Storm stories

Earlier we rejoiced that our contacts in the Philippines had survived the terrible Typhoon Sendong that hit southern Philippines last week.

Today, however, we received word about some the situations in the area that was harder hit, and we are deeply saddened to pass those things along.

First, we ask you to pray for Pastor Deo Begafria. he serves in Cagayan de Oro, one of the hardest hit places. He, his wife and their three children survived the storm and floods only by getting to the roof of their church building. The entire contents of the church were washed away, and they had no place to meet on Sunday. Please pray for Shiloh Bible Baptist Church Church Barra, Cagayan de Oro, as they try to build back their church.

Another church was also destroyed in Iligan City. Pastor Ruben Sulapas had his church destroyed. At this time we are not certain of the name of this church, as it does not appear to be a SBBC church. But we do know the pastor's name, and we ask your prayers for his church.

We are certain both pastors have seen their churches suffer great losses, but we know of two members in particular in Iligan City whose families were devastated. Both men are Bible translators, trying to bring the word of God into the native dialect. One man lost his wife and three children; they found the bodies for all of them. The second man had his three children swept away. They are missing and are presumed dead.Since the city is on the coast, many of the missing may never be found, because the water sweeps so many bodies into the Iligan Bay. This man's wife had a nervous breakdown over the disaster.

We are deeply saddened to learn of these situations. As we know more, we will let you know. Clearly, when we hear about two churches being destroyed, our first thought is to try to find a way to help our family there. Please pray with us as we seek God's direction in this tragic and urgent matter.