God’s power in the life of the willing believer. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses.” Acts 1:8

The Holy Spirit is the means by which the purposes of God are released and accomplished on the earth. “The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.” Luke 1:35
God wants to give birth to His purposes through you! The Spirit confirms our identity as sons and daughters of God. “The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” Romans 8:18

Learn to access your spirit and open it to God. You cannot do this without consistent times of quiet and focus as well as consistent times of corporate worship. The mind, body, and spirit are vital in worshipping God, hearing from God, and being led by God. “So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit but I will also pray with my mind. I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.” I Cor 14:15

Hearing from God is the birthright of every child of God. We learn to hear and recognize the voice of our Heavenly Father. Regularly ask God to immerse you with His Spirit and have His life flow through you. Seek the reality of God more than an experience. “How much more will your Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” Luke 11:13
o The Holy Spirit will not work in you against your will. Actively pursue the Spirit
o Exercise the Spirit’s influence through obedience
You have a part in the working of the Spirit. The Spirit joins with your own will, efforts, and abilities. Allow the Spirit to do a deep work in you! “Deep calls to deep.” Psalm 42:7

Ref- Led by the Spirit of God, Kurt Reynolds

Despedida

Parang kailan lang...



For months, Sienna Cell group had in its list of prayer petitions Kuya Jun's US visa application. He wanted so much to be with his daughters in the US and see how they're doing. Kuya Jun longed to be with his grandson, "Siomai" (his first ever!) to play with him... take care of him... and teach him the latest "dodejun tricks!" And all of sudden, God, in His perfect timing, answered the request! God is good! He is a God who answers prayer...but here we were, trying to hold back Kuya Jun and Ate Aida so they wouldn't have to leave the cell group they were members of for almost nine long years. Of course, it is never the same without them. But what can we do? God has His plans on this couple. They probably were meant to be in a place where they can be used by God even more! Whereever they may be, we trust our God that they will always be safe and happy. As it is written in Psalm 121:8, The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Kaya nakakamiss man, we said our warmest farewell in a despedida party held in their home at Sienna Street, Marikina.

Take a peek at what happened there in the album right below:

Minamahal Naming Kuya Jun at Ate Aida!

Powerful Numbers to Call

Emergency Telephone Numbers
These are more effective than 911
When - You are sad, phone John 14
You have sinned, phone Psalm 51
You are facing danger, phone Psalm 91
People have failed you, phone Psalm 27
It feels as though God is far from you, phone Psalm 139
Your faith needs stimulation, phone Hebrews 11
You are alone and scared, phone Psalm 23
You are worried, phone Matthew 8:19-34
You are hurt and critical, phone 1 Corinthians 13
You wonder about Christianity, phone 2 Corinthians 5:15-18
You feel like an outcast, phone Romans 8:31-39
You are seeking peace, phone Matthew 11:25-30
It feels as if the world is b igger than God, phone Psalm 90
You need Christ like insurance, phone Romans 8:1-30
You are leaving home for a trip , phone Psalm 121
You are praying for yourself, phone Psalm 87
You require courage for a task, phone Joshua 1
Inflation's and investments are hogging your thoughts, phone M ark 10:17-31
You are depressive, phone Psalm 27
Your bank account is empty, phone Psalm 37
You lose faith in mankind, phone 1 Corinthians 13
It looks like people are unfriendly, phone John 15
You are losing hope, phone Psalm 126
You feel the world is small comp ared to you, phone Psalm 19
You want to carry fruit, phone John 15
Paul's secret for happiness, phone Colossians 3:12-17
With big opportunity/ discovery, phone Isaiah 55
To get along with other people, phone Romans 12

ALTERNATE NUMBERS
For dealing with fear, call Psalm 47
For security, call Psalm 121:3
For assurance, call Mark 8:35
For reassurance, call Psalm 145:18
ALL THESE NUMBERS MAY BE PHONED DIRECTLY. NO OPERATOR ASSISTANCE IS NECESSARY. ALL LINES TO HEAVEN ARE AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY. FEED YOUR FAITH, AND DOUBT WILL STARVE TO DEATH

Take a Peek at the Couples' Night on April 25, 2008

Sienna Cell leader, Elmer gives the opening remarks.

Above: A wacky pose from

27 Brothers & Sisters in Christ

Left: Ladies meditate on God's word.

April 2008 Couples' Night

God is good all the time!
Last night, April 25th, was a wonderful & blessed night for the COUPLES ministry. For the first time, our newly formed groups spent an awesome time with Sienna Cell Group, the mother cell, to fellowship with one another and share the amazing experiences God has been graciously pouring upon every couple involved in the said ministry.
We have been blessed by the presence of Chad and Rara, members of Provident Cell Group, led by Chris and Beth Santos. Chad reminded us to always be encouraged by our banner verse: Colosians 2:2, which supports the mission/vision of the Couples Ministry, couples being always on the move in unity to pray, love, encourage, and share God's Gospel.
Gene and Maricar Gasmen of C&C Cell, led by Romy and Chic, shared how God gradually transformed their lives by preparing their roots to grow deep in fertile soil so that in season, which is now, God is able to use them mightily to share their testimony to others and bring the lost back to God's kingdom as well.
Also present were Gabriel and Gemma Veciana, members of Molave Group under Aida and Jun Solano. Gabriel and Gemma, were delighted to share how God immediately answered a prayer. They say that in the cell group, they learned that prayer time is actually a 2-way communication with God, where one can express his feelings and petitions to God, then seek to hear God's voice, wait for His answer and submit to His will.
Joena Ferrer of Word of God group, headed by Joel and Dahlia, was also there to encourage and share how God has been guiding her Spiritual growth.
We also enjoyed the presence of Francis and Josie Umpoc, and Atoy and Majo Ramos, members of Ramos-Maravilla Group under Romy and Chic Rosalinas. Francis and Atoy sure have a jolly disposition and they helped our emcees, Joel and Chris, maintain a light and awesome atmosphere.
The meeting also became an opportunity to inform everybody about the different ministries the members are involved in: Praise and Worship, Missions, Kids, Celebrate Recovery, Board of Elders, Intercessory. We may be serving God in different ways, but together we are different parts, one body, serving one God!
There were 27 individuals present, representing 14 families and all were richly blessed by the sharing of the wonderful experiences and lessons learned from (as Elmer would always remind us) the habit of meeting together for uplifting, encouragement, love and study of God's Word.
To God be the Glory!

