CYBERFLASHES Keeping Alumni and Friends in Touch

MVC Website: http://www.MVCollege.edu.ph/

MVC Alumni: http://www.MVCollege.org

Editor/Coordinator: Raylene Rodrigo-Baumgart

Historical Yorktown, Virginia

October 4, 2013

Editor’s Notes

It is the third day of a government shutdown with no end in

sight. Government employees, families and private citizens across the country are

feeling nervous with the uncertainty of the situation and the future as obscure as can

be. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other forms of social media are non-stop in

voicing their views if not frustration. But all we can really do is pray that the outcome

be favorable for all.

The last two months have been emotionally challenging for me beyond my expectations. Two recent deaths of very special friends have brought me moments of despair. Then my youngest child left for college, making me and Helmut empty-nesters for the first time. I never dreamt I would become insomniac. I re-assured myself that this was just a delayed jetlag symptom after being away in the Philippines for 5 weeks. But when days became a week and then weeks into a month, I had to do something about it.

I kept myself busy by repotting my orchids, doing my own landscaping after working hours and memory-scrapbooking to the point of exhaustion. I told myself this would be the best panacea for great night’s rest. I was wrong! I found myself too sleepy during broad daylight that I was afraid to drive. Then one afternoon, while driving from work to home and feeling groggy, I turned on the radio and the song “Great Is Thy faithfulness” blasted loud and clear, jolting me from drowsiness. And for the very first time, I listened to every word and every line and I was inspired. This is my new favorite hymn now.

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;

There is no shadow of turning with Thee, Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not,

As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.

Refrain: Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!

Morning by morning new mercies I see All I have needed Thy hand hath provided

Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above;

Join with all nature in manifold witness, To Thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love.

(Refrain)

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own great presence to cheer and to guide;

Strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside.

(Refrain)

STORY BEHIND THE POEM

This hymn was written by Thomas Obediah Chisholm.

He was born in a log cabin in Franklin, Kentucky on July 29, 1866 to very poor parents. He was

educated in a small schoolhouse where he was later appointed as head teacher at the age of 16. He

became a Christian at the age of 27 and entered the ministry at the age of 36. But he had such a

difficult adult life. His health was so fragile that there were periods of time when he was confined

to bed, unable to work that he had to leave the ministry. Between bouts of illness, he would have

to push himself to put in extra hours at various jobs to make ends meet. He spent most of his life

working as a Life Insurance Agent. In his adversity, he found great comfort in the Scriptures

and in the fact that God was faithful to be his strength in tile of illness and to provide his needs.

Lamentations 3:22-23 was one of his favorite bible verses, “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we

are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness.”

A humble man, he sometimes described himself as “just an old shoe” but he blessed the Christian

community with his writing – over 1200 poems and 800 of which were published and many set

to music. He said that the poem and song Great Is Thy faithfulness was a testament to God’s

faithfulness throughout his very ordinary life. In his own words he said, “My income has not

been large at any time due to impaired health in the earlier years which has followed me on until

now. Although I must not fail to record here the unfailing faithfulness of a covenant-keeping God

and that He has given me many wonderful displays of His providing care for which I am filled

with astonishing gratefulness”

This hymn has a very special message for all of us. God remains faithful day in and day out in

the largest and smallest of circumstances..We do not need to be rescued from life-threatening

danger or see God’s miraculous provision in the direst of financial crisis to truly know the

faithfulness of the Lord.

Just think, with each new day, God gives us the chance to prove His faithfulness. And throughout history, He’s never once been proven wrong, for His mercies are new every morning, no matter what!

http://gaither.com/news/%E2%80%9Cgreat-thy-faithfulness%E2%80%9D-story-behind-hymn http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Chisholm_(song_writer)

Hilltop News

ABS-CBN CDO TO FEATURE MVC

The crew of MagTV Na Ato Ni, a local telemagazine program of ABS-

CBN Northern Mindanao/Cagayan de Oro City, visited MVC on September 27.

This show delivers stories about the region including features on food, travel, business, people, fashion, events, technology, industries and a whole

lot more.

The purpose of their visit was to: (1) film MVC’s important landmarks

such as the Malingon Falls, Twin Falls, Jubilee Park, Food Factory, and

Alumni Church, (2) interview/feature some students (local and foreign), and

(3) learn about the Adventist lifestyle.

The eight students who were interviewed were: Lizven Alged Galleto (originally from Cebu but now calls Thailand home); Angelle Baluran

(Bukidnon); Joseph Cabañas (U. S.); Samuel Sihotang (Indonesia); Eddie

Estrada (Mexico); Yesaya Muluk (Indonesia); Khin, Khin Oo (Myanmar); and

Faith Awuor Oluoch (Kenya). The questions asked ranged from the aspects of Philippine culture they like, the courtship patterns in their home countries,

their impressions of MVC, etc. Dr. Veneracion Cabana introduced them to

the Adventist lifestyle. What the crew members gathered while they were

here will be televised for three consecutiveSunday mornings starting October

6.

The crew members were Bryan Yu – Host, Chuck Fuentes – Scriptwriter/ Coordinator, Philip Radaza – Technicals, Simon Cabugao –

Cameraman, and Antonia Supieza – Researcher.

~by Donna Pearl Rubino

MVCA JOINS CVBAPSAA GAMES

Forty MVCA student athletes participated in three events during the CVBAPSAA (City of Valencia Bukidnon Association of Private Schools

Athletics) Games played September 10-12.

The CVBAPSAA is an organization of all privately-run primary and

secondary schools in the city. This year, the games were played at the

Infant Jesus School of Bukidnon, Philippine College Foundation, Taipan Hotel

and Restaurant, and Sportstown Valencia.

The friendly matches aimed to create camaraderie among the schools and provide an avenue for athletes to excel in their respective sports. The

activities included all dual and team sports, athletic sports, and mind games.

The MVCA students participate in swimming, basketball (boys and

girls), and soccer (boys). MVCA won third place in the Basketball Girls

Category. Maffy Dait and Omega Love Pueblo played well so they were

selected as members of the Women’s Basketball for the City Meet.

The students were accompanied by Mr. Nathaniel Canarecio, Mr.

