PART 14 ARSENIO G. LLAMAS OF NEGROS...A MAN OF FAITH
PART 14 SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT THE LLAMAS FAMILY OF THE PHILIPPINES
BY: DEO ANTONIO D. LLAMAS
ARSENIO G. LLAMAS OF NEGROS...A MAN OF FAITH
President of Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches ( CPBC)
On Managing Relationships On Measuring Transformation
AUGUST 7, 2009...12:51 PM
Contextual Ministry of A. G. Llamas
FOREWORD
The story of Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr. is a faith journey accentuated by poverty, struggle, and courage responding to the challenge of providing a unifying leadership vigor to a tense atmosphere of a national organization of nearly a thousand members Convention of Philippine Baptist* Churches (CPBC) and yet keeps an appointment with destiny.
Although his birth and youth were smudge by poverty and hopelessness, he was buoyed by a new-found faith in the Person of Jesus Christ. His fellowship with Christians helped him develop a firm faith, an open mind and humane heart, thus, can readily adopt new perspective, dimension and direction in life; internalizing the teaching of Jesus that “all things are possible to him that believes.”
His ascendancy to CPBC’s presidency is not accidental, but providential, for it’s difficulty to get elected to head a convergence of over 130,000-member strong national body of people of diverse social standing, different levels of educational discipline and of numerous spiritual deepness. Lawyers, businessmen, real estate tycoon, ministers, landowners, and educators (university presidents, deans, and professors) have aspired for the position but only a few were chosen; and Rev. Llamas is one among the few.
His early ministry in a small village church to a town church; his teaching ministry and presidency of a provincial union; helped prepare him for a greater height of leadership. His election to lead and serve CPBC in this one crucial moment of its history is indeed a divine intervention.
We commend Dr. Sergio A. Rojo, Jr. for writing and publishing this mini-biography. Though Rev. Llamas “communicates well enough verbally”[WM. Paul Young, The Shack: Where Tragedy Confronts Eternity, (Newbury Park, CA: Windblown Media, 2007), 14.], he acknowledges being uncomfortable in the written form, in which Dr. Rojo lend his strength.
In the over 100-year ministry of the Philippine Baptist Churches, there are numerous life-stories of faith, commitment and leadership waiting to be put to print. Stories that can inspire and guide the upcoming generations of Christian leaders in the fellowship from the countryside to the urban centers all over the country and the world over until we come face to face with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
- Rudy Bernal, Vice President
Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches
Iloilo City
July 25, 2009
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Putting this back/story into print is an experience for the Body of Christ at work of sort. Like the physical body, all those who were involved in this project, contributed according to the role they passionately play with great and careful kindness. Those who were drawn together to this modest endeavor are all acknowledged in this space.
Rev. Jacinto B. Castillo and Mr. Edilberto E. Sta. Ana for providing Christian hospitality during my trip to Himamaylan. Eng’r. Eric Rencee A. Alindao and his beautiful wife, Debbie Balajadia-Alindao for their design collaborations (he in his magical cover design and she in her desktop charms); Pastor Wilfredo G. Faldas, II and Ms. Nancy B. Bajao for their clerical logistics; Ms. Deli A. Baclagon for her expeditious facilitation of documents from Iloilo. Mr. Fred V. Bat-og who helped me chip away from a chunk of write-ups until we see a more accurate remembrances of what have transpired in a lifeline.
Our sincere thanks go to the contributors – “Friends’ Lenses” – Pastor Nic Balinas; Mr. Wilson Guanzon; Mrs. Josette Jalando-on; Rev. Dr. Armand Kole; Ms. Sarah Leyble; Pastor Jimmy Murillo; Atty. Adoniram Pamplona; Rev. Salvador Parpa, Jr.; Rev. Ruben Tiangson; Rev. Felix P. Tingson; Rev. Aldemaro Tupas; and Mrs. Ruth V. Valencia; Mr. Llewelyn Yngson. We truly appreciate your clear lenses.
Special thanks to SARJ Schole for publishing this project and to Rev. Noel L. Luces for his keen comments on the book.
I am fond to each and everyone and I am expressing my full gratitude to you all.
Rev. Dr. Sergio “SARJ” Rojo, Jr.
Introduction
The work of ministry of the Lord Jesus is contextual. Contextual ministry is understood as permitting “Jesus to be reborn in a local culture.”[http://tinyurl.com/nukxdn] This requires stripping the Gospel of its trappings and allowing it to come alive in a way that makes sense to the people in a local community.
This book is not a contextual theology treatise at work, but an attempt of translating in print a life experience, work of the Ministry of Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr. Perhaps, his ministry experience is not strikingly exceptional, but it can offer a sense of uniqueness and serves as a resource to the ministry; nor is a case of “outliers. . . about men and women who do things that are out of ordinary,”[ Malcolm Gladwell, Outliers: The Story of Success, (New York, NY: Little, Brown, and Company, 2008), 17.], but a sustaining one that the churches needs today.
We need to understand why God has called him to His ministry. What’s about him and his brand of ministry that the Lord need in the vineyard? Llamas’s story is similarly situated in the story of Mackenzie Allen Phillips where he wanted “a narrative to help him express to them not only the depth of his love, but also to help them understand what has been going on in his inside world.”[Young, The Shack,14.] In this slim volume we explain and enflesh a contextual ministry in a back-story.
Faith Journey
The Psalmist affirms an eternal truth of faith journey when he says, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:13-14). Llamas’s life and his contextual ministry, we believe, are well-founded in this biblical truth.
It is said that everyone needs sanctuary, a place to find peace and to reflect on life. [Nancy Gibbs and Michael Duffy, The Preacher and the Presidents: Billy Graham in the White House, (New York: NY: Center Street, 2007) x.]