There's A Gap Awaiting You (Wesley Duewel)

There's a gap awaiting you
There is work for you to do
There's a place which no one else but you can fill
You are GOD's own chosen one
For a work that must be done
GOD has chosen you according to His will

There's unfinished work today
There's a part which you must play
There's a vacancy awaiting in God's plan
No one else your work can do
God's depending now on you
You and you alone are God's appointed man

Pause to hear God's voice today
Listen closely while you pray
God has something which His Spirit now would speak
You will find God's perfect will
All His plan He will fulfill
You will find it if His will alone you seek

Follow God whatever the price
Though it cost you sacrifice
It is sweet to know and do the will of God
There's a gap for you to fill
Do not miss God's call and will
Lest you stain your conscience and your hands with blood

Darling Dahlia!!!

D is for darling, dashing, debonair, dependable, dear, delightful, dancer, dreamer, dazzling, disciplined, diligent, deep, down-to-earth, doer of God's work, demonstrative, determined, dignified, driven, doo dooot doo daaa daaa dee deeeeet deee...

DEFINITELY DAHLIA!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

(April 12)

A Refiner's Fire

A Refiner's Fire
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os Hillman
Monday, March 17 2008
"For he will be like a refiner's fire or a launderer's soap." - Malachi 3:2b
The Lord has a specific manner of preparing His people for useful service. God desires to turn His children from rough, hard-edged stones into gems of gold and silver.

"He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the Lord will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness, and the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will be acceptable to the Lord, as in days gone by, as in former years" (Malachi 3:3-4).

The refiner's fire can only accomplish its purposes when the heat is turned up to extraordinary temperatures. It breaks down the metal in order for it to become moldable and shapeable. Only when the temperatures reach this level can the work be fully accomplished. So it is in our lives.
Until the Lord completes His refining process, the offerings we make are not made in righteousness and cannot be acceptable. Thank God that Jesus is our righteousness and that there is no righteousness apart from Him. Still, the Lord continues to purge all that is not of His righteousness out of our lives. This comes through trials that bring each of us to the end of ourselves in order that He may only reflect that which is Himself.

When God takes you through the refiner's fire, be encouraged because it is His overriding commitment to turn you from a rough, hard-edged stone to a precious metal. He will do this through certain events in your workplace, your relationships, and other circumstances in your life. Our job is to avoid trying to blow out the fire.

Birthday Boy Ogot Turns 60!

Meet our March celebrant, Augusto "Kuya Ogot" Jacobo.

Kuya Ogot turned 60 last March 5, 2008, and confesses that he does not feel any older. Well, he doesn't look that old anyway. Try playing tennis with him and you'll see!

Friends and relatives are blessed by the great transformation that is evident in Kuya Ogot's life. He is a walking testimony of our Lord's goodness. A true and caring friend to everyone; generous, humble, thoughtful and loving: this man truly shines!

Kuya Ogot, continue to shine and be a blessing to the people around you.

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Happy Hearts Day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Feb Celebrants!!!

Isang Panawagan

Nanawagan lang po ako sa mga manunuod ng programang ito.... Bakit naman nakalimutan na naman ninyong batiin ang kumpare kong may birthday. Eh di ba ginawa na ninyo yan noon? Aba'y kalabisan na naman yan ba! Sige, batiin na habang di huli ang lahat... at kung hindi.... hindi ko kayo tatantanan!

A Fresh Start for Sienna

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:9-10

Finally the group is off to start the ministry that has been prayed for for a long time! Today, February 2, we launch a new couples' ministry, where couples, who are close to our hearts have been invited to experience the joy of being in a care group. About 15 couples have been in our prayers for the past month and we are hopeful that today, 3 to 4 groups will begin to enjoy the benefits of meeting together to uplift and encourage one another, talk about improving family relationships, and most especially study God's word and spiritually grow in Him.

Truly the Lord has been faithful to us for He provided us sufficient time to prepare our hearts to serve Him. It has not been easy, for we had to face trials-- tests of humility, forgiveness, patience, and self-control. We thank God for He who began the good work in us will see us through!

Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed! Do not fear what they fear, do not be frightened!. But in your hearts, set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give a reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good, than for doing evil. I Peter 3:13-17.

So, whatever happens, we shall press forward and run the race, for we know that the Good Lord will always be there to cheer us up till we finish the good work that He began in us!

NOT TO US BUT TO YOU OH LORD, BE THE GLORY FOREVER AND EVER!

Happy Birthday Elmer!

H
A
P
P
Y
*
B
I
R
T
H
D
A
Y
!!
!!
!!

E - Ever-faithful servant of God. Elmer, our birthday celebrant for this month came to know the Lord in his teenage years during a youth camp. Since then, he remained faithful and grew spiritually by 1. serving and being with fellow Christians; 2. regularly attending services; 3. reading the Bible as well as Christian books and ofcourse; 4. spending time with the Lord.
L - Leader: Elmer is the appointed and annointed leader of Sienna Cell Group; He is an elder of FECP-Aurora; born to lead, he is usually chosen or voted to lead groups- as in schools, his office, church, peer groups.
M - Married! Sorry ladies, this man is no longer available! He is married to Joy and blessed with four kids: Aaron Josh, Al Jason, Anthony Jake and Anne Jenzelle.
E - Energetic. He seems to have a lot of energy - stays up late, yet wakes up very early.
R - Responsible: a good provider to his family; a faithful husband; a leader who always comes to meetings prepared; a servant who devotes time to seek the Word.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELMER!
(January 9)

Christmas 2007 with the Clowns

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Danny and Chris!

