Reuben Jasper (RJ) Aloyon

Pastor Reuben Jasper Aloyon’s Testimony:

My pastor had the vision to start a campus ministry, and I was one of his prospects. I was hesitant then to commit to this vision since I was a music teacher with many students. Then, I was assigned to teach at one of the cities in Mindanao for two years, and while there, I participated in campus ministries. I was mentored and grew in my faith. My heart opened with the desire to reach the younger generation as I saw many souls who needed Jesus Christ. I became a volunteer campus worker for one and a half years. I returned to Cebu City with the burden of reaching as many young teens as possible. During this time, I met Pastor Cris Pano. I had never mentioned my desire to reach the campus students, but Pastor Cris shared his desire to reach the campuses in Cebu. I believe that God brought us together to fulfill this mission. 

Recent Ministry:

Sharing Christ with the Boy Scouts

The campus ministry at Abellana National High School has been a tremendous blessing, providing a powerful opportunity to reach the Boy Scouts with the gospel. Every Thursday, the scouts gather to hear the message of Christ, creating a space for them to grow spiritually and be inspired to live with purpose and integrity. These sessions are more than just about sharing biblical truths; they also focus on teaching values that will guide these young men through their teenage years with wisdom and strength. The partnership and support of Sir Nolan, a dedicated teacher at the school, have been essential in making this ministry a reality. We are thankful for his willingness to help impact the next generation of leaders

Sir Nolan was assigned to oversee the Boy Scouts’ Thursday formation activities, and he saw this as a unique opportunity to share the gospel. Recognizing the potential to make a lasting impact, he reached out to me to lead the group each week, ensuring that the message of Christ could be shared with these young men. His initiative and commitment to advancing God’s kingdom have been a true blessing to this ministry.

• Please pray for more individuals like Sir Nolan who are willing to partner in reaching out to schools across Cebu. May God raise up dedicated and passionate collaborators to open doors for the gospel and bring transformation to the next generation.

The senior high small group ministry stands as a powerful testament to the impact of consistent outreach and discipleship. Through dedicated efforts and faithful commitment, seeds of faith are being planted and nurtured in the hearts of students, creating a space for them to grow spiritually and embrace their purpose in Christ.

As these students engage in the group’s teachings and discussions, they are not only learning biblical truths but also building lasting relationships that will support them through their high school journey and beyond. The ongoing discipleship continues to bear fruit, and we trust that God will bring forth lasting transformation in the lives of these young people.

This ministry reminds us that when we remain faithful in outreach and discipleship, God’s work will prosper in His time. 

• We continue to pray that more students will be reached and that their faith will continue to grow, impacting not just their lives but their communities as well.

A Season of Joy: Amplified Youth Celebrate Christmas with Faith and Fellowship

The Amplified Youth on the Move and college small groups were excitedly buzzing as the Christmas season approached. Weeks of planning had gone into their joint celebration, a night meant to bring everyone together to reflect on the true meaning of the season while building deeper bonds within the community. The event was set in a cozy hall adorned with string lights, colorful banners, and a towering Christmas tree that the groups had decorated together. Laughter echoed as members prepared a potluck feast.

As the evening unfolded, the spirit of unity and joy filled the room. The celebration started with worship, as voices rose together in heartfelt carols that celebrated the birth of Christ. The college small group leaders shared stories of God’s faithfulness throughout the year, inspiring everyone to reflect on their personal blessings. Later, a fun-filled gift exchange brought endless laughter as unexpected and quirky presents made their way to new owners. The highlight of the evening was a special skit performed by the youth, creatively retelling the nativity story with modern humor and heartfelt moments that reminded everyone why they had gathered. By the end of the night, it was clear that the celebration wasn’t just about the food, games, or even the gifts—it was about the love of God shared in community, the friendships strengthened, and the shared hope for what He would do in the year to come.