Himamaylan, Negros Occidental is sanctuary for Llamas. Meanwhile, in the Philippine context, “the unborn child is believed to interact both with its internal and external environment. The mother’s experiences and her desires affect the character andfuture of her unborn child.” [Raul Pertierra, Religion, Politics, and Rationality in a Philippine Community, (Quezon City, Metro Manila: Ateneo de Manila Press, 1988), 96.] So a woman claims certain “intimidatory” rights over her husband on account of her condition the moment pregnancy is diagnosed.[ Ibid.] The woman “develops cravings for unusual foods, becomes moody and demands more attention than usual from her husband,” adds Pertierra.[Ibid.] We call this pangala – a kind of intimidatory right. In this case, Goring (Arsenio’s mother), had an unusual craving for kamoteng kahoy (cassava). Ginpanamkon si Cócó sa kamoteng kahoy. [Coco was conceived out of cassava.] It is perhaps, for this reason that his arms are of cassava-tuber-like shape.
“I breathed my first breath as a boy born” [Wes Roberts in Linwood House Ministries. (http://tinyurl.com/l54x5a)] to parents, Gregoria “Goring” Gran and Arsenio “Senyong” Sr. [The older Arsenio died in 1988.] on March 20, 1952, Llamas said. The first inhalation of air “was followed by a cry for life, of sorts, and was first heard” [Roberts in Linwood House Ministries] at Sitio Nasug-ong, Barangay (village) Caradio-an, in Himamaylan, Negros Occidental. According to the elderly Goring, it was Aquilina Gran-Vallar, a paltera (midwife) and a close relative, who helped her deliver the young Arsenio right in their home. Arsenio jr. is the third in a sibling of six.
Arsenio grew up as “Coco” to family members and close relatives. The now elderly Goring used to wash clothes for the family when Coco was a toddler. While doing her laundry chores, Goring would let Coco lie down. In order for her not to be distracted, Goring would hang over Coco a calendar where pictures of a candy named as Phicoco. Coco would enjoy playing the pictures of the candy, as if he would like them. So every time, the mother Goring, would say in vernacular “Coco, ari na; ari na” (here’s Coco; short for phicoco). There goes the name Coco unto this day.
Modest Circumstances
Malcolm Gladwell notes that the story line is always the same for autobiographies of billionaires, entrepreneurs, and celebrities published every year: “our hero is born in modest circumstances and by virtue of his own grit and talents fights his way to greatness.”[ Gladwell, Outliers, 18.] He cited an example in the life of Joseph in the Bible. Though cast out by his brothers and sold to slavery, Joseph rose to prominence as Pharaoh’s right hand because of his own brilliance and insight.[Ibid. ]
Llamas was born in the midst of “poverty and chaos”[Ibid., 73] and modest context, a cast out by socio-economic standard, which is measured as extreme poverty. He had to walk kilometers of railway tracks from home to attend high school classes in search for education, without monetary provision. It was not only due to his grit and talent that made Llamas what he is now, but God in His own terms and mysterious way enabled Llamas to be a contextual vessel for His ministry.
Gladwell argues,
The people who stand before kings may look like they did it all by themselves, But in fact they are invariably the beneficiaries of hidden advantages and extra ordinary opportunities and cultural legacies that allow them to learn and work hard and make sense of the world in ways others cannot. [Gladwell, Outliers, 19.]
To our mind, it is God who destined Llamas to be what he is today.
Llamas grew up in a community where gambling is the “order of the day”. Though he was “externally religious,”[Willie, “Foreword,” in Young, The Shack, 10.] the older Arsenio was a master gambler, while employed as tax collector in the municipal government of Himamaylan.
“My exposure to the marketplace and gambling dens at my tender age, where my father was a professional gambler, had helped in molding my character. If I consider myself as a gutsy decision-maker, it’s because of my experience and exposure to the realities of life in my early age of three.”
In spite of his immersion in such environment, Coco was unique and by nature good and obedient and importantly remains vice-free. Like any young boy he took pride in running errands for the family.
Confluence of Souls
Confluence is defined as “flowing together of two or more streams, rivers, or the like.”[http://tinyurl.com/bc9o84] This can best describe the marriage of Coco and Diana. Their confluence of souls is based on the “yearning to connect with another human being in whole person ecstasy. . . a sacred gift that is frankly overwhelming in its potency.”[Mark Scandrette, “Loving-Making as Spiritual Practice,” in Godspace. (http://tinyurl.com/nm7umd).] They are separate souls but flow together in love for each other and for the Christian ministry had brought many lost souls to the Salvation of Jesus Christ which earned them the respect and love of the Christian brethren and the community.
Florence Diana Añovert hails from San Remegio, Antique in Panay Island. An alumna of the Convention Baptist Bible College (CBBC), she received her diploma in Christian Education in 1976. For a while she worked at Manalad Baptist Church and on November 26 that year, she said her marriage vow to Coco. The marriage bore them three “unusually beautiful kids”[Young, The Shack, 13.] in Greace Agape; Marlin Grace; and Leonard Norris.
His Education
Rev. Llamas got his secondary education certificate from Himamaylan High School, earned a Diploma in Theology (valedictorian) from the Convention Baptist Bible College (CBBC) in March 1977, and obtained a Bachelor of Arts (AB) degree from West Negros College, both in Bacolod City.
During his CBBC years, together with classmates Nic Balinas, Norman Gasataya, and Ronnie Luces, they formed a signing group called the Four Sharps, performing in various churches and Christian events. In his second year at CBBC, Mrs. Harriet Houston and Ms. Chita Naciongayo referred him to Mrs. Juanita Snyder-Mott for a scholarship grant. While studying at CBBC, Llamas was supported financially by Himamaylan Baptist Church and Mrs. Juanita Snyder-Mott.
After his Theological study, he decided on taking another degree course. He deemed it strategic to take Liberal Arts in political science in preparation of addressing future needs that he foresees based on observations that organization conserves and institutions capture, schematize and codify persistent patterns of activity.[Dan Hotchkiss, “The Art of Governance,” The Alban Weekly, 247. (http://tinyurl.com/n5rbud).] In that decade, organizations in Baptist churches in Negros Island made no exception to the realities cited by Dan Hotchkiss. In fact it was noted that election of officers among Baptist churches’ organizations in Negros Island were always hotly contested. In this logic, Pastor Llamas seeks to be equipped in parliamentary procedures for him to be governed by reason while participating in parliamentary processes, which were neglected by most religious fellowships.
