On May 29, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET, Sister Techie (Soar) Rodriguez, TLF Elder, arrived on the East Coast as she continued her USA Mission Trip. Accompanied by her mission companions, Brother Froi, Sister Judith, and Brother Jess, they landed in Newark, New Jersey. The TLF leaders and members from New Jersey warmly welcomed our Elder with sheer joy and excitement. It was a nostalgic and joyful gathering of TLF members on the East Coast marked by four years of interrupted (personal) meeting due to the pandemic crisis.
Following their arrival, the Lord’s Flock (TLF) New Jersey Chapter shared an enjoyable feast/ fellowship with Soar at Applebee’s. It was an incredible joy to reunite in person, sharing laughter, and indulging in a splendid meal with our Elder. On the second day of Soar’s mission on the East Coast, they ventured to New York. It proved to be an unforgettable experience for Soar and her companions as they embarked on the PATH Train that connects the two states (NJ-NY). Immersed in the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, they got to witness the vibrant city firsthand while riding the Sightseeing Bus.
In the afternoon, they all headed to Times Square to grace tourists and locals with TLF Rekindle Dance. Soar, along with Brother Froi and Sister Judith, enjoyed a fun ride on a popular pedicab from Times Square to Rockefeller. There were plenty of behind-the-scenes stories about this ride, so be sure to check out Soar’s Facebook post! At Rockefeller. TLF members once again delighted tourists and bystanders with the Rekindle Dance, this time joined by the leaders of the Brooklyn Chapter. The evening concluded with a taste of the popular Halal Food from the streets of New York.
On the third day, leaders and members from New Jersey, Brooklyn, and Virginia reunited once again to attend the Leader’s Meeting. Soar discussed a Leadership Topic at Our Lady of Victories Parish Church in Jersey City, New Jersey. They were reminded of the importance of unity and forgiveness, letting go of past hurts. The evening concluded with love for one another and a sumptuous meal shared by everyone.
Moreover, the Spirit Empowerment Seminar (SES) took place on the 3rd of June at the lower church of Our Lady of Victories in Jersey City, New Jersey. During the seminar, Sis Techie explained The Four Basic Truths based on the Bible: (1) God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life; (2) All have sinned and are separated from God; (3) Jesus is the only way to salvation; and (4) You must accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Seventy (70) individuals attended SES: New Jersey, New York, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Among the attendees, 40 were seekers, and 31 received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
After the baptism, the seekers were invited to share their diverse personal experiences: a profound sense of the Holy Spirit’s presence. These included cold sensation, warmth embrace, and perceived image of Jesus (Infront of them).
Furthermore, several individuals shared stories of how God had miraculously saved them from accidents. They firmly believed that these miracles marked a second chance; it is a compulsion to resurrect their lives through faithful service to the TLF community.
The seminar concluded with a heartfelt celebration as TLF members embraced and congratulated the renewed Sisters and Brothers in Christ. The atmosphere was filled with joyous singing and dancing, exemplifying the message of the song “Rekindle” as a reminder to ignite and nurture the flame of love and obedience to God inscribed in their hearts.
The next day, the fourth of June, Sis Techie gathered the leaders and members from New Jersey and Brooklyn Chapters at Our Lady Help of Christian in Brooklyn, New York. The purpose of this gathering was to share the TLF’s theme for 2023:”Rekindling.” During the gathering, there was also a session on assimilation, focusing on how to conduct small group discussions using a modified Alpha System. The attendees were divided into five groups, and within these groups, they openly shared their thoughts and reflections on the assigned topic. This interactive approach provided an opportunity for meaningful engagement and fruitful discussions among the participants.
Finally, the East Coast Mission came to a close. The shared experiences created a profound sense of connection and bonding. As TLF members, it was emphasized that the flame must be rekindled and safeguarded from fading away. The message resonated strongly. The flame must be continuously ignited always mindful not to let the fire weaken or to slowly flicker and diminish.
To God be the glory!
Written by: Krishy Gayatao
Edited by: Sis Vera I. Tuplano