Daniel is a young man with a quiet determination and an unwavering faith in God. From the moment he joined Amplified Youth on the Move, his potential to lead shone because he served with humility and a genuine heart for others. In small ways, God began to mold Daniel—teaching him patience through challenges, boldness in sharing the Gospel, and compassion for those who felt unseen. As he organized events, led small group discussions, and prayed for his peers, his leadership naturally blossomed. Others began to look to him not just for guidance but for encouragement as his life became a reflection of Christ’s love and servant-heartedness. Over time, it became clear that God was raising Daniel up to be a leader for his generation. Despite his own doubts and fears, he leans on God’s wisdom and strength, stepping into roles he never imagined he could fill. Under his leadership, Amplified Youth on the Move thrived, not just as a group but as a movement empowered by faith. His peers were inspired to deepen their walk with God and to serve boldly, just as Daniel did. Through his journey, Daniel became a living testament to how God can use anyone—whether young or ordinary—to spark a revival and create a lasting impact when they surrender fully to His purpose.

Amplified Live: Training and Empowering the Next Generation

Our weekly youth service, Amplified Live, provides a platform for young people to reach out to their classmates, especially those who may not yet have the courage or knowledge to share the gospel. Over the past few months, the number of students committed to serving God has fluctuated due to academic pressures. Still, God brings new souls every Sunday through the students’ efforts.

One of the primary goals of our youth service is to train students to become leaders. Each Sunday, we assign tasks that help develop students’ public speaking skills—skills that are essential for their future, whether in ministry or the workplace. We also focus on overcoming stage fright and, most importantly, teaching them to serve the God of heaven and earth with excellence.

Many of our students are now actively involved in various ministries within the service. Some are eager to join the music team, while others contribute to graphic design for the slides used in our youth services. I am deeply blessed by the creativity, enthusiasm, and heart to serve that these young people demonstrate, and I am excited to see how God will continue to use them in His Kingdom.

Discipling Through Small Groups

Every Sunday, our youth service brings together a diverse group of students from high school to college. The energy is always high as they gather to learn and grow together. One of the most impactful parts of our service happens during the breakout sessions. We intentionally divide the group into smaller groups, allowing the leaders to engage more personally with each student.

In these smaller groups, the focus is on teaching, discipleship, and prayer. Leaders facilitate deep discussions, guiding students as they explore their faith, share their struggles, and encourage one another. Most importantly, these moments provide the opportunity to pray together, strengthening the bonds within the group and lifting each other in prayer.

In these intimate sessions, we see actual growth—not just in knowledge, but in relationships. Each Sunday, we witness how these young people from different walks of life unite to support, disciple, and pray for one another. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the importance of nurturing one another in faith.

Prayer: A Foundation for Our Youth Service

Prayer is the heartbeat of our youth service. We believe nothing can be accomplished without it, and we intentionally make prayer a central part of every gathering. Prayer is our lifeline, our backbone—it sustains us, guides us, and empowers us. In our youth service, we aim to model the power of prayer in every aspect of our ministry.

One simple but profound question we ask the students is, “How can I pray for you?” This question opens doors for connection and creates an environment where teens feel safe sharing their struggles, dreams, and needs. It’s incredible how a simple prayer can bring peace, clarity, and hope, especially in the lives of teenagers navigating the challenges of their world.

We also emphasize the importance of modeling prayer. As leaders, we pray alongside the students, guiding them to see that prayer is not just a ritual but a conversation with God—a powerful tool to navigate life. Through prayer, we seek more souls who will respond to the gospel and pray that the students attending our services will feel burdened to reach out to their classmates and share the love of Christ.

In these moments of prayer, we see hearts being transformed, lives being changed, and students growing in their faith. We are reminded that with prayer, all things are possible.

Building Bonds Through Fun: Games That Connect

At our youth service, fun is an essential part of building community. Games play a key role, especially when first-time visitors join us. They help break the ice and create a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. For many of these young people, it’s their first time attending, and we want them to feel at ease and get to know others in a lighthearted way.

