An eminent writer by the name of Arnold Glasgow once wrote, "Make your life a mission, not an intermission." This quotation summarizes the spirit that kept the Community Evangelical Church moving for the past year. Our church life revolved around introducing Jesus Christ as Lord, Savior and friend to others. As a result, our lives have been enriched spiritually as we ourselves continued to discover the joy of sharing the good news to others and witnessing the transformation in the lives of many!

For the year that passed, there are vivid lessons we realized. One, God and His mission are our top priority in life. Two, God provides to the church dedicated believers who help not just to meet goals but to share in the church's vision as well. Three, the congregation concretely serves as medium through which God enriches the lives of His children and enables them to meet their own needs as well. This is what the Apostle Paul wrote about when he talked about the establishment of God's kingdom on earth - a statement of mission that we ourselves take to heart as a church.

Our theme for ministry in the coming year is "Chosen by God to be Fruitful." I pray that all our endeavors will promote a closer friendship with God, cultivate a life where the Holy Spirit can work freely, and further the spread of the Gospel. Challenges are forthcoming to us, not only as a church but in the lives of our brothers and sisters in the fellowship. But together, we claim this promise: "That He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6)." Confident of Him, therefore, we look at our third year of ministry with a bright and shining hope.

Rev. Leofin Blanco, Jr.