Weekly Uplook December 31

Dear Seattle Saints,
Greetings from the Philippines.  Lori and I arrived here safely on December 27 and the next day immediately entered into their Year End Consecration Camp.  It was three days of Bible Studies, Sermons, food, and fellowship with about 350 of our Filipino saints from many of our churches here.  It has been a blessing to be here and see how the Lord has held things steady even after the tragic loss of their Pastor/District Superintendent last September.  God is good.  

We concluded the meetings with a watchnight service followed by a time of fellowship with donuts and hot chocolate.  For us it is a new experience drinking hot chocolate when the outside temperature is above 75 degrees Fahrenheit even at midnight but it seemed to be enjoyed by all.  …And yes because of the time difference I am writing this on your 12/31 at about 4 pm but for us it is already mid morning of the new year.  

Our next week is scheduled with a church dedication and travels to visit a number of our other churches here.  Next Sunday, January 8 we will celebrate the church anniversary of our Headquarters church in the Philippines as well as install a new District Superintendent.  To that end I have already been meeting with the Board of Trustees and Pastors here and the mantle of leadership seems to be clearly indicated by the Holy Spirit.  

We are thankful for another year with all of its’ blessings and trials now coming to an end and also for the hope and possibilities of a new year…not only here in the Philippines but at home in Seattle.  We are praying for each of you and expecting the blessing of the Lord if He tarries and looking forward in hope to His soon return.  God bless each of you and may you have a blessed and Happy New Year.  Continue to pray for us.  

In Christ,
BB

Rev. William E. McKibben
Senior Pastor