Besides, he was also curious over the “role of faith in public life,” [Gibbs and Duffy, Preacher and Presidents, x.] and wants to understand the realms of politics and religion, how they relate with each other and become effective tools in advancing the Kingdom of God. In a way, he wanted “to put his beliefs to a tough intellectual road test.”[ Ibid., 3.]
After all, balancing the realms of politics and faith is a unique challenge. With steadiness and perseverance in his heart, he finished his Bachelor of Arts (AB) in Political Science from West Negros College (now University) in March of 1988 and later in 1993 took supplemental subjects in Secondary Education.
Ordination in Christian Ministry
After graduation from CBBC, Coco received two calls, first from a city-based Cosmopolitan Evangelical Church and second from a town-based San Enrique Evangelical Church. Coco preferred working with the later where he served in 1977-78.
His San Enrique stint was short-lived when he took issue with the church’s chairman over a donation bought out of gambling winnings in which Koko stood his ground followed by a resignation.
After San Enrique he accepted the call of Isabela Evangelical Church. It was there that he sought ordination. There are at least three major reasons why a pastor seeks ordination from the CPBC Ordination Council:
- Firstly, an ordained minister can address church’s needs that a non-ordained minister could not meet;
- Secondly, an ordained minister raises the church’s reputation in the community; and
- Thirdly, an ordained minister characterize a fuller sense of commitment to the ministry, thus providing the congregation a higher degree of spiritual security.
During the oral examination Dr. Johnny V. Gumban, aware that the Isabela Evangelical congregation splits in two, asked Llamas, “Where is God between Isabela Evangelical Church and Isabela Baptist Bible Church?”
Llamas innocently replied, “wala ko kabalo sir [I do not know, sir], I am so sorry.”
“What if almost all of your congregation members would transfer to Isabela Baptist Bible Church?” added Dr. Gumban.
“If Rev. [Teodulo] Bolneo would not agree that we both serve as pastors of the church, then I will look for another pastorate,” answered Llamas.
The Ordination Council must have discerned the humility of Llamas, that three months after, the Council informed the Isabela Evangelical Church congregation that Llamas has passed the ordination examinations.
Coco Llamas was ordained on May 28, 1981 by Isabela Evangelical Church. Ordination Speaker was the late Rev. Querico Caipang, his pastor at Himamaylan Evangelical Church who baptized him.
The Llamas family was subsisting then from a Php350 monthly stipend from the church, an amount that could hardly make both ends meet, thus they depended on God’s provisions through people in many and unique ways.
One Friday, the young family had nothing to eat and the couple was overly concerned with Greace. Meanwhile, Llamas got his broom, as he used to do, and swept the floor (second level of the parsonage). In the course of the chore, Llamas found a ten-centavo coin. The ten-centavo coin was a great material blessing to the family. Out of the money, the couple bought ginamos (salted fish) and kamote (root crop) leaves and fed Greace.
The following day, a Saturday, very early in the morning, a letter courier from the town hall came to the parsonage and delivered a letter. The letter, it turned out, contained a check for US$600 from Mrs. Mott.
It was during his work as pastor of Isabela Evangelical Church that Llamas befriended Efren Bardillo. The friendship has impacted on Bardillo so much that he changed loyalty from being a sacristan of the Roman Catholic priest in the area to became a regular worshiper at Llamas’ church. Bardillo was impressed by the lifestyle of Llamas that he painted a charcoal portrait of Coco, which hangs on the wall at the receiving area of the Goring’s house to this day.
While studying at CBBC, Llamas was supported financially by Himamaylan Baptist Church and Mrs. Juanita Snyder-Mott.
Learning Trade Skills
In the early stage of his Christian life, Coco had befriended Jorge Villavecer and Joel Arbolario. They were the ones who introduced him to the Faith after which he found himself active in church activities.
In his younger days, before entering CBBC, Llamas learned some skills in the ministry from pastors he met who have significantly influenced the development of his ministerial approaches and pastoral skills. There were three pastors, namely:
Rev. Querico Caipang – pastor of Himamaylan Baptist Church in the early 60s. Rev. Caipang baptized Arsenio Jr. on April 23, 1963.
Rev. Aldemaro Tupas – pastor of Himamaylan Baptist Church after Rev. Caipang. Llamas used to mimic the preaching style of Pastor Tupas. At the back of the Himamaylan church was a huge mango tree where Llamas used to preach to the unseen congregation using the big mango roots for pulpit. No wonder Llamas has the evangelistic zeal similar to that of Pastor Tupas.
The third personality that has significantly influence the life of Llamas was Fernando Torres. He was Pastor of Himamaylan Baptist Church in 1965 who died due to a sea accident. Torres and Llamas had a kind of Paul-Timothy relationship especially in pastoral nurturing and discipleship.
Tending the Embers
Tending the embers is to “breath gently to invite those coals to burn a touch brighter, patiently await a first leap of new flame, and only then blow with vigor to fan the spreading of fire.”[Howard E. Friend, Jr., ”Tending the Embers,” Alban Institute. (http://tinyurl.com/nhxlc4).] It is like stirring up “the fire with a stick, causing it to blow with renewed vigor.” [Young, The Shack, 39. ]
From Isabela Evangelical Church, Llamas was called to serve as pastor of Murcia Evangelical Church. He is shepherding this flock for twenty-seven years now. The ministry-work of Llamas in Murcia is a case of contextual ministry in “tending the embers.”[ Friend, ”Tending the Embers,” Alban Institute. (http://tinyurl.com/mqmkc7).]