BIRTHDAY BOY NO. 1 (Dec 15): DANNY DE CHEF, the teacher, friend, brother, father, and ehem...the future "pastor!" - so we pray.
Danny runs a canteen, "Mila's Eatery," located at Gen. Ordoñez Street, Marikina City. Go visit the place and have a taste of the best bopis in town! He is involved in the children's ministry. He feeds kids with his best food and with the word of God!

BIRTHDAY BOY NO. 2 (Dec 21): CHRIS THE ATHLETE, the singer (choir member yan!), guitarist, dancer, cyclist, swimmer, waaaaah - in short the hyperactive!!!Being involved in a travel agency, Chris is a traveller himself! (Eh hyperactive nga eh!)
Watch out for this man because he is about to rock the church with his desire to be used as God's vessel! This man is ready to serve and use his talents all for the glory of God!

Happy Birthday to you Danny and Chris! We love you!

TAGAYTAY RETREAT

Tagaytay Retreat, Nov 30 to Dec 31, 2007

Sienna Cell Group had an awesome encounter with the Lord during the recently held retreat at the rest house of Malang, the well-known Filipino Painter, in Tagaytay. Thanks to Steve Santos, Malang's son, and a close friend of Monty's, who was truly a blessing. He warmly accommodated us in their beautiful "fully-airconditioned" 4-storey house. He even gave us a tour around the nearby tourist spots!

Truly, God moved upon each of us. He revealed and confirmed a lot of things. It is by God's grace that finally the group's desire to start a ministry has been confirmed as in accordance to His will. The vision, mission, objectives and plans have been plotted out and now are ready for presentation.

And the name of the ministry shall be:

C - Couples
O- On the move in
U- Unity to
P- Pray
L- Love
E- Encourage and
S- Share

Colosians 2:2 My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ.

A Glimpse of what transpired:

I. RATONALE

For several years, the Sienna Cell Group has been praying for a ministry which would involve each and every member of the team. Although some of us are already involved in different ministries in the church, our desire is to be in one common way of service with a common goal and set of objectives.

A very significant challenge by Kim Burdick to Sienna Cell group during its 8th year anniversary celebration on September 23, 2007, ignited the spirit of the Sienna couples to strengthen the existing Couples Ministry.

The group was encouraged to pray for wisdom and confirmation of God’s will. This led to a month-long series of weekly meetings of praise, worship and prayer. God further revealed many things like:
· Confession of sins to and forgiveness for one another
· Prayer for the body of Christ
· Empowerment of couples, seeking God’s power and anointing
· Individual Consecration
· Affirmation of the group’s prayer and desire

The challenge: sharing the joy, the inspiring experiences and the bonding activities of Sienna couples as they live a Christ-centered life. This will indeed be an encouragement among the couples of Faith Fellowship Aurora (FFA).

II. VISION
Spirit-filled couples, empowered to love, serve, and witness for Christ.

III. MISSION
The Couples Ministry seeks to encourage other couples and strengthen their spiritual lives, as well as that of their families by meeting together, uplifting one another, equipping with God’s Word, and witnessing for Christ.

IV. OBJECTIVES
The Couples Ministry aims to:
· strengthen the relationships of couples
· build strong families serving and witnessing for God’s kingdom and glory
· win the hearts of spouses who are not yet in the cell group and not members of FFA and eventually join the fellowship and provide couples the opportunity to be involved in various ministries

V. POSSIBLE ACTIVITIES
A. To Strengthen relationship of couples
· A weekend to remember (for couples)
· Recovery Programs
· Usapang Mag-asawa
· Counseling programs

B. Build strong families, serving and witnessing for God’s kingdom and glory
· Family Day/sports fest
· Witnessing
· Cell group

C. Win the hearts of spouses who are not yet members of FFA and eventually join the fellowship
· Call centers
· Mailers
· Texters
· Home visitation
· Hosting

D. Provide couples the opportunity to be involved in various ministries
· Leadership training
· Spiritual gifts discovery

Does Prayer Really Work?

Does Prayer Really Work? BS -November 9, 2007, Attendance - 13

Principles

Unanswered prayer is a major obstacle that stands in the way of a life of true faith.
- People have lost their faith because of unanswered prayer.
- Some turned to horoscopes, psychics, etc.
- Others focus on materialistic things.
- We agree that prayer is important but we secretly wonder:
a. Does GOD really hear me when I pray?
b. Why is prayer so boring and fruitless for me?
c. Shouldn’t I expect my prayers to be answered?
d. Is GOD mad at me? Is that why He doesn’t answer me?
- The greatest difficulty in most believers' experience is their prayer lives.

Unanswered prayer can lead to these results:

We feel abandoned and isolated from GOD, imagining that HE doesn’t care about our problems. As a result, we begin to doubt HIS love for us and see HIM as someone who is against us.

We question GOD’s character and integrity.We begin to distrust HIM , eroding our basis for belief and causing our relationship with to suffer.

We feel as if our lives are very unsettled and unstable. We may ask, Can I really depend on GOD? What can I really count on in regard to prayer? Then we begin to rely on ourselves, or other people, groups or beliefs instead of appropriating the power and promises of GOD to meet our needs.

We come to premature conclusions about ourselves and prayers. We conclude that our prayers are not being answered because we lack faith. This means, that we don’t understand the principles and truths concerning prayer that GOD has given us in HIS word for our benefit.

We doubt our calling as GOD’s intercessors. We begin to think “answered prayer must be only for the super natural Christians”. Thus, we abandon a major purpose of GOD for our lives.

When we experience these consequences of unanswered prayer, we are tempted to ask the question posed in JOB 21:15, “What would we gain by praying to HIM?”. But the real question is ‘ What are we losing by not praying to GOD?”

A great many believers don’t have successful prayer lives- and successful lives in general- because they simply don’t know how or why to pray.

