The Philippines is a vibrant nation of over 110 million people, scattered across more than 7,600 islands. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality and deep-rooted Christian heritage, it is the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia. Yet, despite the strong presence of churches, a spiritual crisis remains. Millions still do not have a personal relationship with Christ, and many communities are hungry for discipleship and access to the Word of God.
Harvesters is on the frontlines, addressing these needs through church planting, discipleship and pastoral training. As we launched our first church-planting movement – known as a Stream – with a Kick Off in Cebu, we shared our vision and strategy for rapid church multiplication through evangelism. Over one hundred pastors from Cebu, Leyte, Butuan and Manila committed themselves to the mission of church planting and discipleship.
The country, predominantly Roman Catholic, is in desperate need of churches planted among the rural poor, and of local leaders trained and equipped for ministry.
Bishop Noel Santino from Cebu shared about the urgency of the Gospel mission in his country. “We have quite a [number] of churches, but not to compare with the number of the lost that we are looking at,” he said. “When we were hearing how the Gospel needs to be preached, declared all over, we just felt that we are just scratching the surface of this need. This is not just a need; it’s a must!”
The opportunities for church planting in the Philippines is huge, but there are also many challenges, including limited resources and remote areas with little to no Gospel witness.
As part of the Kick Off event, pastors participated in a mapping session, revealing that out of 42,000 barangays (the smallest administrative unit in the Philippines), 23,000 have no evangelical church. These areas represent a staggering 30 million people who have little to no access to the Gospel!
But thankfully Noel and other pastors are committed to spreading the Gospel throughout their beloved nation. He reminds us of the power of church planting in fulfilling the Great Commission:
“Church planting connects with the very grain of our hearts’ desire—to reach out, win them, evangelise them, and disciple them. Through church planting, they have a space, they have room to grow and develop.”
As the church in the Philippines rises to this challenge, we invite you to stand with them in prayer. Together, we can be part of this great movement to bring the hope of Jesus to every island and community.
As Bishop Noel so passionately expressed, “Let us hold hands together and make this country and the countries of the world one for Christ.” Thank you for your prayers and support in this mission. May the Lord continue to bless the work being done in the Philippines and beyond!
How You Can Pray for the Philippines
- Pray for the lost – That millions who have yet to hear the true Gospel will encounter Christ and experience His saving grace.
- Pray for pastors and church planters – That they would have strength, wisdom, and perseverance as they labour in the harvest fields.
- Pray for resources – That Bibles, discipleship materials, and training opportunities would be abundant for those answering the call to ministry.
- Pray for the unreached areas – That the Gospel would break through in remote islands and communities where there are few or no churches.
- Pray for a mighty revival – That the Holy Spirit would move powerfully, transforming lives and drawing the Filipino people closer to Jesus.