Dwight Kenji Madriaga, Mr. Rochel Clyde Fernando, Mr. Bart Poce Brondo,

Mr. Roland Selidio, Mrs. Sandra Canarecio, Mrs. Lorna Paulican, Mrs. Gina

Lucagbo, Ms. Liel Gem Villaver, and Ms. Sharry Amor Abduhraman.

~Donna Pearl Rubino

MVC NOMINATED FOR WELL-MAINTAINED TOURIST SPOT CONTEST

The Valencia City Tourism Office, under the chairmanship of Mrs. Amie

Galario, nominated MVC to represent the city in the search for the WELL-

MAINTAINED TOURIST SPOT in Bukidnon contest. Now on its sixth year and

held every September, MVC and Malingon Falls will vie for the Best Man-

Made Park and Best Fresh Water categories.

Provincial and City tourism inspection personnel came to the campus

on September 23. The team was composed of 22 members headed by Ms.

Leonor Mandawe, Valencia City Tourism officer. Accompanied by Mr. Gil

Micua, MVC Public Relations Director, they saw the Jubilee Park, Prayer

Garden, the Malingon and Twin Falls, and other MVC landmarks. The team

ate dinner at the college cafeteria.

According to the Bukidnon Provincial Tourism officer, Ms. Joan Benoya,

the criteria for the evaluation include: absence of litter and graffiti;

preservation of the natural flora and fauna; presence of special features;

absence of odor, traces of oil, and other conditions that may cause damage to ecology; accessibility (road condition); adequate support

facilities/amenities; peace and order condition; presence of

marketing/promotional materials; and presence of other tourism attractions

in the area.

“MVC’s future plans,” Mr. Micua said, “is to reposition MVC to be a

more tourist-friendly campus. This includes infrastructure development such as road cementing; providing visitors transportation from the city bus

terminal to the campus; and creating more tourist sites and accommodation

areas.”

~by Sweet Kenny Dawn Locop

MS GOES CAMPING

Smell the campfire, pump the water, walk the trails, eat a tin-foil

wrapped dinner, and stay warm or find ways to cool off.

These were some of the activities enjoyed by the Ministerial Seminar

members and sponsors who went camping by Route, September 27-29.

They came and pitched their tents, rolled out their sleeping bags,

and sang songs while meeting old friends and making new ones among the

youth from the different churches.

The camping had the theme “Lord, My Leader, I Will Follow You” and the

theme song “Come on and Lead Me Lord.”

The camping was a spiritual renewal gathering. It aimed to assist in

the social, spiritual, and physical development of the young people. It also

encouraged friendships among the teens from the different churches. The

three-day Camporee was coordinated by the Ministerial Seminar officers

and staff.

The churches comprising the different routes are:

Route 1- KAULAYANAN, MALINGON, UPPER SAN CARLOS, BEACON,

POLINAR VILLAGE, WEST VALENCIA, LUMBO, AND SUGAR LAND

Route 2- CMU-KIBALAGON, CMU-CAMPUS, CMU-PACANGAN,

DOLOGON, SUNNY DALE, KISANDAY, KIHARONG, MIGAPANANG,

PANALSALAN, LAKE APO, AND GUINOYORAN

Route 3- LOWER VALENCIA, BATANGAN, ARFI, LOPEZ, SINAYAWAN,

MAIN-KANAL, UPPER MABUHAY, DAGAT KIDAVAW, CABAYUGAN, BUYOG,

PALUHAN, KATUMBALON, BANLAG LOWER MABUHAY AND TUNGAN-

TUNGAN

Route 4- SUGOD, NEW MILLENIUM, MAILAG-PROPER, COLONIA,

BANGCUD, CABANGAHAN, AGLAYAN, LINABO, LALAWAN, NATARING, AND

MANAGOK

ROUTE 5- STO.NIÑO, NABAG-O, SAN ISIDRO, APO MACOTE,

DAPULAN, SAN MARTIN, DUMAYAS AND SIMAYA

ROUTE 6- BODEGA, UPPER LURUGAN, AND KILANGI

ROUTE 7- MT.CARMEL, BAGAWBAWAN, MT.NEBO, MIGTULOD, AND

HILLSIDE

ROUTE 8- BUGAHON, MT. PISGAH AND CENTER LILINGAYON

ROUTE 9- PUERTA, LANTAPAN, BANTOANON, BALILA, ALANIB,

BINALIKAN, CAWAYAN, KINATI AND SUNGCO

During the opening ceremony, every camper, staff, and sponsor

recited theYoke of Obedience which is the promise to obey the camp director’s command. It’s similar to Jesus’s taking the yoke of obedience

during His earthly ministry. He was obedient to the Father and to the

Father’s will. It means that when one is under the oath of obedience, he is

not free to do what we wish. He is to set aside his preferences and tastes, desires, and even those things that resist hi, and to consider just one thing –

God’s will.

The Yoke of Obedience part was followed by the oath taking,

declaration, and lighting of the campfire and torches.

The director also read the Whistle Blast Code, Camp Code, and Camp

Rules.

The Camp Code said: (1) I will camp only where camping is allowed.;

(2) I will keep my campsite clean at all times and leave the camp site

cleaner than I found it. (3) I will never leave my campfire unattended and when I leave, I will make sure it is entirely out. (4) I will never use my knife

or ax to cut or scar live trees. (5) I will never pick wild flowers or cut trail

while hiking. (6) I will never pollute a lake or stream and will respect all

signs, rules, and private property. (7)I will always be polite and courteous. (8) I will always conduct myself as an Adventist youth. (8) I will always

leave the campsite knowing the welcome of my return.

Every camper had to follow the Camp Rules: (1) All campers shall

register at the campsite upon

arrival. (2) In going out form the camp a camper should secure a gate pass

from the headquarters and report upon coming in. (3) No one shall loiter

around between TAPS and Reveille. (4) Staying inside an opposite sex’s tent during night time is prohibited. (5) No defecating anywhere. (6) All camp

Staff shall be addressed as Sir/Ma'am.

One of the major components of the Camporee was the serenading

program. Early Saturday morning, the campers and staff sang and offered

prayers to the communities near their campgrounds.

Ms. Loury Ann Abuyme, one of the staff, said “Service to others is the commission that Christ gave us and showed in many of the parables that

He shared”.