Many Christians today are experiencing powerlessness, lack of direction, little victory over sin, poor spiritual progress, a weak witness, unfruitful ministry, poverty and other similar problems because they don’t know hoe or why to pray.

Christians know certain principles of prayer, but are not fulfilling their full potential as intercessors because they don’t understand key aspects of prayer.

Prayer is not just an activity, a ritual, an obligation. Nor is it begging GOD to do what we want HIM to do. It is communion and communication with GOD that touches HIS heart. When you understand the principles of the art of prayer, you will begin to communicate with GOD with power, grace and confidence.

Prayer has the power to transform lives, change circumstances, give peace, and perseverance in the midst of trials, alter course of nations, and win the world for Christ.

The power of prayer is the inheritance of the believer.

To understand prayer, we need to recognize the following:

Prayer activity that does not bring results is an indication that something is wrong. When prayer isn’t answered, the Word of GOD generally provides an indication of why it was not answered, gives insight into the kind of prayers GOD responds to and points out what can stall our prayers.

Every prayer based on the Word of GOD and offered in faith by a person who is in right relationship with GOD is answered. GOD answers as soon as we ask and He reveals those answers in HIS timing. That is why Jesus told his disciples that they should always pray and not give up, Luke 18:1.

GOD is faithful to answer prayer. Read Mark 11:24
GOD’s will and Word do work when they are understood and put into practice. Learn how to pray in a way that embodies the truths and principles of prayer GOD has given us in His Word.
True prayer will do the following:
1. build intimacy with GOD
2. bring honor to HIS nature and character
3. cause respect for HIS integrity
4. cause a trust in HIS love
5. enable belief in HIS Word
6. Affirm HIS purposes and will
7. appropriate HIS promises

GOD is loving and gracious. He knows we have a limited understanding of Himself and His ways, and that we struggle with our fallen nature. That is why He will at times answer our prayers even when they are weak and full of doubt. However, he wants us to grow and mature. He does not want to leave us in weaknesses and uncertainty. He wants us to enter into HIS purposes, because that is where we can truly be children of our heavenly Father, work together with HIM, and live the abundant life Christ came to give us (John 10:10). Therefore, at times , He will withhold answers to prayer so we will seek HIM.

Praying without understanding and applying the truths and principles of prayers in ineffective.

Prayer is meant to be answered or else GOD would not ask us to pray.

He is not interested is wasting your time and efforts. He is too practical for that. He is interested in results, not just “many words” (matt, 6:7) spoken in prayer. Jesus didn’t pray without expecting to be heard, read John 11:41-42

We need to pray as Jesus prayed.

Questions to Cell members:

How often do I pray?
Is prayer a mystery to me?
Are there aspects of prayer that are confusing or unclear to me?
Have I experienced unanswered prayer?
How has that made me feel about prayer, about GOD, and about myself?
Am I experiencing powerlessness, lack of direction, little victory over sin, poor spiritual progress, a weak witness , unfruitful ministry, poverty, or other similar problems?
How would answered prayer make a difference in my life?

BS led by Elmer, Nov 9, 2007, Attendance - 13

Men of Faith in Action!

Preparing to Pray - BS October 31, 2007, Attendance - 15

Ten Steps To Preparedness in Prayer

1. Appropriate God’s Grace Leviticus 16:3 – 11
Acknowledge God’s Holiness, turn away from your sins and be cleansed through the blood of Christ. Ask the following questions:

a. Am I in a position to approach GOD in Holiness?
b. Have I examined my own life?
c. Have I been involved in things that are contrary to His word and His law of love?

Read Hebrew 10:25. This is a command.
Read Malachi 3:8-10 Asking for Financial Blessing without tithing.
Read 1 John 1:9 God’s faithfullnes to forgive sins.
Read Isiah 59:2 Iniquities
Read Psalm 19:12 Hidden sins
Read Psalm 103: 11-12 God’s promised on forgiveness.
Read Hebrew 7:27; 1 John 1:7
GOD is serious about holiness and obedience. We can’t live in sin and unbelief if we want our prayers answered.

2. Put on Rightneousness

The priest was to wear the right clothes- the clothes God said to wear. Ephesians 4:24
Why was the priest to wear Linen? Linen is a fabric that breathes, there was to be no perspiration in God’s presence, Why? It is because sweat represents rebellion against GOD, read Gen 3:17-19.
Sweat represents any attempt to reach GOD on our own merits. It means trying to work ourselves into God’s presence.
Isaiah 61:10 when we put on God’s righteousness, we can rejoice before the lord.

3. Put on Truth and Honesty

Be Transparent and clean before the Lord, desiring truth in the innermost parts and living with integrity.
Leviticus 16:4 He is to tie the linen sash around him. The sash covers the most delicate areas of your life, the parts you don’t like to talk about. The secret life only you know about. Read Psalm 51:6; Ephesians 6:14; Psalm 24:3-4

4. Cleanse with Word

Before you come before GOD, make sure that you’ve read the WORD, that the WORD is in you, and that you are obeying the WORD.
Leviticus 16:4 . These are sacred garments; so he must bathe himself with water before he puts them on.
Read John 15:3; John 17:17; Ephesians 5: 25-26 Psalm 119:9-11
You need to make sure your are in the word when you come before GOD, that the word is in you and that you are obeying the word. Otherwise, you will enter God’s presence with your own Ideas and attitudes.
Collosians 3:9
You become what you listen to. You become what you think. You become what's in your mind. If your mind is filled with the Word of GOD, then you will start becoming what it says. It will wash you.

5. Worship and Praise GOD

Honor and worship GOD in spirit and in truth (John 4:19-24), acknowledging HIM as your All in All.
Leviticus 16:12-13 Incense is the symbol of worship.