The games we play are more than just entertainment; they are an opportunity to build relationships. As we laugh, compete, and cheer each other on, walls come down, and connections are made. It’s our way of showing that church can be fun, engaging, and a place where lasting friendships are formed.

Whether it’s a simple team challenge or a silly icebreaker, we make sure every game is a chance for everyone to join in, regardless of whether they’re a regular or a newcomer. Through these moments of shared fun, we begin to foster a sense of belonging, and in the process, we create lasting memories and deepen the bonds within our youth community.

God led me to a freshman student at the University of Visayas named Mark, who is studying BS in Criminology. Mark and I began meeting every Thursday as he expressed a deep longing to know more of God’s Word. I had the privilege of sharing the gospel with him, and I am deeply grateful to God for granting me the clarity and strength to speak His truth. I am humbled by the way the Holy Spirit works in our lives.

Although Mark had been exposed to the gospel through attending an evangelical church with his mother, who had been invited by friends, he had never fully understood its message. Raised Catholic, he believed that simply attending church was enough to secure a place in Heaven. However, as I shared the gospel with him, the Holy Spirit opened his eyes and his heart, allowing him to truly understand and accept the salvation that Jesus Christ offers.

I am reminded of the letter of Paul to the Colossians: “At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.” Colossians‬ 4‬:3‬-4‬ ESV‬‬. 

• Please pray for me that God will open doors for the gospel on the campuses here in Cebu.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

This month, I had the joy of being joined by two Senior High students, Avriel and Ian, on our prayer walk and gospel-sharing outreach at Abellana National High School. I am truly blessed by their eagerness to share God’s Word within their campus, and it’s inspiring to witness their deep desire for the salvation of their schoolmates. I also thank God for my dear friend, Nolan, who works at the school and leads the Boy Scouts there. Nolan has invited me to be involved in guiding the spiritual aspect of their group, presenting an amazing opportunity to spread the gospel even further!

• Please pray that I will proclaim the gospel clearly and effectively to every student.
• Please pray that the students’ hearts will be receptive to the gospel. Pray also for us as we share the gospel boldly, changing the campuses one student at a time.
• Please also pray for Avriel and Ian that they will continue to impart the life of Christ as they step out of high school and to college next school year. Pray for their hearts that it will continue to burn for Jesus.

Empowering Students for Discipleship and Gospel Outreach

I praise God for the lives of the students I meet each week. The next challenge is to help them begin discipling others and sharing the gospel with their classmates. Please include me in your prayers, that God would grant me wisdom in discipling and equipping them to disciple others as well. I am encouraged by the vision of Amplified: to see a movement of transformed students, growing together in small groups. Amplified is not just a movement, but small groups are essential to the ministry.

• Pray for wisdom as I seek to reach the lost on campus and guide these students in their journey of faith.

Transformed by Jesus

I spent an afternoon with Richmond, a young man who identified as gay before encountering Jesus. I vividly recall meeting him for the first time in 2021 when he attended our youth service dressed in a pencil skirt. Witnessing how God’s incredible love transformed his life has been awe-inspiring. I invited Richmond to share his testimony during one of my sermons at church, and I would love to share his powerful journey with you as well.

Before I met Jesus, my life felt empty and directionless. I was constantly searching for meaning and fulfillment but always ended up feeling isolated and unsatisfied. Even in the midst of people, I carried a deep sense of loneliness and disappointment, chasing after things that left me unfulfilled.

Then, I encountered Jesus, and everything changed. It was as though a light was switched on inside of me. For the first time, I experienced true peace and joy, along with an unconditional love I had never known. My life gained purpose, and I realized I was never alone. While following Jesus isn’t always easy, it’s worth every challenge. I’ve learned to trust Him in difficult times, to love when it’s hard, and to forgive even when I don’t feel like it. Jesus has transformed my life, giving me hope, joy, and a deeper understanding of what it means to live fully. Every day, I am profoundly grateful for Him.

• Pray that many will come to know Jesus through Richmond.
• Pray for Richmond as he faces challenges, knowing that he is the only believer in Jesus inside his home. 