Dr. Apolinar Paulican, sponsor for the Kaulayanan Camping,

commented: “It is not easy to handle and monitor a large number of

students. 1 Peter 5: 8 says ‘Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the

devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

~by Darlene Jean Caliso

HRM CLASS CONDUCTS SEMINAR

The Human Resource Management students of the School of Business and Accountancy conducted a Self-Management and Team-Building Seminar,

September 29. The program, which was held at the CSC Building, started

at 4:00 in the afternoon. Most of the participants were the third and fourth

year BSBA students from both the Financial Management and Human Resource Management majors, although it was also opened to all who were

interested.

Earlier this semester, a skills gap analysis, a very crucial step in

organizing and planning the training and development function of human

resource departments, was conducted by the organizers. They examined the

mission and vision of the BSBA Department of the School of Business and Accountancy which emphasize producing competent entrepreneurs and

managers in the future. Determined questionnaires, aimed to measure

managerial and entrepreneurial skills, were floated out to the junior and

senior students to determine on what skills they needed help the most. The

results led to the choosing of the topics for the seminar.

Adeline Calaguian lectured on Self-Management. Prior to her coming to

Mountain View College to pursue a degree in Human Resource Development

Management, Adeline worked for various companies and organizations in

Canada such as The Body Shop, Best Buy Canada and United Lodge, a

senior residence health care facility. Talking on Team-Building was Kane Somoso. Kane is a senior student pursuing two degrees: Financial

Management and Human Resource Development Management. He had also

experienced working for some companies in the United States including

Victoria’s Secret and Red Thai Chili.

The seminar was a requirement of the

course Training and Development under Asst. Prof. Ronnel Aldin Fernando. Apart from the speakers, other members of the class who helped organize

the program under their respective committees were the following:

Registration Committee -- Chariemay Balaba, Vergie Jorquia and Marian

Lasco; Venue Set-up -- Arnie Batuhan, Reiner Librado, and Jovel Rey Vacalares; Audio-Visual Set-up -- Rodrigo Cuarto and Gerald Gonzales; Food

Committee -- Catherine Almocera, Ezel Consigna and Kimberly Sofocado;

and Advertising -- Katheleen Simbolon.

The class extends its gratitude to the attendees and to Mr. Leodegario

Elona for his fast catering service even when given such short notice.

~by Ronnel Aldin Fernando/Japhet Ramos

Interview of an MVC Pioneer – Part 1

It was quite by chance that I first met John Odom two weeks ago while he

attended the 50th anniversary of one of the classes he taught over 50 years ago at Pacific Union College Prep. As we visited, we discovered that both of

us had strong ties to Mountain View College.

John Odom was 10 years old when he went with his parents in 1947 to Manila where his father taught at Philippine Union College. John was

obviously a bright and adventurous young man and because of this Dr.

Andrew Nelson tapped him to participate in the very early development of

the college. He was 14 year old at the time. In a series of short interviews John will share with us his recollections of his time at MVC and also of his

experiences in the Philippines. This first segment tells of his experience

being asked by Dr. Andrew Nelson to help survey the new campus. Be sure

to check back next week for another segment.

~Submitted by Don Christensen

Link to use on the page:

http://www.easywebvideo.com/video.php?v=1f2f397a

A Short Devotional

Why Good People Don’t Go to Heaven

Let me share with you this story related by Steven J. Cole, Baptist

pastor of the Flagstaff Christian Fellowship in Arizona.

Some years ago in a church in England, the pastor noticed that a former burglar was kneeling for

the Lord’s Supper beside a judge of the Supreme Court of England, the very judge who, years

before, had sentenced the burglar to seven years in prison. After his release the burglar had been

converted to Christ and had become a Christian worker. After the service, as the judge and the

pastor walked home together, the judge asked, “Did you see who was kneeling beside me for

communion?” “Yes,” replied the pastor, “but I didn’t know that you noticed.” The two men

walked on in silence for a few moments, and then the judge said, “What a miracle of grace!” The

pastor nodded in agreement, “Yes, what a marvelous miracle of grace!” Then the judge said,

“But to whom do you refer?” The pastor replied, “Why to the conversion of that convict.” The

judge said, “But I was not referring to him. I was thinking of myself.” “What do you mean?” the

pastor asked.

The judge replied, “That burglar knew how much he needed Christ to save him from his sins.

But look at me. I was taught from childhood to live as a gentleman, to keep my word, to say my

prayers, to go to church. I went through Oxford, took my degrees, was called to the bar and

eventually became a judge. Pastor, nothing but the grace of God could have caused me to admit

that I was sinner on a level with that burglar. It took much more grace to forgive me for all my

pride and self-righteousness, to get me to admit that I was not better in the eyes of God than that

convict whom I had sent to prison.”

Jesus taught that good people don’t go to heaven because their pride keeps them from admitting

their need of a Savior (Matt. (:12, 13).The only ones who go to heaven are those who see their

sinfulness before a holy God and cry out to Him for mercy.

~Submitted by Lemuel Niere

God’s Providence

Text: Psalms 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

My husband, Boie, is a nature lover and photographer. As a result, I became

one too. We took a week break from work and decided to visit the famous Utah’s

national parks. In preparation for our trip, we removed the chairs from our van

and replaced them with a folding mattress. The plan was, wherever nightfall

comes, we would stop and sleep in the van. We also took our 2 small dogs, Wanky

and Milo. On September 1, 2013, we started our adventure.

We arrived in Arches National Park at 10 pm on September 2. It was pitch dark

and I was afraid. But when I looked up, I saw millions of stars usually bigger,

brighter and closer to us. I felt God’s presence and I was no longer afraid. We

stayed there that night. By morning, September 3, we woke up to see the

awesome rock formations. I couldn’t help myself singing “How Great Thou Art”

while Boie hummed along with me with a twinkle in his eyes. He was glad I was

happy. We had so much fun taking pictures and hiking to reach some “arches”

not amenable to cars. The day went by fast and it was night time before we

realized it. We were tired but relaxed. We parked our van at the same spot and

enjoyed a good night’s rest.