6. Separate Yourself

Remove yourself from your normal environment, activities and distractions. Find the place in GOD where He meets you by coming to him with the right heart, attitude and motives.
Leviticus 16:17
Jeremiah 29:13
God has prepared a place in HIM just for you, and you need to enter that place. If your heart, your attitude or your motives aren’t right – if there are things in your life that aren’t right – GOD says, "You are not yet in the place where I want to be."
When you make it to that place in GOD, everybody will know it because you are sparkling, Isaiah 58:8

7. Believe

Have faith in God’s power to do what He has promised and in the effectiveness of Christ’s sacrifice.
Leviticus 16: 18-19
Horn represent Power.
When you feel spiritually dry, when you are not experiencing God’s power, examine your life. Check to see if you are right with God.
Hebrew 7:27; Romans 3:25; Hebrew 9:11-14; 1 john 2;2

8. Give God the Glory

Confess that GOD is the ONE who accomplished your atonement, forgiveness, and reconciliation with HIM and is worthy to be praised. Give to Others out of the abundance GOD has given you.
Leviticus 16:25
Fat is a symbol of glory because fat is excesses.
Read Isiah 42:8 48:11
God loves Glory.

9. Wash in the Word

Ask GOD to fulfill His purposes based on HIS will and the promises of His Word
The first one is for cleansing and the second one is appropriating GOD’s promises.
Leviticus 16;26
Read Philippians 4:6
Wash yourself in the Word by asking GOD to fulfill His purposes based on his will and promises.

10. Remain in the anointing
Remain in a state of preparedness for prayer. Honor the Lord by reflecting His nature and character in your life.
Leviticus 16: 32-34
Remember to Follow his instructions and ways to remain in HIS presence.

BS October 31, 2007 - led by Elmer, Attendance - 15

Sienna's Activities for Nov and Dec 2007

Schedule of Cell group activities for November and December 2007

Oct 31...................................Cell meeting - Bible Study

..............................................Presentation of First Draft:
..............................................Vision & objectives re: Proposed Couples Ministry

Nov 2... Fri..... 7pm............. Praise, Worship and Prayer
........7... Wed... 8:30............ Praise, Worship and Prayer
.......9.... Fri..... 7:00............ TGIF
.....14....Wed... 8:30............ Praise, Worship and Prayer
.....16... Fri...... 8:30........... Cell meeting (Bible Study)
.....21....Wed....8:30........... Praise, Worship and Prayer
.....23....Fri......9:00........... Cell meeting (Bible Study)
.....28....Wed...8:30........... Praise, Worship and Prayer
.....30 Fri, 2:00 Brainstorming, Final Drafting, Tagaytay

Dec 5 Wed, 8:30 Thanksgiving
7 Fri, 7:00 TGIF
8 Sat, Presentation of proposal/plan to PJun
14 Fri 9:00 Cell Meeting (BS and evaluation)
15 Sat Kuya Danny's birthday!
21 Fri 9:00 Cell meeting (BS & party planning)
Chris' birthday!
22 Sat 7:00 Sienna - Christmas Party

PRAYER, BS October 26, 2007 Attendance - 15

PRAYER

Why do so many people avoid prayer?
Perhaps it is because the human spirit hates failure and disappointments. It is like putting money into a vendo machine that doesn’t give a can of soft drink. You stand in front of it becoming increasingly frustrated, until you finally kick it and walk away. You also never attempt to use it again.
This is how many people feel about prayer. They have put in too many prayers and have received too few satisfying answers or non at all.

We need to answer the following questions:
What is prayer?
Why doesn’t prayer seem to work?
Why is prayer necessary?
How should we pray?
Why pray to GOD in the name of Jesus?
Why is prayer not always answered the way we expect it?
When should we stop praying?
What role does faith have in the prayer process?
Do we have to “qualify” to pray?
If GOD is sovereign and can do whatever He wishes, then why pray?
Does prayer affect or change destiny?

All of us struggle with prayer..

THE FOUNDATION OF PRAYER

To understand the principle of prayer, it is necessary to UNDERSTAND THE MIND AND PURPOSE OF THE CREATOR HIMSELF.

Prayer is a result of GOD’s established authority structure between heaven and earth, as well as a product of his faithfulness to His word.

Prayer is as simple as respecting GOD’s authority.

Prayer was born out of GOD’s arrangements for man’s assignment on earth, it happened when the Creator spoke two words during the creation process: “LET THEM”. Read Genesis 1:26-27

Important things to note in these verses:

The creator defined the boundaries of HIS right to legally influence and interfere in the earth realm.
This is based on the principle of God’s integrity and His commitment to His word.
Define the relationship the Creator intended and desired with man and the planet earth.

Why are these so important? Because of the 4 principles:

God’s purpose is more important than our plans.
God has placed His Word even above Himself.
God will never violate or break His word.
God’s holiness is the foundation of His integrity and faithfulness.

These principles are essential to understanding the nature and purpose of prayer. Thus, this makes prayer necessary.

The 1st principle establishes the truth that the Creator’s commitment to His original intent for creation is a priority for HIM and motivates and regulates all His actions. In essence, everything He does is driven by His purposed desire, which never changes. Read following scriptures:

Proverbs 19:21-22
Isaiah 46:10-11
Isaiah 55:11-12
Ephesians 1:11
Hebrew 6:17

Finally, His commitment to his purpose is expressed in these words, Matthew 5:18-19.

a.This means that GOD has eternal uncompromising commitment to His purpose and plans.
b. His commitment to fulfill His purpose will never be at the expense of violating His spoken or written word.
c. It is the commitment to His word that is the basis of the prayer principle.
d. The word of GOD is not just the law for man, for it also called “The Law of GOD”. This means that every word GOD speaks is also a law to Himself. He will subject Himself to His promises and decrees because of His integrity. Read Psalm 119:89-90, Psalm 138:2

Therefore, we can conclude that any Law of GOD is a Law to GOD. He is faithful to His word at all costs. This being clear and understood by us, we can appreciate the implications and impact of these initial words spoken by the Creator at man’s creation:

LET THEM HAVE DOMINION OVER…THE EARTH Gen 1:26. Please take note, He did not say LET US but rather, LET THEM. With this statement, GOD created seven primary laws:

The legal authority to dominate earth was given to mankind only.
God did not include Himself in the legal authority structure over the earth.
Man became the legal steward of the earth domain.
Man is a spirit with a physical body; therefore, only spirits with physical bodies can legally function in the earth realm.
Any spirit without a body is illegal on earth.
Any influence or interference from the supernatural realm on earth is only legal through mankind.
God Himself, who is a Spirit without a physical body, made Himself subject to this law.