Before accepting the pastorate at Murcia, Llamas had to check the background of the church. One common observation was, as though Llamas was trying to evade the burning coal that will eventually take him in hell. Murcia Evangelical Church appeared to be an inferior religion when Llamas and his family first arrived there in 1982. Of course, the Roman Catholic was the major religion in Murcia.
Rev. Asisclo Pico was his predecessor in Murcia. What impressed Llamas when he took over the pastorate was that a pastor must commit to the vow of extreme poverty and must agree always to the desire of the congregation, especially the officers.
Now the Murcia Evangelical Church becomes a force to reckon with in the community.
Llamas was called twice by relatively large churches in the Bacolod City area but for some reasons he declined. Foremost of these is his belief that God has called him and his family to tender a Baptist congregation in Murcia. In between his pastoral ministry, Llamas is actively involved in church-related organizations. Foremost of these, he was elected president of the Negros Kasapulanan Ministers’ Association in 1983-1985 and president of the Negros Kasapulanan of Baptist Churches in 2006-2008. After the first biennial assembly of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches and during the organizational meeting of the CPBC Board, Llamas was elected president for years 2008 to 2010.
This writer has the following account of the meeting.
On June 13, 2008 onboard Weesam Express: This is an organizational meeting for the new set of officers of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches. Members of the Board of Trustees from Negros Occidental onboard Weesam Express, 6:30AM trip from Bacolod to Iloilo are as follows: Mr. Wilson Guanzon, Outgoing president; Atty. Danilo Pedrosa; Atty. Adoniram Pamplona; Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr.; Rev. Salvador Parpa, Jr.; Rev. Noel Luces; Rev. Dr. Armando Kole; and myself.
Mr. Guanzon was the first to arrive at BREDCO. When the boat was about to leave Mr. Guanzon encouraged us to gather at the deck. There, we huddled a lot. We discussed the criteria on leading religious organization. We resolved that the one who would succeed Mr. Guanzon in CPBC would have ability to lead and loyalty and commitment to the mission of the Convention. In that one-hour trip, we in consensus to elect Rev. Llamas as next president of CPBC.
Present during the meeting at the CPBC Board room were as follows: Mr. Wilson Guanzon, outgoing president; Atty. Danilo Pedrosa; Atty. Adoniram Pamplona; Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr.; Rev. Salvador Parpa, Jr.; Rev. Noel Luces; Rev. Dr. Armando Kole; Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Fabula; Dr. Juanito Acanto; Mr. Francis Jalando-on; Rev. Edwin Lariza; Mrs. Myrna Elacio; Ms. Sharon Rose Ruiz Duremdes,; Pastor Rodolfo Bernal; Pastor RD Celeste; and myself.
The candidates for President were Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr., who got 10 votes and Dr. Juanito Acanto, who garnered 4 votes. [Dr. Acanto made a motion to cast a unanimous vote for Llamas. His his privilege speech, Dr. Acanto emphasized the value of unity among the Board members and in churches in the Convention]. Pastor Rodolfo Bernal was the lone candidate for vice president and he was voted unanimously. [From the journal writing report of Sergio A. Rojo, Jr. dated June 13, 2008.]
The consensus decision was affirmed in the organizational meeting. Llamas would serve as President of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches for two (2) years from June 2008 to May 2010.
Out of his pastoral work experiences, Llamas has learned the following realities.
When asked of his ascension to the Leadership rung of CPBC he has these to say:
“I did not ask to be a leader in a much larger organizations but God would always call me. There were teachers at CBBC who have sensed my leadership ability.
“Unconsciously, I was trained to be a leader because of my exposure to the leadership circle.
“To me, leadership is not pleasing everybody. There is always a time to make a decision. After all, indecision renders casualties to parties involved.
Out of frustration of existing leadership realities in churches and leaders group, Llamas organized groups among the young pastors. He also conceptualized the mediation group to settle dispute among the churches in the CPBC jurisdiction.
Driving Passion
Passion has something to do with following the heart by doing something which one could get energized with. Pleasing God in whatever he does and aims for, is Llamas’ driving passion. There is no static in his life especially in serving God. This passion for God drives Llamas to enjoin us to “commit ourselves to staying united, to never cease in caring for one another and bearing one another’s load, and in keeping the spirit of humility and openness, to sit down together and talk about things that will improve the way we do the work of Christ here on this particular part of our world.” [Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr., “The President speaks,” in Ang Manugbantala Herald, October-December 2008, 3.]
In his address message during the 55th Founding Anniversary and College Week celebration of Bacolod Christian College, Llamas encourages his listeners to live a life that “… madumduman kita tungod sang mga matahum ta nga hinihimoan (we can be remembered by our beautiful deeds ). He concluded his message by quoting the Apostle Paul saying, “…Let us not grow weary in what we’re doing for in due season we will reap.” [Wilfredo G. Faldas, II, in Transcript of Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr.’s Sermon during the BCCN College Week Opening Celebration on February 23, 2009.]
In a similar note, Llamas admonish CPBC folks, “to stay together with the rest in the same ship, even if the journey is long and fraught with risk and difficulties… and never abandon ship, especially when the temptation to do so is strongest.” [Llamas, “The President Speaks,” Ang Manugbantala Herald, January-March 2009, 3. ]
Nearly-tragic Experiences
Life is not all a fair day, there are times that even in a very clear day all of a sudden rain falls at a time least expected putting us in panic especially when we are caught in an open field enjoying the sunshine.
This is true to Rev. Llamas for sometime in 1983, while preaching at Dancalan First Baptist Church in a campaign spree soliciting financial support for the Negros Kasapulanan operations, suddenly Llamas suffered from synaptic nerve dysfunction forcing him to take a break, only after finishing the sermon.
On February 8, 2009, “while preaching at Murcia Evangelical Church, I felt a severe pain at the neck” as if he would die.
While working in Isabela, Llamas was sick for almost a couple of months. He was suffering from typhoid fever. Greace Agape, his eldest daughter, “would sleep beside me and yet she did not get ill.” In spite of his sickness, he would still rise up early morning and on Sundays to preach to the congregation, his way of feeding them with the Word of God.