On September 4, we were ready for another adventure. We want to see the

Bryce National Park. We stopped by the visitor’s center in Moab to get

suggestions on the best route to Bryce. We were told, there were 2 ways to go

there, “the shorter way and the longer way.” The “longer way” was scenic and we

were told to take that route. That reminded us of our friend’s comment before

we left Keene, “if you take the scenic route, you will be driving 1 mile per hour. You

know why, you drive a mile and you take an hour to take pictures…” With that in

mind, we took the scenic route.

From Moab, we took I-70 and it became more scenic yet remote when we

entered Hwy 24. From the exit, we found ourselves driving long stretches with no

other vehicle on the road except ours. It was a beautiful morning and we enjoyed

the scenery. At a distance, we saw a rock formation that looked like a mansion so

we decided we would stop near that place. And we did. We saw some foot prints

on the sand dunes and we knew some people were there before us.

We took pictures, lots of them. I posed several times with the sun flowers. Boie

was still taking more pictures when I decided to go back to the car. I noticed the

car engine was running to keep the air conditioner on, as our dogs were inside.

Then I noticed that the doors were locked. I checked my pockets for my spare key

but it wasn’t there. Then I remembered, I locked the car by habit without checking

if I had the spare key. I felt so stupid. I asked myself so many times why, why,

why,??? I was mad at myself while Boie seemed to be unusually calm. We

checked every window and tried to see if we could slide one of them but they were

tightly shut. “How about breaking one of the windows; that’s better than being

stranded in the middle of nowhere,” Boie suggested. We looked for a big stone to

do it but there was none, not even a small one. It was all sand. I went to the back

of the van to get a bottle of water from the cooler (tied to the carrier). That’s

when I saw an RV coming. I told Boie that we should try to get help from them but

he said “No, there is a better way. We should pray first.” As we were about to

pray, the RV passed by and I said to myself, “there goes our help.” I closed my eyes

as we held hands together while he said this simple prayer, “Dear God, I don’t

have to tell you our problem, you know the situation we are in, please give us the

solution. Thank you for answering our prayers, amen.” After the prayer, I walked

around the van twice, seemingly trying to see what solution God has provided, but

found none. I stood on the side of the van facing the road. Ten minutes had

elapsed since the RV passed by and no other vehicle was in sight. I moved in front

of the van and that’s when I saw a big black pick-up coming from the opposite

direction. I got excited and stood up much closer to the road and waved my hand

several times. But the pick-up did not stop. It kept going and going. Boie said,

“that’s not the one God provides.” I was disappointed so I sat on the carrier at the

back of the van and bowed my head. Then, for some reason, I looked up and in

about half a mile away, I saw the truck turn around. Boie saw the truck too. We

took a big, deep breath and waited. The truck stopped in front of our van and a

young, shirtless, Caucasian guy stepped out. His name is Dave. He explained why

he didn’t stop earlier because he thought I was just being friendly when I was

waving my hand. As he was driving away, he looked back through his side mirror

and saw me sitting at the back and knew something was wrong so he came back.

But we knew better, God tugged his heart so he would have compassion on us. He

asked if we have tools and we said yes but they’re all in the van. He smiled, went

to the back of his truck and produced a wrench and a screwdriver. He then

proceeded to the opposite side of the road so Boie followed him there. He was

heading to the barbed-wired fence.

As they both came close to it, they saw an already cut wire hanging on one side.

All Dave did was cut the other end and removed the barbed wire. It was long and

strong enough for him to slide from the top of our driver’s door after he created a

small opening with the screwdriver. I was on the passenger window side praying

as he blindly poked the lock control to unlock the car with the wire. He missed it

the first time but on his second try, it happened. We were rejoicing. I asked

permission to hug him and I told him he was our angel. We exchanged

pleasantries and he asked where we came from. We told him that we came from

Texas but originally, we were from the Philippines. The surprise came when he

said his wife was a Filipina from Cebu. Besides, he is also a nurse working in ICU.

Of course, Boie had to tell him, he grew up in Cebu and is also an ICU nurse. Was it

coincidence or providence?

I firmly believe that every situation that comes our way is no coincidence. In the

twist and turns of life, God orchestrated a way that our paths would cross

providing a way for us to become acquainted and hopefully become friends. But

above all, I know that God is faithful to answer our prayers. He is “our refuge and

strength and ever-present help in trouble.”

~Submitted by Meriam Cadiz-Fabriga

God’s Umbrella

When I was in the Elementary grade, I learned to sing, “The Royal

Telephone”. Its first stanza still remains with me to this day.

Central’s never “busy,” always on the line;

You may hear from heaven almost any time;

’Tis a royal service, free for one and all;

When you get in trouble, give this royal line a call.

I was one of the chosen few who were requested to help survey resorts where we could

spend our church’s retreat that Sunday morning. However, I noticed that my laundry

basket was overflowing. I knew that the coming days will be even busier so I decided to

get up very early and hurriedly put my clothes inside the coin-operated washing

machine.

As I was taking them out, an hour later, I saw that the sky was not as happy as I wanted

it to be during laundry day. I silently prayed, "Lord, please keep the rain from falling till I

take these clothes off the line."

Our destination was three to four hours away from Bangkok. During mid-day, just when

I thought that my laundry would be dry, rain fell. With resignation, I silently prayed, "It's

ok if my clothes will become wet again, Lord. I am sure “the sun will come out

tomorrow'."

When all transactions were done, we immediately headed home. I thought our trip

would end before the sun sets but unfortunately we were caught in the heavy traffic

caused by the unceasing rain.

As we were nearing home, however, I noticed that the streets were dry. I smiled

inwardly, but upon looking up, I noticed that the clouds were about to open up. I was

anxious to reach home.

Just before we turned into our street, a friend called me to have dinner with her and her

family because they had thanksgiving celebration. I couldn’t refuse because I had no

time to cook and I was very tired.

I cannot recall now what we had for dinner because all I had in my mind was my

laundry. My friend walked me home and she talked and talked. I wanted to hurry, but

another friend joined us. Before long, I forgot about my worries as we laughed and

laughed along the way.

