Welcome First Filipino-Amercian Presbyterian Church of Southern Nevada

A New Church is Born!

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On Sunday afternoon, October 23, 2016 about 200 people gathered in the sanctuary of the Green Valley Presbyterian Church to share in an exceptional and joyful celebration: the chartering of a new congregation in the PC(USA): the First Filipino-American Presbyterian Church of Southern Nevada (FFAPC)!    Moderator Scott Plummer called the meeting of the Presbytery of Nevada to order following a time oimag1726f praise and worship led by the FFAPC Praise Team.  In attendance to celebrate this special occasion were pastors and members from several congregations in our Presbytery, Rev. Mei-hui Lai from the Presbyterian Mission Agency, our Presbytery staff, members and friends of FFAPC and 20 or so members from Calvary Presbyterian Church of Wilmington, California, the church that planted FFAPC ten years ago.

The Petition to Charter the newest church in the Presbytery of Nevada was joyfully and unanimously approved.  In addition, the Charter Members of FFAPC were received, the first Session and Board of Deacons were elected and installed, the call of the first Pastor, the Reverend Mariano “Nonong” Ordonez was approved and the Presbytery installed him as Pastor.

The Rev. Emmanuel Orendain, pastor of Calvary PC preached an inspiring sermon titled, “Not Just Another Light in Vegas.”  He encouraged the new congregation to let the light of Christ shine brightly in their life together and in their ministry to the community.  The service included outstanding music presented by the FFAPC Praise Team, FFAPC Choir, thimag1736e Choir of Calvary Presbyterian Church, as well as a powerful solo by renowned tenor and FFAPC Choir Director Edward Granadosin.  The congregation shared in the Lord’s Supper and in prayers for Pastor Nonong and the congregation.  It was truly a wonderful and memorable worship service for all who were able to be present.

Following the worship service, everyone was invited to experience Filipino hospitality at its best!  What a bountiful and delicious feast awaited all the guests – including the celebrated “Lechon,” a whole roasted pig!  There was laughter, music and even some dancing as all shared in the joy of the special day.  May God continue to pour out blessings upon pastor and people in the common ministry!  Welcome FFAPC!

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