The following are the results of these laws, which were established by GOD Himself:

The legal authority on earth is in the hands of humankind.
The Creator, because of His integrity, will not violate the law of His Word.
Nothing will happen in the earth realm without the active or passive permission of man, who is its legal authority.
The Creator and the heavenly beings cannot interfere in the earth realm without the cooperation or permission of mankind.
God must obtain the agreement and cooperation of a person for whatever He desires to do in the earth.

These principles are critical for understanding the nature, power and purpose of prayer. It is from these that we get our definition of prayer.

What is Prayer?
Prayer is man giving God the legal right and permission to interfere in earth’s affairs.
Prayer is a man giving heaven earthly license to influence earth.
Prayer is a terrestrial license for celestial interference.
Prayer is man exercising his legal authority on earth to invoke heaven’s influence on the planet.
Read 2 Chron. 7:14; Luke 18:1-2; Eph 6:17-18; 1 Thess 5:16-19; Matt 16:19-20; Matt 18:18-20

Prayer is therefore not an option for mankind but a necessity. If we don’t pray, heaven cannot interfere in earth’s affair. It is imperative that we take responsibility for the earth and determine what happens here by our prayer lives.

I invite you to discover your power, authority and rights in the earth and to position yourself to become a faith channel for heavenly influence in earth’s affairs.

Remember the Lord’s prayer, Matt 6:9-11.

Heaven needs you.
We need also to study and seek the word. Read proverbs 2

Assignment: Each cell member to memorize, recite and study at least one verses every cell meeting.
Make a covenant with GOD.

Bible Study led by Elmer, October 26, 2007 Attendance 15
Reference: PRAYER, Dr. Myles Munroe

BIRTHDAY NA NI KAPUSONG ROMY!

Men's Fellowship Na Po!

Knowledge and Trust, September 28, 2007 Attendance - 12

KNOWLEDGE AND TRUST

DO WE REALLY TRUST GOD?

Habakkuk tells of how he traveled the road from WHY to WONDER then finally to WORSHIP.
As GOD began speaking to Habakkuk, the change in the prophet was dramatic. He began to see with new eyes. Habakkuk 3:17-19
Habakkuk recognizes that times may be good or bad, and circumstances may change but none of these has anything to do with our praise and worship. Our adoration remains constant because GOD is constant.

The Secret of Inner Strength

The story of the trees in the forest: Some are uprooted during the storm and some trees draw on a deep strength from the very foundation and they continue to stand firm. Their roots only dig deeper, their bark only grows thicker.

What is the difference that other people keep praising GOD even when life becomes harsh and cruel? What is the secret?

Consider Habakkuk who passed from tragedy to triumph, from worry to worship, from preoccupation to praise.

WE WORSHIP WHOM WE TRUST, AND WE TRUST WHOM WE KNOW

Worship is only validated through constancy. We worship and praise GOD even when we are in the valley, when we are in the worst circumstances.
We reach this level of faith when we worship whom we trust and we trust whom we worship.
We can build trust by spending time with GOD. When we spend time with GOD we come to fully know HIM. When we fully know him, the trust gets stronger and stronger. This is the time that you are able to worship GOD in spirit and in truth.

It’s Not What You Know, But Whom You Know

We intensely focus on gaining knowledge about GOD that we miss the knowledge of GOD.

It’s the difference between reading about the vitamins and the taste of beef, than biting into a thick sirloin steak hot off the grill. It’s the difference between knowing facts about GOD and experiencing HIS powerful presence.
To trust GOD, we must know HIM. But to come to know GOD, we must first trust HIM, at least a little bit. Right?
To experience the fullness of worship, we must trust the ONE we worship. And to trust HIM, we must know him.

-Have you felt as if you knew all the facts about GOD but your prayers never passed the ceiling? -Have you ever realized that your quiet time/morning devotion has become a dry bible study rather than a warm visit to your heavenly father.

We need truth and theology. The right information is essential. But above all else, we need relationship.

Reading between the lines

The story of a young lady who loved to read.
-A friend gave her a book, a must read book.
-Initially she found it the worst boring book she read in her life time.
-She attended a party and fell in love with the host
-She later found out that the book was about making a conversation at the party
-The author of the book was the host
- She read the book again and this time, she found it to be the greatest book she has ever read.

It makes a great deal of difference to know someone rather than simply to know his words.

Why would you care reading Habakkuk, Corinthians, the four gospels, the letters of Paul?
You read them because you’ve fallen in love with the ONE responsible for those writings, and it makes all the difference, HIS loving inscription is in our hearts.

Get the Picture

The story of Count Von Zinzendorf, the greatest missionary who ever lived:
- One day he visited a museum of fine art.
- He remained in one spot for 5 hours looking at one artpiece.
- The curator of the museum got concerned and wanted to find out why the man has been staring on one particular piece of art.
- The curator found out that it was a painting of The Holy lamb of God. But what surprised him was that tears were rolling down the man’s cheeks.
- Underneath the painting was this inscription : IF HE CARED THAT MUCH FOR YOU, WHAT SHOULD YOUR CONCERN BE FOR HIM?

He was contemplating on that question for 5 hours. He was lost in the greatness and the love of Christ, who had given His all for him. He was worshipping deeply, profoundly and emotionally.

Count VON was moved because the subject of the canvas/art was already the dearest to him, his Lord, his Master, his great love and his closest friend.

The count knew how to connect with GOD and to praise Him wherever he might be.