At 9:30 p.m., I was home at last. I hurriedly went up the flight of stairs from the first floor

on to the fifth floor in order to collect my clothes. When I reached the top floor, I

breathed a thankful prayer because despite the not-so-promising morning sky, all my

clothes were dry. I took them off the lines in my usual "slow but sure" fashion: taking the

clothes off the hangers one by one and folding them nicely inside my hamper. Halfway

through the process, big drops of rain fell. I pushed the movable clothesline under the

very limited shaded area then hurriedly took the hangers off the line and at the same

time, uttering a "Thank You" prayer to God for keeping the rain from falling long enough

for me to be there and rescue my laundry from getting wet again.

God is such a faithful Friend and a wonderful Lord and Savior. He has been answering

my prayers, big and small, even to my simplest request as keeping my laundry dry till I

had a chance to remove them from the lines.

I just can't thank Him enough and so I am writing about this so that you, too, will

continue to trust Him more with your BIG problems as well as the small ones. Call on

Him now, my friend. He will surely answer your prayers, too.

Once again, my sweet-smelling clothes are testimonies of God’s unfailing goodness and

my reminders of another answered prayer.

~Submitted by Lily Loida Lare

Announcements

November 13-16, 2013. MVC Alumni Association Western USA Reunion. Venue: 1000 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo, California 94589. Lodging: Marriot Courtyard Vallejo. (707) 644-1200. Mention MVCAA-WUSA to avail of the group discount.Our group code is “MVCMVCB” at http://www.marriott.com/default.mi

Plan to attend! Don’t miss the fun! Meet old friends and make new ones! Get revived spiritually. For more info, message (FB) “Eng Sabilot Sejarp” or Alger Prajes.

Souvenir Sponsorship:

$350 Inside Front Cover Full page

$300 inside back cover full page

$200 business full page

$120 business Half Page

$100 personal full page

$60 personal half page

Payable to: MVCAA-WUSA on or before October 1, 2013 and mail your tax

Deductible check to:

Gideon Ondap

36875 Albatross St.

Beaumont CA 92223

Email your design or pictures to: prajes88@yahoo.com or Mail your CD to Alger Prajes,

16696 Baywood Lane, Fontana

CA 92336. He can be reached at 626-646-3180 for more details about the souvenir.

For more Inquiries, Information and Suggestions, Please don't hesitate to call us

Aldine Salarda-Secretary (661) 332-7700

Rollie Donato- PIO (951-347-3258

Gideon Ondap- Treasurer (760) 333-8315

Looking forward for your presence. See you there!

~Submitted by: Rollie Boy Donato,

““OOnnee GGoodd –– OOnnee GGooaall –– OOnnee GGlloorryy””

OOccttoobbeerr 2255--2266,, 22001133

FFeeaattuurreedd SSppeeaakkeerr:: LLeeoonnaarrddoo RR.. AAssooyy

PPrreessiiddeenntt,, SSoouutthh PPhhiilliippppiinnee UUnniioonn CCoonnffeerreennccee

SSaannttaa YYnneezz VVaalllleeyy MMaarrrriiootttt HHootteell 555555 MMccMMuurrrraayy

RRooaadd,, BBuueellllttoonn CCiittyy CCAA 9933442277

FFoorr rroooomm bbooookkiinngg,, ccaallll ((880000)) 663388--88888822 oorr ((880055)) 332255--22000000

oorr mmoorree ddeettaaiillss,, pplleeaassee ccaallll::

((995511)) 445522--22663311 ((EEllbbeerrtt MMoorraallddee)) oorr ((990099)) 336633--55995588 ((TTiittoo NNoovvaall))

oorr vviissiitt oouurr wweebbssiittee:: mmmmaauussaa..wwsscc44..ccoomm

DDiissccoovveerr tthhee VVaalllleeyy ……jjooiinn

MMMMAA AAlluummnnii && FFrriieennddss,, UUSSAA -- RReeuunniioonn 22001133

Poem for the week

Go not to the temple to put flowers upon the feet of God, First fill your own house with the fragrance of love. Go not to the temple to light lamps before the altar of God, First remove the darkness of sin from your heart. Go not to the temple to bow down your head in prayer, First learn to bow humbly before your fellowmen. Go not to the temple to pray on bended knees First bend down to lift someone who is down. Go not to the temple to ask for forgiveness for your sins, First forgive from your heart those who have sinned against you. (Rabindranath Tagore) ~Submitted by Leilani Estorco Macaya

A Diary on His Faithfulness

here was a time long ago when September 11 meant security was heighted at my

workplace. Barricades were set up outside the perimeter and guards were actually in

place to check who was coming into the property. Delays getting into the parking lot

was expected and all had to enter through the front entrance of the hospital where uniformed

personnel stood guard. But that has changed. In the recent years we were taught that terrorists

only succeed when we allow ourselves to fear. We were taught to acknowledge the evil that is

there, yes; but never cower to fear.

It was around 1AM Thursday three weeks ago on September 11, 2013. I was online chatting

with DXCR station manager Pastor Jun Rivera and 3 of the current station staff members. I was

explaining to them the need for a prayer hotline wherein alumni from anywhere in the world

could call in for free, anonymously if needed, and requests to pray with someone who in turn

would also keep their prayer request confidential. I was explaining how people would not want

their personal problems posted at the Shout Site along with others’ Sabbath greetings.

We were chatting when fellow MVCian, Naomi Ancero Batak, principal of Caldwell Adventist

Academy in Zamboanga City posted the question, “isn’t Sept 11 the anniversary when your

twin towers got hit?” I chuckled to myself wanting to respond that I did not own the twin

towers. Instead I responded, “What’s happening in your world, ‘Dai Naomi?” She responded:

“There’s a war going on here” and proceeded to tell us about what is now called the Zamboanga

conflict.

Incredulous, I listened to her report but did not get to respond because around that time, one of

my aunts contacted me to inform me that my Uncle Bebot had been taken hostage in Zamboanga

by the MNLF. This certainly brought the Zamboanga crisis much closer to home

T

The MNLF? Who are they? What do they want? What would they want with a mild mannered,

soft spoken physician? I raced to gather as much information as I could. I told the DXCR crew

what I had just learned and asked how can we get prayer groups to pray for Uncle when, for

security reasons, I can’t even share what he’s name is! Pastor Rivera suggested that we simply

call him “Joy’s Uncle” and God would know whom we are referring to.

