One fine Sunday, on 15th June 2025, Bethany Milan stood in awe of the great and marvellous things that our Lord Jesus Christ has done—and continues to do—for those who love Him and boldly proclaim Him as the only Lord and Saviour. Bethany Milan, together with Bethany’s outreaches from Malta, Norway, Poland, Rome, and Switzerland, ministry partners, missionaries, a multitude of visitors, and delegates from various parts of the world, gathered in unity with one goal: to point souls to Christ as they celebrated the church’s 8th-year anniversary.
Eight years of faithfully carrying the light of Christ was no easy feat. It was a journey beautifully adorned with sacrifices, trials, joys, and triumphs—fulfilled not by human strength, intellect, talents, or wealth, but by the enabling grace of our Lord, who promised, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” It is a story written by steadfast hearts who willingly and intentionally walk by faith, not by sight.
The anniversary service was marked by powerful worship, the bold preaching of the Word, and the sweet fellowship and singing of the congregation, including 65 visitors and a good number of delegates from across the globe.
During the service, the Church Covenant—which outlines the church’s beliefs and values—was signed by 15 brethren who became members of the church within the past year. These were: Liza Galvez, Rose Arellano, Joeven Sagala, Veronica Ramos, Bro. Edmundo Ramos, Samantha Benito, Juliet Tayag, Marites Torres, Nining Galera, Julie Roque, Grace Cortez, Marites Quirante, Lorena Espirito, Annafe Amolar, and Jovelyn Parohinog. The signing of the covenant signified their commitment to one another as one body in Christ, faithfully devoted to one another in Christian love.
The preaching of the Word was delivered by Dr. Robert Kent Jesalva, Pastor of Bible Baptist Church, Katipunan, Cebu City, Philippines. Pastor Jesalva boldly preached about the true measure of human greatness—humility. Humility, vividly seen in the life of Jesus Christ, despite His greatness. His message stirred every heart with a strong reminder that every celebration should be centered around Christ; Christ must always come first, and everything else should be secondary.
It was marvellous to witness precious souls who came forward in profession of faith. Our hearts overflowed with joy to see the fruit of labour for the sake of Christ—not only in Milan, but in many parts of Europe and around the world.
The church’s 8th anniversary was followed by a heartfelt Father’s Day celebration in the afternoon. The celebration began with heartwarming video presentations featuring some of the fathers and their children in our church, showcasing words of appreciation and love towards one another.
Pastor Kent Jesalva proceeded to share the Word, revolving around the question, “Why Father’s Day?” The passage in Deuteronomy 6:7 reminded us of the God-given role of fathers—to lead, to lovingly discipline, and to demonstrate a fatherly love that reflects the heart of God. The message left us reflecting on this important question: “What legacy will a father leave to his children?” At the forefront of any legacy a father should strive to leave is the legacy of loving the Lord supremely.
It was truly a blessed day, honouring the fathers in our church who embody leadership, love, and legacy.