Your worship hat must always be worn on your head. A beautiful sky, a friend's smile or a completed task could be all the reason you would need to take a moment in your day for the WONDER OF WORSHIP.

This might be a struggle right now. But trust HIM and you will Know that he is GOD who will not forsake you. Psalm 9:10

- Elmer, September 28, 2007 Attendance -12

The Big Night...Glory to God!

What a wonderful night!

Looking Back at "Walong Pares sa Ika-Walong Beses"

September 21, 2007 was a really wonderful night for Sienna group... a night to remember.

Thanks to our special guests: Pastor Brent and lovely Kim; Pastors Jun and Ginger (with cute little kiddos Betong and Kulas- pasok ang names sa theme!); Pastor Matty and friend, Ate Alice and Pastor BJay (acted as the official video/camera guy--thanks!). Our honor and privilege to have you with us on this special night.

Food was great! All Filipino, walang itulak-kabigin. Thanks Ate Lani, for the wonderful food mix and match suggestions. Kuya Ogot, your special ampalaya was a blockbuster.

The ambiance...thanks to Ate Cristy and Kuya Ogot's generosity of providing for the venue. Special thanks to Kuya Ogot for his industry and patience for creating a festive atmosphere. I'm sure it wasn't that easy to prepare the "banderitas," having to staple each of the hundreds of colorful flags. Well, it was worth it.. because it created a happy, happy ambiance. Kim loved it very much. Of course each of us did! It is well appreciated.

Our emcees, Jun and Joy, good job, no practice but managed to let the program flow smoothly. Adlibs were appropriate and fun! Pero kung binasaya sana, perfect na intawon!!!

The presentations:
Women... good job, good job! You have just been booked for a repeat performance of that wonderful "Paru-parong Bukid" dance. Thanks to Beth, our choreographer, for the beautiful steps. The women had fun during the rehearsals and even in the actual performance. It showed in their smiling faces and in fact the guests loved it!

Men... that was a great wacky performance! Great singers and actors! Thanks to Cris for the compositions! "Talentado ka talaga!" Guys you looked funny yet so handsome, your wives are just so proud of you!

Re the booking, we have just been invited to dance in the January welcome party of the Burdicks for some special relatives who are about to arrive early next year. The men are of course enjoined to dance with the women this time. We'll see if we can have Pastor Brent and Kim dance with us, too. They're willing to try, so they say! So, ihanda ang stock na Flanax, para di manakit ang mga buto!


Other highlights...

Pastor Matty's surprise Birthday greetings and cake: Teary-eyed she was, but managed to thank the group for the support, and loyalty to one another. Challenge is for the cell to grow and reach out to others.

Pastor Brent expressed his admiration to each of the members for being faithful to each other, and made special mention of the handsome pairs of red pants the men were wearing. Please take note of it... now we don't have to think of what to give him on Christmas!

Kim managed to give a Filipino message in the beginning (tongue-twisted though), and having the permission to continue in English, expressed how she appreciates our special bonding towards one another and gave the challenge to inspire and influence other cell groups to have the same joyful spirit in them so as to stay stronger together in God's glory. So, let's not keep the joy to ourselves...spread it. Let's create an outbreak!

Our beloved love team, Pastors Jun and Ginger thanked everyone for the support they have been receiving from the beginning. Our response to you, our dear pastors, "Please remember you are part of the group, and it's always a joy to serve and be by your side. You have been a wonderful blessing to Sienna."

Our cell leader, Elmer, closed with a commitment (take note!) that each of the 16 members, especially the men, are now spiritually mature and ready to serve in whatever ministry the Lord has in store for the group. "Be ready guys, surely the Lord has great plans for us. We are actually long overdue! Let's start working!"

For our vision and mission... just keep tuned! Talk about it on the next blog. But first, thanks to Ate Chic and Kuya Romy for sharing their insights...

The Games!
Not to forget...games were great... thanks Ate Aida for providing the fun games, the mechanics, the props and the prizes! Bless you... bless you!!!
Fun fun fun!
Maria and Mario went to market! Ang gagandang bakla!!!
Patayan ng kandila: naglabasan ang madadaya! hehehe!
The modified charades! I can still remember how we almost ran out of breath during Kuya Romy's enactment of "Baog na Lamok!" and Ate Aida's "bubuli... what was that again?" Grabe, nakakangawit ng panga! Naglabasan ang mga genio sa hulaan at pahulaan... Kuya Monty, for the talakitok, Elmer- hirap magpahula, Joel ang bilis manghula ng kung anu-ano, Kuya Ogot ang anay na bakla!!! Cris for the quick guesses with matching hampas ng tsinelas, Kuya Jun sa effort for starting this game!!!
Girls... not much of an actor, but great thinkers aren't we? Right, Dahl? heheh!

So to all of us, CHEERS!!! Congratulations for that wonderful celebration of our 8th anniversary.

To God be the glory for He is great and awesome and most worthy of our praises!

Oy Oy OY Birthday Boy!!!

Sienna Celebrates 8th Anniversary

Walong Pares sa Ika-Walong Beses

Ika-walong anibersaryo na ng Sienna ngayong Setyembre, 2007 at maligayang ipinagdiriwang ng buong grupo ang masaya at matibay na pagsasamahan ng walong pares na kinabibilangan ng mag-aasawang sina: Monty at Lani Sarabia, Elmer at Joy Rombaoa, Chris at Beth Santos,Joel at Dahlia Alcaraz, Jun at Aida Solano, Romy at Chic Rosalinas, Danny at Mila Tai, Ogot at Cristy Jacobo.

Isang pagsasalu-salo ang gaganapin sa gabi ng ika-21 ng Setyembre, kasama ang mga pastor ng FECP-Aurora. Ihahain ang masasarap na lutuing Pilipino, at idaraos ang kasiyahan na may temang tunay na Pilipino: mga awit, sayaw, harana at iba pa.

Sa ating Panginoong Dakila at Tapat ang aming taos-pusong pasasalamat para sa mga biyaya ng matibay at maligayang samahan.