By 4:00AM California time, as I was notifying family members and asking them to get their

respective prayer groups involved, the program “777 Prayer” goes on air. It is 7:00PM in the

Philippines and I heard Pastor Rivera read the prayer requests then pray. He prayed for healing

for someone, and salvation for another, then he prayed for “Ma’am Joy’s uncle who is currently

held hostage at Zamboanga.” He quickly moved on to pray for the situation in Zamboanga and

asked for divine intervention for that area of the world. I did not realize I was holding my breath

until after the prayer. But oh what a huge relief I felt to have someone to pray with … and I knew

there were a lot of people out there who prayed with us. I was also pleased that uncle was prayed

for without having to share his name or any further information.

I continued to contact family members, activating our family’s cascade call system. Those who

were called would in turn notify the other family members and their respective prayer warrior

groups. I glanced up from my notes startled that my husband was bringing me a plate of fresh

mangoes. “I don’t think we’re getting any sleep tonight and we have to be at work at 7AM. We

might as well eat breakfast now,” he explained.

On arrival at work, I was immediately informed that the US Government had issued a travel

advisory against traveling to Mindanao and I received a report of the Zamboanga crisis. “Don’t

worry,” I assured my American coworker who had been stationed in Southeast Asia once while

in the military. “I have no plans to travel abroad at this time.” And I briefly told him about my

uncle.

Perhaps trying to comfort me, he told me not to worry. The rebels would treat Uncle well

because he is a doctor and can patch up their wounded if needed. I smiled and said nothing.

Knowing my family, I was sure Uncle would do everything he could to stay below the radar, not

attract any attention to himself, and would try to escape at the first chance he gets.

By 9:00 hours, I briefed my mom’s sisters about the situation and we talked battle strategy.

That night when I got home from work I went straight to my desk. 97 new emails and a few text

messages needed to be responded to, as the deadline for Cyberflashes issue seemed to taunt at me.

On one hand I had a family crisis I had to attend to; on the other hand there was Cyberflashes to

do. Would tonight be another sleepless night for us? I did not know however I sent this text to

the family as DXCR continued to pray non-stop in the background. “Psalm 34:7. Find out what

that means. Pass it on.”

randma’s dad, Juan Taghap, had 9 siblings but only he and his younger brother Felix

were Adventists. The older siblings were catholic and the younger ones selected other

faiths. For six generations now my mom’s side of the family has remained close knit,

getting together for annual family reunions to ensure that friendships are renewed often between

individuals across the 9 clans. My clan, known as “The Adventists”, is historically known for

our joyful Sabbath keeping, our abhorrence for certain unclean foods, our penchant for family

worship. Our clan is also known for having a close personal relationship with Jesus. And during

the hostage crisis, our clan was being looked upon to lead the whole family in prayer. How do

you lead a prayer group that is generously scattered all across the globe? How do you keep people

from getting anxious? The wait will take some toll, I was sure, and we needed to be calm. But

settle for merely being calm? That would be so – mediocre! Why not aim for something far

better? How about being blessed and inspired? Why not asked that for the whole family?

Once more I contacted the key people in the family who would be responsible for passing on

information:

1. We acknowledge the gravity of hostage situation but we will not cover to fear.

2. We will believe and keep our faith strong.

3. We will listen to DXCR online continuously so that we will be blessed, not anxious.

4. We will thank God for what He is about to do for our family.

I relayed the same information to our prayer groups.

Thursday. No news at all.

2:00AM Friday I am chatting with Ian Ba-al, one student crew members at DXCR, about how

Paul and Silas did not ask for a prayer marathon for their delivery when they were imprisoned.

Instead, they lifted up their voices in praise and thanksgiving all throughout the night until an

earthquake came, broke their chains, and opened the prison doors. Not only were Paul and Silas

G

now free, but so were everyone who were in prison with them! Ian and I reflect what this could

mean to us today. Does that mean that if we praise and thank God with all our hearts that people

around us could be liberated as well? Not only us but our loved ones around us too? My

husband who is working on his laptop beside me quips, “Of course! There are other types of

prisons, you know. Financial problems. Health issues. Relationship difficulties.”

As Ian and I are chatting and Andy is nearby contributing with comments now and then, we

hear “silang Ma’am Joy” being greeted on air. The DJ (Joezer? James?) plays Someone Is

Praying For You” by the Heritage Singers followed by “My God Is Real” by John Starnes. As

the chords of the song fade away, my phone goes crazy. My family members had recognized the

coded message in the greeting. They understood DXCR was greeting the family as a whole and

that off the air people were praying for the hostage situation at Zamboanga. “They’re praying

right now at the radio station!” a cousin texted. “Did you hear that?” texted another. I

messaged everyone back: “We’re not alone in this. All of God’s children are praying. Be strong.”

For many in my family, this was the first time they heard either song. For many, their hearts

were touched by the powerful lyrics – of the song that some of us memorize by rote and perhaps

may have taken for granted. For many, our resolve to stand strong in faith was strengthened.

“My God Is Real” became our family’s battle cry. And my last text before going to bed was,

“My God Is Real. Ps 91:11. John 3:16.” I went to bed pleased and assured. Instead of fretting or

getting anxious about our crisis, my family was listening to DXCR receiving hope,

encouragement, and reminders of our Risen and All-Powerful God while our faith was being

strengthened. We may be scattered across the face of the earth but together we humbly met at the

Throne of Grace. We may be facing a fearful battle but we have a Balm of Gilead in the midst of

our storm. With those thoughts I went to sleep peacefully. I can sleep well in stormy nights

because I know in WHOM I believe.

But the enemy of souls was not finished harassing us yet. As I was dozing off, my phone beeped.

Peering into the screen I saw that it was past 3:00AM and I saw a message that I was not

expecting to see. I was being informed that my Lolo Noel, Uncle Bebot’s dad, had died. Lolo Noel

had been ill for a few years and had just recently recovered from pneumonia. Afraid of how he

might take the news, we had not informed him that Uncle Bebot had been taken hostage. And

now, as we were dealing with the hostage situation, our oldest member of the family had died.

Curling into a tight ball, I wept and cried to the Lord. “Just hold us together, Father. Hold us.

Please send your Holy Spirit to comfort us and give us clarity of thought.”