Prayer Walks

Abellana National High School is one of the most populated High Schools in the City. I am thankful that Nolan, a churchmate I disciple, has been hired to teach in the school. We have the same vision and heart for the students. Every Wednesday, we have been doing prayer walks inside the campus together with Sir Nolan, a values education teacher at Abellana National High School. We agreed to do prayer walks regularly and pray that students will join us.

Our vision is that AMPLIFIED ministries will become a CLUB in the school so that we can freely work and start small groups inside the campus. Sir Nolan is in talks with his supervisors about the Club. It will not be feasible this school year, but we pray that the next school year will be the right year for the club to start.  

In the image, to my right is Nolan, and to my left is Fritz. Both are my churchmates, and they are the reason I can enter the school. 

• Pray for them, as they will be the key for Amplified to start in the school. 
• Pray for more teachers who are willing to be used by God in our campus ministry.

AMPLIFIED 2^ND Anniversary

This month, we have celebrated the start of AMPLIFIED’s second year of God’s faithfulness to the student’s lives and the change that the Holy Spirit has made. God is working in the lives of the twelve campus movers. These students, who are now ready to magnify Jesus on their campuses, were the target audience for the revival. While reading the book of Acts, I was reminded that I am powerless without the Holy Spirit. We can watch Him move if we rely on Him and are receptive to His guidance. For the previous years, I tried to handle things independently, depending on the methods and training I had received, but I was unsuccessful. During the anniversary, we shared the Gospel with five first-timers and are now growing in small groups. To God be the Glory!

They are stepping up!

I praise God for the life of Daniel, who is a 2nd-year college student and one of the 12 campus movers who, at CTU, one of the state universities situated inside the city, is now keen to visit his campus. I give thanks to God for using Daniel in ways that are unique to Him. Daniel was among the initial pupils with whom I traveled in Jesus. He aims to magnify Jesus in his life and the university where he is a student. One of the ways we worship God is by learning from and praying with each other, supporting one another to keep serving God even at the most trying moments in our lives. I do spend some “accountability” time with him, coaching him and helping him cover his “blind- spots.” Please lend Daniel prayers.

Experiences from Youth Camp

Daniel realized from the camp that facing life’s battles, struggles, and temptations must be in the light of God’s words. The significance of trusting God must be developed over time, particularly in decision-making. 

Jennah is a Junior high school student known for being nonchalant in the group. We were so blessed when she shared her testimony to the group, sharing how God challenged her to reach out to her classmates by sharing the gospel using the Salvation Hand. The significance of God’s word was emphasized to her as a weapon against the temptations and hurls of Satan in her life.

Abbie is a senior high school student. During the camp, being blindfolded made her anxious, a bit afraid, excited, and conscious of what would happen. After the event, she realized that life’s temptations and trials will always be there.  It was her great comfort to memorize verses and to be deeply anchored in God’s word to surpass all challenges. 

Avriel is a senior high school student blessed to attend the Youth camp sponsored by Whitefield’s International. She learned much from the plenary sessions and, most importantly, the Salvation Hands lesson. She appreciated the Gospel hands and was challenged to share Jesus inside the campus and anywhere possible. To God be all the glory!

Developing Leaders

Two years ago, my campus ministry journey began, where I fervently beseeched divine guidance in multiplying my efforts to ignite a passion for discipleship among fellow students. Despite my earnest prayers, a year of waiting left me grappling with impatience. However, this waiting period was a profound lesson in divine timing, teaching me that God’s timetable transcends human impatience. The equation of God’s will, way, and timing revealed itself: God’s will, executed in His prescribed manner and time, yields His ultimate best.

Witnessing the fruition of students embracing the vision of disciple-making within campuses has been a testament to the beauty of God’s timing. Their commitment to amplifying Christ’s love within academic settings has underscored the profound impact of aligning with God’s will and method. In hindsight, this journey underscores the profound truth that when we surrender to God’s divine plan and patiently await His timing, the outcomes far surpass any humanly orchestrated endeavors.

