From Fellowship to Mission: A Visit That Inspired New Possibilities

The Philippines—When Rev. Antonio Reyes, President of the Lutheran Church in the Philippines, arrived in Neepawa after LCC’s National Convention, he expected to preach for several Sundays. What he discovered was a congregation faithfully serving Christ in a community full of new mission opportunities.

During four weeks at Christ Lutheran Church, Rev. Reyes experienced generous hospitality from the congregation while taking time to learn about Neepawa’s rapidly growing Filipino community. Visits to Filipino-owned businesses, the Settlement Office, the Salvation Army, and conversations with local residents provided a clearer picture of the needs—and opportunities—for sharing the Gospel.

“The members welcomed us with open hearts,” Rev. Reyes wrote. “They made us feel like part of their church family.”

The visit also coincided with Zion Lutheran Church in Plumas celebrating its 125th anniversary, allowing the visitors to witness God’s faithfulness across generations of Lutheran ministry in Manitoba.

Conversations with Christ Lutheran Church leaders soon turned toward the future.

Among the ideas discussed were beginning a Vacation Bible School to connect with young families, exploring community ministries that support working parents, and developing outreach resources in Tagalog and Cebuano. Rev. Reyes also encouraged continued pastoral exchanges and stronger ties between LCC and the Lutheran Church in the Philippines.

Above all, he urged the congregation to pray that the Lord would provide a faithful pastor to lead its ministry in the years ahead.

As Rev. and Mrs. Reyes returned home, they expressed gratitude for the kindness shown by Christ Lutheran Church, Rev. James Vosper, Rev. Mark Smith, and the many people whose hospitality made the visit memorable.

Their visit demonstrated that the newly recognized fellowship between LCC and the Lutheran Church in the Philippines is already bearing fruit—not simply through formal agreements, but through relationships, shared ministry, and renewed opportunities to proclaim Christ together.

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