MALIGAYANG BATI SA ATING IKA-WALONG ANIBERSARYO at NAWA'Y LALO PANG MAG-IBAYO ANG BUHAY NI KRISTO SA ATING GRUPO!!!

Principles for Asking, BS August 31, 2007

"I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." John 14:13-14

• Ask in the Spirit. Every request proceeds from the mind of the spirit, not from selfish motives or self-serving ends. Praying in the Spirit is directly related to praying according to His will. (Eph 6:18)
• Ask according to His will. Our weakness in prayer is that we don't know what we ought to pray for. The Spirit himself intercedes for us in accordance to God's will (Rom 8:26-27). When you do not know what to pray, keep praying and seeking God's direction for your prayer. (1John 5:14-15)
• Ask with the mind. Your mind helps you form your requests and make them precise and specific. This is one reason to list prayer requests in a notebook. A prayer list keeps your mind from wandering as you pray and enables you to pray specifically and persistently until the answer comes. (1Cor 14:15)
• Ask in Jesus' name. When you use Jesus' name, you claim to represent Him and act like Him--to have His desires, qualities, gratitude, and outlook. When you prepare to make a request, first ask yourself, "what would Jesus want in this situation?" (John 14:14)
• Ask while abiding in Christ. Prayer is both a means and a result of abiding in Christ. Continue in constant fellowhip with Him, pray without ceasing, and you obediently accept His will and Word for you. (John 15:7)
• Ask in faith. Ask without doubt in your heart. Have confidence in God's care and purposes for your life. (Mark 11:22,24)
• Ask in humility. Recognize your need of God. Submit to God. Understand who God is. Come to God recognizing His greatness and your need. (2 Chron 7:14)
• Ask in sincerity. Let faith lead you to pray genuine, heartfelt prayers. Let your prayer be earnest and fervent, not fake or artificial. (Jas 5:16)
• Ask with perseverance. Don't give up! God expects you to persevere in prayer to make sure of what He wants and of what you want. (Eph 6:18)

BS study led by Monty, Aug 31, 2007. Attendance - 8

Wise WHYs of Worship, BS August 24, 2007

Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise Him...Sing to Him a new song, play skillfully and shout for joy! - Psalm 33:1-3

Why Worship?

• Worship is an act of obedience - Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name, worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness. Psalm 29:2 We are commanded to worship the Lord for His beauty and holiness, and as children of God who seek to please Him, let us obey and worship Him with all our hearts and souls, for this is what pleases Him. Let our worship come from obedience and a grateful heart.
  
• Worship is an act of reverence - You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things and by Your will, they were created and have their being. - Rev 4:11Worship is the proper recognition and celebration of God, returning to Him the glory that He alone deserves and honoring Him with our lives and our words.
• Worship is an acknowledgement of Christ's sacrifice - The Lord our God made a great holy sacrifice to bring us back to Him and make us His heirs. It is but fitting to thank Him with all our hearts and offer our lives as a living sacrifice. So then, my friends, because of God's great mercy to us...offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to His service and pleasing to Him. This is the true worship that you should offer. -Romans 12:1


• Worship is a reflection of our lives - Shout with joy to God, all the earth. Sing the glory of His name, make His praise glorious! Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds! How great is your power!" Psalm 66:1-3Let our achievements, successes and blessings be for the glory of God. For without Him we are nothing. Every good gift is from above and points back to its source. It is all for the glory of God.

Let us not run short of joy. Let us stock up on it so that our church, homes and workplace are overflowing with joy. Let's drench our everyday lives with joy and the wonder of worship. All we need to do is turn our eyes heavenward and celebrate what we see.

-Elmer

BS Aug 24, 2007 Attendance - 9

FECP Sienna Photo Album

FECP Sienna Cell Group started in September, 1999. The first meeting was attended by Monty and Lani Sarabia, Elmer and Joy Rombaoa, and Beth Santos. In less than a month, Dahlia Alcaraz joined in and very soon Chris Santos, Joel Alcaraz and spouses Jun and Aida Solano followed. Two more couples: Romy and Chic Rosalinas, and Danny and Mila Tai joined in after a few months, and FECP Sienna cell group became complete with all seven pairs meeting regularly on Fridays, 9:00 pm on Sienna Street, Marikina City, recently, with Ogot and Christy Jacobo, as our newest members. Elmer Rombaoa facilitates the study of the Word. Together these group members hold a Christ-centered bond of friendship and brotherhood under God's care and grace. All praises be to our God. Hallelujah!

Worship an Everyday Lifestyle-BS August 10, 2007

Sienna Cell Group Bible Study - August 10, 2007
"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." I Cor. 16:19-20
God created us for a purpose, and that is to bring Him pleasure. As children of God, it is our duty to live a life that is pleasing to him. "So, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" I Cor. 10:31. Anything we do that brings pleasure to God is an act of worship.
Dynamics of Worship
Everyday Worship in Solitude - Begin with your personal time with God. "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him." Ps 37:7; Come near to God and He will come near to you." James 4:8. Maintain a personal relationship with the Lord through prayer in solitude. Listen to His voice and obey. Pray without ceasing. Luke 18:1
Everyday Worship in Service - "Become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Glory in Christ Jesus in service to God." Rom 15:16-17. Get involved in ministries; help in the building of God's kingdom; or in whatever you do, just do it for the glory of our Lord.
Everyday Worship in Struggle - In times of struggle, through storms and difficulties, stand firm and know that He is God. "Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4.
Everyday Worship in Sacrifice - Sacrifice some of your time, leisure and self-gratification. Do not conform to the patterns of this world. Rather, "Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship," Rom 12:1.
"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Rom 12:12.

You are God's TEMPLE ON WHEELS. Wherever you go, whatever you do, let worship be part of you, and let God's light so shine upon you and reflect the glory of God! Make worship your everyday lifestyle.

-Elmer

BS August 10, 2007, Attendance - 13