Amplified Saturdays

In our weekly Saturday gatherings, our aim extended beyond mere passive participation in worship and scripture study. We intentionally infused the sessions with interactive games and icebreakers, fostering an atmosphere where students could forge new friendships within the Christian community. This emphasis on fellowship aligns with our overarching goal for youth services: cultivating a supportive environment where students uplift one another, as exhorted in Hebrews 10:23-24. Witnessing students from diverse backgrounds and academic institutions come together to worship, deepen their faith in Jesus, and enjoy each other’s company brings immense joy and fulfillment. It’s genuinely heartening to see the bonds of Christian fellowship strengthen amidst shared moments of worship and fun.

Amplified: Empowering Student Leaders to Become Campus Movers

I have been fervently praying for students who will fully embrace the vision of Amplified and take the bold initiative to disciple others for Jesus. These students embody fearlessness in proclaiming the Gospel and serve as catalysts for transformative change within their respective campus communities. Avriel, a Senior High student attending one of the city’s largest public high schools, stands out as one of our emerging leaders in Amplified. Alongside Avriel, I’ve been interceding for Amplified to establish a presence at Abellana National High School, where Avriel and her peers are already hosting small group gatherings and spreading the gospel among fellow students. Avriel’s dedication to advancing the cause of Christ on her campus is genuinely inspiring.

An effective strategy for reaching campuses across Cebu involves campus movers – individuals like Avriel who facilitate my engagement with students for the sake of Christ. Avriel has now assumed a pivotal role as one of the core leaders of Amplified, a cadre of campus movers actively supporting our mission within their respective schools. I am overwhelmed by the evident work of God within our ministry across various campuses. I ask your prayers specifically for Abellana National High School, which represents one of our key target institutions. Currently, I am engaged in discussions with a supportive teacher regarding establishing Amplified as an official club within the school. I am diligently navigating the necessary procedures to gain legal recognition and access to the campus. Rest assured, your prayers have not gone unheard, and gradually but assuredly, God is answering them. While the timing may not always align with our expectations, I rejoice and offer gratitude to Him for the doors He is opening within our Campus Ministry. I implore you to pray for the continued success of our ministry endeavors across Cebu’s campuses. All glory belongs to God!

The Minefield Series

Every generation has its struggles. However, it can be challenging for one generation to relate to another. Understanding the anxieties and concerns of young people in 2024 is a minefield like no other. Social media, vanity, peer pressure, and the list goes on. In this series, we will cross the minefield and identify each landmine that lurks beneath and aims to destroy us. We will use the word of God as the detector for the landmines. This series aims to help students and teens walk wisely as they journey with God. At the end of the series, students will be more careful in how they live their lives—a life that will be pleasing to God. Students will be able to recognize the distractions and dangers of what the world is teaching, especially through the internet. Students will draw near to Jesus and start a relationship with Him.

I praise God for the lives of BTC students assigned to our church for their fieldwork. BTC is a Bible school located in Mandaue City. They will be with us for their fieldwork, and at the same time, they will be trained by our church through the ministries they will be part of. They also help in discipling students every Saturday, imparting their lives to the teens and students with us.

Icebreakers are critical to starting our youth services and in my small groups. They tend to loosen the teens up and create a bond with other students. Our services every Saturday are both fun and full of learning.

Pray for the lives of the teens being discipled through AMPLIFIED ministry. Pray for a transformation of the heart. Pray that many more will come to know Jesus through these students.

Emulate the examples of Andrew.

As I delved into the life of Jesus in the book of John, specifically the chapters where He chose His twelve disciples, Andrew stood out. Observing Jasper, I’m reminded of Andrew, who brought Peter and other fishermen to Jesus. Witnessing Jesus transform him, and he, in turn, brought people to encounter Christ. Over the past year, I’ve seen God change Jasper’s life—from a struggling teen uncertain of his identity to someone wholly surrendered to Jesus, now actively bringing souls to Him. Currently a senior high student at ACT, Jasper understands the importance of sharing God’s love with everyone he meets.

