Encounter God Retreats Held Amid Pandemic

“Gather to Me these consecrated people who made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.” - Psalm 50:5

By: Mira P. Poyaoan

The Jesus Is Lord Negros Oriental remained dynamic and unstoppable in advancing the kingdom of God as it held Encounter God Retreats (EGRs) last year. The church courageously responded to the goal of bringing more souls to the kingdom of the living God and saving more lives through a life-changing retreat despite the deadly COVID-19 outbreak that swept in 2020.

On August 21-22, 2020, 42 participants attended the first-ever new norm EGR held at the JIL Office in Bagacay, Dumaguete City.  The participants received a new direction and purpose in their lives. They came to know and encounter God intimately through a series of fundamental teachings and personal experiences they had during this event. This retreat was also broadcast live to hold a virtual EGR, facilitated by three church leaders, in the municipality of Mabinay with 12 delegates. It was an unprecedented type of EGR. God did not fail to pour out His heavy anointing even though the participants just watched the teachings through live videos and followed the instructions given virtually. The Holy Spirit's presence manifested upon each of them, thus making each one a totally brand new person whose life is fully committed to Him

The JIL Bayawan also held a two-day EGR on September 25-26, 2020, in Pagatban, Basay. Another wave of God’s miraculous power totally changed the lives of 16 people who actively participated in the said event. May it be youths or adults, God’s overwhelming presence dwelt in every individual who wholeheartedly sought the One true God.

Indeed, God’s awesome and transforming power was evident in the lives of all delegates who participated in these momentous life-changing events. Despite all the restrictions brought by the COVID-19, God freely moved through the lives of every participant. The EGRs all ended victoriously as more people received healing, breakthroughs, restoration, and salvation. They came to know and accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and personal Savior.

In this hopeless and perishing world, a personal and life-changing encounter with God becomes a great way of shedding light, hope, and life to the perishing souls. Despite the pandemic's limitations, the church persists to fulfill its mission, sending leaders to the mission fields. May God bless Jesus Is Lord Church Negros Oriental!