Aeta Pastor Johnny Lindayo and many dozens of Aeta Christians celebrated the faithfulness of God March 15 during their first church anniversary. Only one year ago they were just a handful of new believers exploring the joys of their new life in Christ. God is really blessing Alambihoran and His children! Today things have changed.

Poverty, drunkenness, and despair were the most common characteristics in their village in the past, but today everything is changing. Now there is hope and the future is bright. Not everyone in the village is a believer yet, and there is in fact much persecution, but those who are following Jesus are not dismayed, they are filled with joy and happiness!

Their new church building was completed a few months ago, and it is already overflowing every service. The Aeta here have received healings, deliverances, and salvation even though they have no "professional pastors" or priest, no bible school graduates, and no missionary to do the work of the ministry. Instead, they have learned that they have the authority as believers to use the Name of Jesus to experience the Power of God to help them against the enemies of their souls and of their God.

Western missionaries who have visited the Aeta Tribal Churches in the area have been amazed that the people have learned so quickly to practice their faith so effectively. The churches planted in this formerly unreached people group are all self-governing, self-supporting, and self-propagating. The three pastors and 20 elders do not receive salaries, and they are the decision makers. Outside assistance has been in the form of roofing materials, teaching leaders, and monthly visits to encourage the disciples.

Three more pastors and several new elders will be ordained and appointed in April. Pray for the Aeta Negritos of Negros Island as they continue to grow in the knowledge and mercy of God. Many of them have learned to read the Bible now, and their lives keep getting better and better as God answers their prayers!