Dr. Celso “Bording” Villanueva, Jr. a fresh graduate from medical school one day visited Isabela and learned of Llamas’s condition. Dr. Villanueva then visited and treated him and he got well. However, the sickness rendered him literally at a state of flesh and bone. When Mrs. Juanita Snyder-Mott visited him in Isabela, she was struck with pain of Llamas’s situation. Right there Mrs. Mott gave him US$600. Since then Mrs. Mott gives periodic financial support to the Llamas family for 17 years now. Mrs. Mott adopted him as a poster son.
Difficult situations would lead most often to desperation, but God would always provide Koko’s family with needful provisions every time it comes.
Humble Confessions
It is said that confession is good for the soul so it is for president Llamas. Here are some thoughts culls from his confessions.
Llamas subscribes with John Calvin’s confession and suppliant petition. It is quoted in length here.
. . . Let us turn our ears to the sound of that trumpet which even the ashes of the dead will hear in their tombs. Let us direct our thoughts and minds to that Judge who, by the mere brightness of His countenance, will disclose whatever lurks in darkness, lay open all the secrets of the human heart, and crush all the wicked by the mere breath of His mouth, and your party; our cause, supported as it is by the truth of God, sons, whose safety will be found not in defense, but in humble confession and suppliant petition; but insofar as our ministry is concerned, there is none of us who will not be able to speak for himself as follows. [Emilie Griffin, ed., John Calvin: Selection from His Writings, Foreword by Marilynne Robinson, (New York, New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 2006), 4.]
Llamas, without reservation also believe in the word of Billy Graham saying, “I didn’t have any other motives throughout my life but to proclaim the gospel.” [Gibbs and Duffy, Preacher and the Presidents, 2.]
Another belief that Llamas holds in his heart is this: “The way to transform people, a pastor would always build bridges in order to arrive at a positive human relations.” From there, Llamas trains his people and equip them to be partners in God’s ministry. Those who were trained in various areas of the ministry became leaders in their own rights. Besides, Llamas puts his whole being to the belief that a pastor must serve in the ministry and becomes a blessing, instead of being a burden.
Friends’ Lenses
Literally, a glass “can help us see things from a very, very far away.” [Johansson, The Medici Effect, 183.] The lenses here are an expression on how we would see people. In this section, let us find out how a sphere of friends would see Llamas from their own perspectives.
Pastor Nicolas M. Balinas
1974 was the year when I enrolled at the Convention Baptist Bible College, Bakyas, Mansilingan, Bacolod City. Our batch of freshmen was the largest in the college. Among my classmates is the now Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas Jr. or Koko, as we fondly called him. He was a quiet student but the smartest and talented. I could dearly remember that he always incite laughter for his jokes that entertain. Although at times a joker he has command and leadership skills to convey his thoughts to fellow students and the teachers alike. During discussions his ideas were mature. We formed a singing group called “Four Sharps” and won during literary and musical competitions at CBBC. Due to his mature manner we elected him the Student Body Organization President. After our three years schooling he graduated valedictorian.
In 1978 I was a pioneer Pastor in a mountainous barangay [village] called Old Sibukawan in Isabela, Negros Occidental and Koko was Pastor of Isabela Evangelical Church. Every time I go to Brgy. Sibukawan, I would pass by and visit him at his church. I would bring coal, sweet potatoes, and bananas but instead of receiving my gift, he puts monetary value to those items, which helped me in the work.
I learned a lot from Koko in serving the Lord and how to establish a proper direction in the ministry. I once wanted to stop my pioneering work, but the Lord used Koko to encourage me to continue pursuing this ministry amidst the difficulties which I endured. He really helped me a lot on how to be mature in many aspects of my work. Sometimes he would invite me to speak in his church at Murcia Evangelical Church.
When he was the President of Negros Kasapulanan [provincial conference] of Baptist Churches in 2006, I was the incumbent Minister of the Kasapulanan, and both of us were a team who pursued the programs of the association.
I cannot find words to describe how I know him or how to give the proper credit for this faithful servant of the Lord. But let me end with these words, Koko is my best adviser and a best friend.
Mr. Wilson D. Guanzon
I first met Rev. Arsenio Llamas in 1977. At that time, I was the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Convention Baptist Bible College (CBBC) when he received his Diploma in Theology. From there I prophesied that God would use him mightily in His Kingdom. Perhaps, my prophecy of him ushered our friendship and it just started there and I thank God for blessing me a friend such as him.
I consider Pare Seniong as a servant empowered by God’s strength with the dedication to follow the Lord’s will. With a cool demeanor to tackle the task at hand, you can rarely see him drained of will to overcome, no matter how overwhelming the task will be.
The Lord has brought him to key positions as a leader in CPBC, the Negros Kasapulanan, and the association of pastors. He has constantly shown that not only is he a very capable leader, but one who has the uprightness to pursue the dictates of the Lord and do what is right above the sea of opposition and disarray. He truly is a pillar in the leadership of our churches.
I would like to recall that during my Presidency in the Negros Kasapulanan from 1984-1987, Rev. Llamas and Rev. Felix Tingson were the leading church leaders who were a big help in my ministry and service during that time. This strengthened our friendship further and I was even given the opportunity to be the godfather of his only son, Leonard Morris Llamas.
I hope and pray that as the years go by, Pare Seniong will continue to pursue the Lord’s plans for him in his life with much zeal and enthusiasm. God bless you, my dear friend!
Mrs. Josita Alpha Gico- Jalando-on
A little over two decades ago, I got to closely know Pastor Llamas as a dynamic and promising man of God.
Through the passing of the years, I got to know him better amidst many circumstances in our church life and our institutional organizations. I came to respect and admire the inner man, the true self of Pastor Llamas.
From then on, I consider him as one of my “pastor-friends” whom I could entrust with confidential matters without doubt and hesitation. In fact we have made an agreement that on the occasion that my home-going should be ahead of his, he will give the Prayer of Comfort for my family and loved ones.
