Dear Balikatan Family,
. . . Our Hurried Life . . . ..
The month of August was very busy for us. Our full attention was on the preparation for our IVCF Annual Corporation Meeting. Erickson finished the IVCF Philippines Annual Report, Plans and Budget and presented them in the meeting last August 16. Dot managed to produce a new issue of Campus Impact newsletter and new IVCF brochure in time for the meeting. We are thankful to our partner printshop which printed the newsletters and brochures for free.
With IVCF Staff
The Corporation Meeting was well attended. The members approved the new RBM annual plans and budget for this school year. We praise the Lord for the IVCF constituents renewed commitment, support and passionate involvement to our ministry.
Dot with IVCF display
We praise God for the opportunities to be with students and graduates in several occasions, during the corporation meeting, at the Metro Manila Regional Units Saya-lympics, and when we joined the ISCF Get-Together in Cavite. The Resource Development Department team promoted IVCF at the United Church of the Good Shepherd in Mandaluyong. Erickson preached at their two worship services. And we met many IVCFers there. We enjoyed these kinds of activities. We missed doing these things.
With our graduate partners in Cavite
Both of us are now very involved with Faith Baptist Church. Erickson started preaching and leading the prayer time. Dot started to lead praise and worship, which she really enjoys. We, especially Zeik & Jahd, are enjoying new and renewed friendships at the church.
The kids are still adjusting to the new family dynamics. Though our office and house are in one building, we werent able to spend much time with them during the day, unlike in Baguio. They usually either fetch us or stay with us in the office when they miss us. Thats why we are so glad for the holidays this month. We were able to spend, not just quality, but quantity, time with them.
Dot with Faith Baptist Church worship team
Dot celebrated her 35th birthday last August 27. Erickson, Zeik and Jahd, surprised her by making breakfast (pancakes), birthday cards, no bake cheesecake, and by giving her a day off. The 3 of them did all the house chores that day. We had a very sumptuous lunch and roamed at the mall.
With their birthday cards
Our life this August was fast paced. We had so much work to do with so little time. But we try to slow down and take one day at a time. We know that we could only do so much and to just daily depend on Gods grace for our health, provision (Praise God our salaries are on time, PTL!), traveling mercies ( Pray for us as we go to Bicol on September 4-8), and inspiration. Pray that we could balance family life and ministry well. The Lord continually reassures us of our calling through His Words, students, graduates and friends.
Thank you very much for surrounding us with love and prayers. In our own ways, we also send you our love and concern. Praise the Lord for knitting our hearts and lives.
In His Care, .
Erickson & Dot .
with Zeik & Jahd