Numb and exhausted, I was not able to say anything more and I tried to ignore my phone as it

buzzed again and again. Peering into its screen once more I see a message from the DXCR crew.

It simply read, “Be encouraged. God is in control.” Stunned at the swift answer to my

mumbled cry I mused. How could DXCR know when I did not tell them about Lolo Noel? I can

only imagine my Savior lifting an eyebrow in amusement and saying, “Kid, you still don’t know

Me, do you?” And in gratitude, I knelt in prayer thanking God that His promises are true and

sure. He will never leave us or forsake us.

y Friday night news of Lolo Noel’s passing had spread but with the hostage crisis

continued to stay forefront in everyone’s mind. Lolo Noel’s brother, a congressman in the

Philippines, was working hard to get help for the hostages. An aunt, currently the consul

at the Philippine Embassy in Washington DC, was working the get similar results. Prayer

warriors around the world prayed. And my clan prayed prayers of praise and thankfulness for

the miracles that we were sure were on its way.

Seeking to test our faith, the spirit of FEAR kept being hurled at us. We received reports from

the Philippine media that Uncle was wounded. Some reports say that he had escaped. Some

worried that something would go wrong in the work to free the hostages. Then one of Uncle

Bebot’s superiors (accidentally?) leaked that a high ranking officer of the Department of Health is

among the hostages. I rested my head on my desk. I have a Cyberflashes deadline to meet and this

family crisis. What can I do effectively to help?

“Joy, keep everyone calm & focused. No FEAR” suggested my husband himself a combat veteran

who had during the Persian Gulf crisis.

So I once more sent DXCR’s live stream address to the whole family, encouraging all to listen. I

also sent texts every few hours. My messages read: “My God Is Real” claiming our battle cry,

“Psalm, 34:7”, and sometimes the message was simply, “FAITH. BELIEVE. LIVE”

Sabbath morning at 3:00 I am awakened with news that Uncle had escaped his captors. By

midmorning my cousin, another physician, reports that she is with Uncle Bebot where he is

B

being seen by a medical team and will be debriefed. Uncle Bebot calls my two aunts to confirm

that he is fine and will be home soon. Once again, my phone goes crazy and news of Uncle’s

escape to freedom is passed on to others. In our family blog, the song “My God Is Real” by John

Starnes is played over and over again.

My God is real and great is His faithfulness.

Today, my family all over the world continues to listen to DXCR. For many, they are hearing

our music for the very first time and it touches a chord in their hearts. For many, they are

hearing new bible truths. For many, the light and hope brought into our lives and homes are

blessings we cannot take for granted. And for many, we are falling in love with our Savior all

over again because He is a good God, and great is His faithfulness.

~Joy Caballero-Gadia

Quotes for the week

“When circumstances seem impossible, when all signs of grace in you seem at their lowest ebb, when temptation is fiercest, when love and joy and hope seem well-nigh extinguished in your heart, then rest, without feeling and

without emotion, in the Father's faithfulness.” ~D. Tryon

"God does not come to us in nicely defined, rationally explained, thought

categories. God does not fit Himself into our theological text books. The Hebrew God

breaks all the rules. He is near, yet transcendent; clothed in human form, yet holy; more

terrifying than can be imagined, yet compassionate; invisible, yet revealed; judging, yet

merciful; sovereign, yet humble. No matter where you look, God breaks the

molds." ~Skip Moen

"If you took the love of all the best mothers and fathers who ever lived (think about that for a moment) -- all the goodness, kindness, patience, fidelity, wisdom, tenderness, strength and love -- and united all those virtues in one person, that person would only be a faint shadow of the love and mercy in the heart of God for you and me."

~Brennan Manning

Laughter, the Best Medicine

A kindergarten teacher was walking around observing her classroom of children while

they were drawing pictures. As she got to one girl who was working diligently, she

asked what the drawing was.

The girl replied, "I'm drawing God."

The teacher paused and said, "But no one knows what God looks like."

Without looking up from her drawing, the girl replied, "They will in a minute."

Visiting his grandparents, a small boy opened the big family Bible. He was fascinated as he fingered

through the old pages. Suddenly, something fell out. He picked it up and found that it was an old leaf that

had been pressed flat between the pages. "Mama, look what I found," he called out.

"What have you got there, dear?" his mother asked."

With astonishment in his voice, the boy answered, "I think it's Adam's underwear!"

© SULADS International, Inc.

Esperanza Sulads Academy for the Lumad Tribes

September 2012 by Seth Gaskin

As a SULADS volunteer, I was assigned to one of the SULADS academies here in

Mindanao. I was assigned to Esperanza SULADS Academy for the Lumads Tribe. This

academy is located at Salug, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.

I have many experiences during my stay here. Some were funny, some were sad but I

think the story I can tell best is of me. As an American, I had to adjust to a different

environment; an environment opposite to what I was used to when I was in Nebraska.

I am an American who grew up in Nebraska. As an American, by worldly standards, you

could say I lived a pretty, easy going life. By American standards, I was by no means

wealthy, but we were doing fine. I grew up in an Adventist home and from the sixth

grade all the way to my third year in college, where I am now; I have been getting a

Seventh-day Adventist education. I went to church every week and generally respected

my parents and other people.

I have been involved in some outreach and mission work along the way. Judging from

my outer personality, people could see and know me as a good person and a good

Christian as well. Unfortunately, things were not always, as they seemed to be. God

could see what is inside of me: who and what kind of person I really am.

In the Bible, when it talks about the Laodicean church, being neither hot nor cold, that

was me. It was not that I did not have a love for God or a want to serve Him. I was

controlled by my own selfish desires and most of the time, I did not have the urge to get

up and work for God.

Thankfully, God never gave up on me. He has deemed me worthy to work for Him.

Through Divine guidance, I was led to the mission field to give one year for God. I know

without a doubt, God specially picked the SULADS program for me. I know He led me

here and I can also see how this place is working to help change me in areas I needed

changing. I feel almost as if this place here has been tailor-made for me: all the way

from the students, to the faculty, to the geographical area and everything else to help

mold me.

I wished I could say that even though I came here, things were still going to be the

same as it was and that things are going to be perfect and I could see God’s plan for me

and for this campus so clearly. But that’s not quite how things worked so far.