His middle initials has become one of our standing jokes, as I called him our long-lost uncle, a relationship which he has played to the fullest until the Lord solved the matter for us.
One of the special ties that bind us is our dreams for our beloved CPBC. We have spent times discussing and sharing our sentiments regarding the what-have-been and shedding some tears over lost opportunities. We have prayed together and praying with him has always been a source of comfort and strength especially when I was serving as President of the Convention Baptist Bible College, his beloved Alma Mater. He was one of the few pastors who came and prayed for me and I really appreciated it.
God in His own perfect time has given Pastor Llamas the favor he so richly deserves!
Rev. Dr. Armando S. Kole
“A Passionate Man of the Word”
I have known the Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr. as a colleague in ministry for quite some time now, and indeed knowing him as a person whose life has been surrendered to the Lord, and one whose commitment to the ministry does not falter even in trying times, is indeed inspiring and worth emulating.
For almost four decades now of faithful service to the Lord, the Rev. Llamas has exemplified in his life and ministry the meaning of servanthood in the Bible, the preeminence of the Word for the world in his preaching ministry, the essence of forbearance in difficult situations – a rare quality that is found wanting today among modern-day preachers, and the man who would stand his ground on principled philosophy in ministry regardless on who gets hurt and affected because of his personal convictions, especially on matters that have theological and socio-political bearing to the Church vis-Ã -vis the world.
As an unassuming guy and pastor of an evangelical church in Murcia, the Rev. Llamas, not to mention his rich experiences in ministry and the credentials he earned – both religious and secular – remains humble. He always makes sure that his feet still clutches to the ground. He is one guy I know who has lots to say on any subject under the sun; a man who is bifocal – the world and word are always in his thoughts, and probably this is the reason why his sermons are relevant, down to earth and very effective.
I’ve known great preachers in the past – [Rev. Salustiano] Cabahug, [Dr. Johnny] Gumban, [Rev. Ernesto] Carvajal, men who excelled in the pulpit. I am inclined to believe that Rev. Llamas’ gift in preaching can equal them. He is truly a passionate man of the word, and his preaching always bears witness to the one who is Mighty and Lord of his life and ministry – Jesus Christ!
Ms. Sarah G. Leyble
“A Pastor; A Friend”
Perhaps almost everyone knew that Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr. is the incumbent President of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches this biennium (2008-2010).
But, I guess only few know that this quiet and unassuming pastor has been a part of the efforts in making the students and graduates of the CBBC and CPU Seminary became closer. He discourage the tendency to compare and compete by closing the gap between the two schools. Graduates and students of our decade believe that there is no such thing as a “better” school; what we have are schools that prepare students to become better leaders to “pastor” the churches of the Convention.
Rev. Llamas translated this into concrete terms by becoming a member of a team that went around our churches promoting both schools’ theological education program and a kind of pastoral training that meets that needs of our churches, and at the same time inviting, challenging, and encouraging young persons to enroll in the school of their choice to become pastors themselves.
That was in the mid-70’s, when CBBC and CPU Seminary had a joint summer program involving faculty members and students—Faculty Involvement Summer Program. It was like the usual Gospel Team, but this one has a faculty member from the theological school went with the team. I was in a team with “Coco”. I was then studying at CPU Seminary and Coco with CBBC. We were organized into teams, underwent an orientation, and it was then up to us to get to know each other better while already in the team, and sent off to specific church assignments. We hopped from one church to another lugging our suitcases and box of materials.
Travel and accommodations those times were not comfortable as today. But difficulties were coupled with fun and excitement for the experience. We were bonded together in that team by our common calling—to be pastors thus, giving the best in us wherever and whenever God wants us to be. Coco served as leader of our group. He was a natural leader who can relate with all kinds of personality, simply because he doesn’t put a label to a person. His openness and non-judgmental attitude makes it easy for people to approach him, be it for any kind of help for that matter, or to deliver a sermon or reflection. He was, in fact, our designated “manugwali”(preacher) in the team, mainly because he does not refuse a request to preach, any time.
Coco is soft-spoken, quiet and unassuming, diligent in study and preparation for whatever he wants to do. To me, Coco is indeed an embodiment of the pastor our theological schools hope to produce. That summer program planted the seed in the hearts of our youth in those churches, and in turn, a number have decided to respond to God’s call to become pastors. I am of belief that our team, with Coco in the lead, was instrumental in their decision, and helped build good relationship between the aforesaid theological institutions. A testimony to this claim is our friendship that has remained strong through the years.
July 2009
Jaro, Iloilo City
Pastor Jimmy S. Murillo
To be a man of God is God’s gift. Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr. the incumbent President of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches was my schoolmate at CBBC in 1975-1976, our senior for two years.
Personally, I know him because he is my sister Shirley’s best friend and classmate in the seminary. He called me “migo”, meaning friend ever since atc CBBC. He is low a profile and humble servant of God.
Rev. Llamas was among the outstanding students at that time. A potential leader, he became the Student Body Organization President. He has served as Pastor of my home Church, the San Enrique Evangelical Church. A good preacher and evangelist, he easily won the sympathy of our Church members. In his term as Pastor, our Church members were actively involved in church activities and programs, our congregation became the “salt and light” of our community. “Migo” Coco is a good administrator; a dedicated and committed servant of God; sincere and frank because he expresses appropriately what he felt. No wonder God make him our CPBC president.
We member-churches are expecting him to run the CPBC in the Godly foundations as mandated by Christ. I hope and pray that the seeming gaps among our leaders Rev. Llamas may be able to fill in. Since Rev. Llamas is a man of reconciliation and positive thinker, he will make objective decisions. I also hope that there will be unity in the work of CPBC through his leadership.
Congratulations “migo”! You are truly a Man of God.
Atty. Adoniram P. Pamplona
He could have been anyone and anything. Possessed of a commanding personality, eloquent speech and a sharp mind, Pastor Arsenio Llamas would have succeeded in any endeavor he pursues. Given his personality and eloquence he could have aspired for an elective public position and would have served that position with distinction.