Prayer requests:

Pray for Jasper’s studies, as his family faces financial struggles due to high tuition payments. Pray for his desire to start a small group at ACT. Praise be to God!

First Youth Service of the Year 

In our first youth service of the year, held at the Whitefield’s office, known as the “HUB,” we focused on prayer. I was privileged to deliver the message, guided by Luke 11, where Jesus teaches His disciples to pray. Since Cebu City recently concluded the SINULOG festival, and many attending were Catholic teens familiar with memorized prayers, around 20 high school and college teens joined the service. I’m excited about what God will do in the lives of these teens entrusted to us.

Below are some photo snippets of our kick-off youth service.

Prayer requests:

Pray for more souls to come to the feet of Jesus. Pray for Jasper, who desires to reach out and impart Jesus in the lives of the students here in Cebu. Indeed, Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”

KC’s Exploration of Baptism and Faith

Jasper warmly invited KC to participate in our small group gathering. A senior high student enrolled in a local K-12 school, KC, who has actively engaged in Amplified Youth Services, opted to join our discussion centered around baptism.

Her thoughtful inquiries regarding the true essence of being a follower of Jesus revealed a sincere interest in the topic. Amid the dialogue, she contemplated, “Is it possible to follow Jesus without baptism?” We clarified that baptism is a public proclamation of faith and a deliberate choice to align oneself as a follower of Christ. I emphasized that should KC decide to undergo baptism, it would symbolize her complete surrender and obedience to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. As she navigates this spiritual journey, please keep KC in your prayers, especially considering the challenge posed by her family’s deeply rooted religious beliefs with historical significance.

Pray for KC to be bold in showing her family the truth about following Jesus, not just the traditions of religion. Pray for Jasper as he is battling with gender identity. Pray that God will be the center of his life.

Christmas Joy: Amplified’s Festive Celebration

The afternoon resonated with joy and lively games, culminating in a pizza party! Amidst the cheerful atmosphere, our weekly youth service welcomed high school and college students, where the speaker taught the profound significance of the Virgin’s birth in Jesus’ earthly arrival. We express gratitude for God’s transformative work among the students at Amplified, addressing various challenges, including those related to gender identity. Looking back on 2023, we praise Jesus, acknowledging Him as our source of strength. This Christmas celebration centered on Jesus, transcending mere festivities or material gifts. We emphasized to the students that He is the true reason for the season – born of a virgin, the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. Our gratitude and praise find their focus in Jesus and His abundant blessings.

Please continue to pray for the lives of these teens as they journey with us to be more like Jesus. Pray for their studies, that they will do their best in school, and that they will not be distracted in any form of distractions in school.

Reaching Cebu

I thank God for all the favor He has given in our ministry to reach the students here in Cebu for Jesus. Three years ago, we were praying for the start of a ministry designed to reach the students and to start a youth service. Now, we have three small groups of college students that meet regularly in the White Fields office as its location is ideally located at the center of the University belt in the city. We also have two small groups of high school students with both Junior and Senior high. I can proclaim confidently that God answers our prayers.

The Friday small groups are composed of college students who are enrolled in three different universities in Cebu, namely the University of Visayas, South Western University, and Cebu Eastern College. God has also opened doors for us at Cebu Institute of Technology—University. We regularly meet there for a small group. I am praying since other para-churches are already inside some universities, that our next step will be to bring the Amplified ministry into the campus as an organization in the accessible universities.

We praise God. He has opened the doors to a new university, and we have already started our first meeting there this week. Daniel, one of the students who really captured and understood our vision to reach the students at CTU brought three of his classmates for a small group. I have shared the gospel with these classmates, and they have agreed to bring more of their peers to Jesus. We will be having a regular small group meeting every Monday night after their class. I thank God for all the good things He has done in our campus ministry.

• Please pray for me to reach more students and for God to open more doors in high school and college.
• Pray that God will prepare the hearts of the students and the teachers for the gospel.