Since I am an American and I have never been here before nor do I know their

language yet, things have been difficult to get used to. When I was dropped off at the

school, I had to adjust to my new life. Foods were different from our house. I could only

eat rice and vegetables everyday. Different language is spoken. There is no electricity,

no cell phone signal and no latest technologies available. My mind and body took some

time to get used to everything. Luckily, the Lord promised not to give more than we can

handle. This made me feel better and at ease. I could tell within just a few weeks that I

was beginning to change though. I felt God working with me in this place and I was

confident of it. Although it would be nice and extremely useful to have electricity, the

isolation from the distractions of this world was such a blessing. I came here hoping to

teach what I knew but it seemed that I was the one being taught. From the time I was

able to spend with Him in meditation and personal devotion, God was bringing me

closer to Him. My love for God and the desire to speak for Him grew exponentially

because of this place. If I chose to stay home, nothing like this would happen to me, not

even in my dreams. Getting used to this new environment was not easy and this made

me trust Him more.

One time, the school faculty and the students agreed to have a survival camping for the

Pathfinders for one night. I really did not want to go because for me, living this kind of

life was survival enough already. All the other teachers were going however and I had to

go. Up until this point, I had a feeling that everything was just going wrong. My phone

broke, my food was eaten by ants, schedules had changed and on and on. I had felt His

presence so strong before and now all I was feeling was loneliness and worry. Then the

camping came and that one night in the elements was torture. Apart from being hungry

and dirty, the bugs were just having a feast on me. Although exhausted and desiring to

sleep so badly, I could not get one wink because of the insects biting me. About three in

the morning, I got up, frustrated at the situation and God. I pleaded with Him to show

me why I had to be here and part of me wanted to just throw in the towel and go home.

Right that moment, a song spoke to me reminding me of the suffering that Jesus went

through for me. If He could go through all that for me, surely I could last this one-year

term. It did not change any of the circumstances, but my attitude and heart was

changed. I came from that camping, a worker for God, wanting to serve

We still go through difficult times here. New obstacles are always ready to get in our

way and Satan never gives up an opportunity to discourage us. That only tells me that

the devil really does not want this place to remain because he knows that the power of

God is in this place. I could not speak for others but for myself, God is using the

SULADS program to bring me closer to His mighty plan. Without this program, I do not

know where I would be spiritually. This program is touching and reaching more people

than I can think of. I will be forever grateful to this place for how it has changed my life

so far.

If you would like to support this mission program dedicated to taking the Gospel to the people of

Mindanao, please write a check to Gospel Outreach. Mark it for the SULADS and send it to: Gospel

Outreach P.O. Box 8 College Place, WA 99324 You may also donate to the SULADS using your

credit card by logging on to Gospel Outreach's donation site (www.goaim.org) and follow the

directions. Again, mark it for SULADS. If you would prefer, you may write your check to the

General Conference of SDA and mark the donation for SULADS and send it to:

General Conference of SDA Donations 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904

Thank you for your support of this very important project.

Prayer Circle Let us pray for:

* The bereaved families of Landon Alamo Merginio, Archie Villagracia Calape

Damayo, Ana TeorimaFaigao, Ruby Dimayacyac-Capalad, Zelle Hilado-

Zamora, Eunice Ferrer-Layon, Villanueva CabardoDaiz, and others who have

lost loved ones recently.and others who lost loved ones recently.

* Our fellow alumni and friends who are ill or receiving treatment:Esther Ba-

al, Jo Tortal, Ivy Catolico Robles, Benny Banaag, Betsy Costanos-Wooljer,

Doug Holstein, Jil Fadre, Alorence Rivera-Alconcel, Ave Catalon- Lorieza,

Evelyn Lipay-Florendo, and Violeto Bocala and many others.

*For the health and safety of all our missionaries and their families all over

the globe.

*For the work of the Sulads and their ministry of the Gospel Outreach.

*For our leaders of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church

* The leaders, faculty, staff, and alumni of MVC as they “Shine On Till Jesus

Comes”.

* Different alumni groups that are in the Philippines and other countries

rendering medical services and evangelistic efforts and all other projects

they do for The Master.

* Each other while waiting for the Messiah’s coming.

Acknowledgment I am thankful to the following for their contributions to this issue: Leilani

Estorco-Macaya, Seth Gaskin, Rollie Donato, Lyn Tabingo, Joy Caballero-

Gadia, Meriam Cadiz-Fabriga, Elbert Moralde, Lemuel Niere, Don

Christensen, Lily Loida Lare, Sweet Kenny Dawn Locop, Donna Pearl Rubino,

Darlene Jean Caliso, Ronnel Aldin Fernando and Japhet Ramos as sent by

Nelson Madriaga. This issue is edited and coordinated by Raylene Baumgart.

Next week's editor and coordinator will be Eddie Zamora. Please direct all

entries and contributions to him at his e-mail address. You may also contact

the other editors/coordinators whose e-mail addresses appear below.

Meet the Editors

Raylene Rodrigo-Baumgart raylene.baumgart at gmail dot com

Jessie Colegado Cyberflashes at gmail dot com

Joy Caballero-Gadia watermankids at yahoo dot com

Evelyn Porteza-Tabingo etabingo at gmail dot com

Eddie Zamora ezamora594 at aol dot com

If you wish to subscribe or change your subscribed address to the CyberFlashes, please send an e-mail

to any of the editors listed above or to CyberFlashes at sda dot net. We spell out the @ and dot signs in

the e-mail addresses to prevent worms, viruses, and robots from harvesting them. If you would like to

correspond, please substitute the correct symbols.

If you wish to "unsubscribe" please inform any of the editors also so your address could be deleted from

the mailing list.

Thank you.

Special Announcement

Inviting contributions for the October 18 issue of the Cyberflashes . Theme:

"Thoughts on Friends and Friendship." Relate an experience with a friend and the

positive influence that friendship had on your life.

Send your contribution to Lyn Tabingo before October 17.

Thanks you.

Closing thoughts

“Often times God demonstrates His faithfulness in adversity by providing for

us what we need to survive. He does not change our painful circumstances.

He sustains us through them.”

~Charles Stanley

Happy Sabbath, everyone!