Indeed he was a successful businessman in Isabela, prospering in such a short time. But he gave up that business when he found that it became an impediment in his Ministry.
He prospered beyond his expectations in sugarcane farming in Murcia adding to his acreage year after year until it reached the point where it competed with his Ministry. Then again at the height of his success in this field, he gave it up.
Some find refuge in the Ministry after suffering failure in other fields. Pastor Llamas found his sanctuary in the Ministry after enjoying in other fields.
It inspires and encourages us beyond words to find one so talented but still in the Ministry despite the tantalizing call of other fields. He has chosen the best and has given it his all.
Rev. Salvador L. Parpa, Jr.
A Man of Few Words!
I knew Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas Jr. as a man of few words but his life and works speak a lot of commendable things.
Though a graduate of a relatively small Theological School but produces ministers and workers that occupy more than 80% of the member-churches and other strategic position in other related institution of our Convention [CPBC], it is a fact that Rev. Llamas is the first CBBC graduate to hold the Presidency of the Convention, the highest position in the leadership rung of our organization.
I fondly call him Migo Senyong. Mahipos pero maka prinsipyo nga alagad sang Dios kag handa mag risgo para sa kawsa sang Gino-o (Silent but a principled worker of God and always prepared to risk for the cause of the Lord), so much so that he is often misunderstood by others. Because of his integrity and God-given talent, he finds favor to many.
As a family man, he is faithful husband to his wife, Bebing Diana, and a well-respected father to his three children. Above all else, Rev. Llamas is a well-loved pastor of Murcia Evangelical Church for more than 20 years.
To my Amigo kag masig kaalagad sa Gino-o (To my friend and co-worker in the Lord), always remember Hebrews 6:10, “God is not unjust, he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
MISPAH – Bebot, Bebing and Children
Rev. Ruben C. Tiangson
God has His own way of preparing His servant to be used in His Kingdom building today. One might call it destiny, good luck or a charted course. No doubt however, it is a heavenly call for one who joins the ranks of willing and faithful servants of God. In charting the course of his life we found Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr. not an extraordinary man, but a simple and ordinary person with an extra ordinary heart fully surrendered to his Maker. Like the prophet Isaiah, Rev. Llamas was confronted by a true and living God, which in turn changed his social, economic, and emotional status into a person God wanted him to be.
His gift of making the word of God alive in his preaching is astounding. His eloquence in delivery, imaginative in his presentation and down to earth in his illustrations makes his preaching full of conviction. Pastor Llamas’ love for justice makes him sensitive to the plight of the outcast, the abandoned and neglected. For him life means touching the lives of people and pointing them to the Savior Jesus Christ.
Rev. Llamas, a man planted as a seed and now a tree, continues to commit his life as a teacher, pastor, friend, mentor and leader. From his family to his local congregation, the Negros Kasapulanan of Baptist Churches and the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches, Rev. Llamas leads all the way for God’s Greatest glory!
Rev. Felix P. Tingson
It is an honor for me to be able to participate and give my personal thoughts on Rev. Arsenio Llamas.
I have known him since school days at the Convention Baptist Bible College, and we keep in touch even when distance kept us apart in different places, but working for the same goal – that of the servant of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ are meant for. I have known him to be faithful in his service to our Lord. He has served his church and the community well.
I am sure, he could have pastor some big city churches and involved well in the secular field if he so desire, but his passion for the lost, and his love for the church members has made him stay all these years in this village but wonderful church. He has shown himself to be a worker in the vineyard worthy of his calling. I have known his personality to have integrity, depth, intelligence, and good humor.
What a privilege to know him not only as a co-worker in the vineyard but also as a friend.
Rev. Aldemaro E. Tupas
Arsenio, as a young man, showed wisdom in most of his actions. He was very conscientious in doing things, especially in the works of the Ministry.
In the church, he was one of the very active young people particularly in the choir. Only now I realized that my pastoral work in Himamaylan had significant impact to Arsenio and his ministry. I thank the Lord God for being part of this great man of God – Arsenio Llamas Jr.
Mrs. Ruth V. Valencia
“A Common Place Where Life Makes a Beautiful Whole”
There was a task needing to be done. Someone was needed to do it. The master looked for someone. He found His man ready, willing, and faithful. That man was Arsenio Llamas Jr. He was the right man in the right place at the right time; God used him. See the outcome? He became President of the Convention of the Philippine Baptist Churches.
Coco, as we fondly call him back home in Himamaylan, is one of the most inspiring patterns of Christian godliness have known. A very ordinary man who lived a really out-of-the-ordinary way of life. The ordinary life is often the most difficult because it has the fewest outward stimulants and therefore requires a deeper and steadier faith within the heart. But that is our dear Coco. Quiet, deep but ready and faithful. Soft spoken but his voice when in the pulpit booms and challenges you to stay awake and alert.
I am personally touched by his faithfulness. In his obedience to God’s ministry, there shines three beauteous things: his kind minister and devotedness to his work mark his readiness. His willingness is marked by his obedience concerning time, place and result. As to his faithfulness, we can see his Christian love, loyalty and humility. To me he is the kind of servant God always uses.
So mark this man. Let the beautiful way which is Christ used this ordinary man give such solid comfort to cause us to resolve on fuller loyalty to our heavenly Father in the days ahead so that the daily common task will be transfigured and will make a beautiful whole.
That is Arsenio Llamas Jr.!
Mr. Llewelyn P. Yngson
A man of virtue that represents the profound example of a servant of God unflinchingly committed in service for His ministry. These words cannot simply fathom the depth of his character.
I know Rev. Llamas as a person who centers himself as a committed servant in the ministry. Having served the Lord for more than 30 years, this is a sheer sign that he is truly called to be God’s servant. In the breadth of his service he has brought many to the loving salvation of our Lord Jesus Christ and led the sheep of God’s flock through storms that may drain us of strength but may never stop him.
