By Thomas C. Hanson
On Pentecost, the WCG officially launched a church in Pasadena designed especially for people associated with the Philippine-American community.
This coincided with the beginning of celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the Pasadena church.
Preparations to launch a Philippine church began last June when Bermie Dizon moved to the United States from his former pastorate in Davao City, Philippines at the request of Randal Dick, superintendent of missions.
"We began to develop a core group of members from Southern California and have been meeting monthly on Sundays since December," Mr. Dizon said. The church will now meet twice a month. Attendance ranges from 30 to 45 people.
"One purpose of Sunday worship services is to reach people who cannot worship with us on Saturday," Mr. Dizon said. "By adding a Sunday service, we increase our evangelistic opportunities."
The congregation will be called New Life Fellowship: a Congregation of the Worldwide Church of God. This coincides with the name of the magazine the Philippine Office publishes, New Life--Asia.
"Our goal is to plant churches in Philippine communities," Mr. Dizon said.
The church is pastored by Dee Bulante and his wife, Christine.
Dee said: "We will build a biblical community of authentic Christians who are Committed to growth, United in love and Passionate for Jesus.
"As Christians, we are empty cups that need to be filled by the Holy Spirit so we will overflow in love, compassion, kindness and mercy toward others.
"George Hart, pastor in Cincinnati, Ohio, committed himself and his churches to be our prayer partners as we go forward in our ministry. My wife, Christine, and I are touched by his enthusiasm and sincerity."
July 22, 1997, WN, page 11
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