Interview with Bob Lerion
Earlier in 2023, a team from GBC comprising some elders and members visited LifeLite Community in Tacloban City. They spent a weekend there teaching and getting to meet the members of the church. In October, Bob, the pastor of the church, spent a month learning with us. We interview him here to find out more about him, his experience with us, and how we can keep him and the church in prayer.
1. Hi! Could you share more about yourself and your church?
I'm Dwayne Bob Lerion, married to Bernadette, and privileged to serve as the pastor at LifeLite Community, a church that has flourished for eight years in Tacloban City, Philippines.
2. How did you become a Christian? From there, how did you end up as a pastor?
I was actually raised in a Christian home. However, it was during my college years that a friend shared the gospel with me in such a profound manner that it deeply impacted my faith. The clarity and depth of the message convicted me, sparking a sincere commitment and fostering a deeper relationship with Christ. This newfound dedication led me to actively engage in campus ministry and my local church, where I continually nurtured my faith and developed ministry skills.
Following my college days and involvement in campus ministry, I embarked on a career with an international humanitarian organisation. Nevertheless, the devastating aftermath of Super Typhoon Haiyan in 2013 in our city reoriented my life's trajectory. Feeling a compelling call from God, I transitioned back into full-time ministry to play a pivotal role in the city's recovery. An encounter with Pastor Dennis Koh (one of GBC members), actively involved in the city's rehabilitation, prompted me to respond to the call to help establish a new church and serve as its pastor.
3. How has your month in GBC been? What are some encouraging things for you despite GBC being a church in a different country and or/culture from what you’re used to?
My recent month-long experience at GBC (October 1–22, 2023) during my short-term internship was incredibly enriching. It provided me with invaluable insights into various facets of church operations, ranging from elders' meetings to care groups and one-on-one coaching time with Pastor Eugene. Attending the Leaders' Conference themed "Building Healthy Churches" with Pastor Mark Dever was undeniably one of the most enlightening highlights of my time there.
Despite GBC being situated in a different country and culture, the experience has been genuinely uplifting. I am immensely grateful for the invaluable lessons I've learned during my internship, recognising principles that can be readily contextualised within my church in Tacloban. This unique opportunity has equipped me with profound insights that will significantly contribute to nurturing a biblically healthy church in my hometown.
4. How can we be praying for your church and congregation?
I humbly request prayers for LifeLite Community. Please join us in praying for our continued growth, both spiritually and numerically, seeking strength, protection, provision, and wisdom for our team and families. Additionally, I earnestly seek prayer support for the success and impact of our Student Sponsorship Program (SSP), which aims to positively influence and support more young people and families in our community.