Having faithfully served God as a pastor and leader for both the Negros Kasapulanan and the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches, I can say that he is one contemporary leader that God calls to bring about stability in troubled times. Having been brought to the Presidency of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches is indeed a great honor and at the same time a duty that may seem daunting, yet with God’s strength and Rev. Llamas’ faith and determination, he has hovered the waves of challenges and has come about evermore devoted to pursue the Lord’s work.
As a short perspective on Rev. Llamas, I hope that I may have given you a concise yet informative glimpse of a man that is truly dedicated in service of the Lord.
Conclusion
“Life is a process, not a result… a journey and not a destination”. [Matt Biondi, “Foreword: Thriving for Success,” in Toxic Success: How to Stop Striving and Start Thriving, (Makawao, Maui, HI: Inner Ocean Publishing, 2002), xiii.] So with faith in God. Like Jimmy Carter, Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas’ “faith is a source of strength and comfort to me.” [Jimmy Carter, “Losing My Faith for Equality,” in Godspace. (http://tinyurl.com/nbtrvk).] While Carter’s Christian faith is manifested in his being a deacon and a Bible teacher for many years, Coco expresses his faith in a ministry context, especially in pastoral work. His is a work in progress. We earnestly pray that God will sustain him, his family and the ministry he is committed to. God’s abiding grace be upon those whom Llamas will continue touching with His love.
POSTSCRIPT
Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr. is invited to address the annual conference of the ABC-USA in New Jersey this September 2009. July 24, 2009 was “D-Day” God-sent for him. With no substantial documents except for the letter of invitation from Rev. Felix Tingson, president of ABC-New Jersey, and certifications from the CPBC and Bacolod Christian College, Llamas with his guest # 210, queued at Window #5 for his 7 o’clock AM interview at the American embassy in Manila. There, the US Consul tells Llamas in Tagalog vernacular that his visa to travel to the USA has been approved. Upon learning of the approval, the first phrases that Llamas uttered, “Thank you very much, Sir and Praise the Lord.”
About the Biographer
SERGIO A. ROJO, JR. (most people call him, Sarj), is an ordained Baptist minister cum educator with a doctorate degree from Bakke Graduate University in Seattle, the USA. Sarj now serves as Executive Minister of Salts Community Chapel; Director of SARJ Schole; and President of Bacolod Christian College.
In 2007, Sarj edited a book, Wilson D. Guanzon: A Relational Life. Mr. Guanzon had served twice the presidency of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches.
Sarj and his wife, Timmy, live in Escalante City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. with their five children: Jun-Jun; Tim-Tim; Jates; Taj; and PTh.
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sarjschole
December 12, 2009 at 5:34 am
Kindly forward to my e-mail ad your contact numbers here in the Philippines. Thank you
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BLOG AT WORDPRESS.COM. | THEME: PRESSROW BY CHRIS PEARSON.
F FAITH
BY: DEO ANTONIO D. LLAMAS
ARSENIO G. LLAMAS OF NEGROS...A MAN OF FAITH
President of Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches ( CPBC)
On Managing Relationships On Measuring Transformation
AUGUST 7, 2009...12:51 PM
Contextual Ministry of A. G. Llamas
FOREWORD
The story of Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr. is a faith journey accentuated by poverty, struggle, and courage responding to the challenge of providing a unifying leadership vigor to a tense atmosphere of a national organization of nearly a thousand members Convention of Philippine Baptist* Churches (CPBC) and yet keeps an appointment with destiny.
Although his birth and youth were smudge by poverty and hopelessness, he was buoyed by a new-found faith in the Person of Jesus Christ. His fellowship with Christians helped him develop a firm faith, an open mind and humane heart, thus, can readily adopt new perspective, dimension and direction in life; internalizing the teaching of Jesus that “all things are possible to him that believes.”
His ascendancy to CPBC’s presidency is not accidental, but providential, for it’s difficulty to get elected to head a convergence of over 130,000-member strong national body of people of diverse social standing, different levels of educational discipline and of numerous spiritual deepness. Lawyers, businessmen, real estate tycoon, ministers, landowners, and educators (university presidents, deans, and professors) have aspired for the position but only a few were chosen; and Rev. Llamas is one among the few.
His early ministry in a small village church to a town church; his teaching ministry and presidency of a provincial union; helped prepare him for a greater height of leadership. His election to lead and serve CPBC in this one crucial moment of its history is indeed a divine intervention.
We commend Dr. Sergio A. Rojo, Jr. for writing and publishing this mini-biography. Though Rev. Llamas “communicates well enough verbally”[WM. Paul Young, The Shack: Where Tragedy Confronts Eternity, (Newbury Park, CA: Windblown Media, 2007), 14.], he acknowledges being uncomfortable in the written form, in which Dr. Rojo lend his strength.
In the over 100-year ministry of the Philippine Baptist Churches, there are numerous life-stories of faith, commitment and leadership waiting to be put to print. Stories that can inspire and guide the upcoming generations of Christian leaders in the fellowship from the countryside to the urban centers all over the country and the world over until we come face to face with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
- Rudy Bernal, Vice President
Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches
Iloilo City
July 25, 2009
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Putting this back/story into print is an experience for the Body of Christ at work of sort. Like the physical body, all those who were involved in this project, contributed according to the role they passionately play with great and careful kindness. Those who were drawn together to this modest endeavor are all acknowledged in this space.
Rev. Jacinto B. Castillo and Mr. Edilberto E. Sta. Ana for providing Christian hospitality during my trip to Himamaylan. Eng’r. Eric Rencee A. Alindao and his beautiful wife, Debbie Balajadia-Alindao for their design collaborations (he in his magical cover design and she in her desktop charms); Pastor Wilfredo G. Faldas, II and Ms. Nancy B. Bajao for their clerical logistics; Ms. Deli A. Baclagon for her expeditious facilitation of documents from Iloilo. Mr. Fred V. Bat-og who helped me chip away from a chunk of write-ups until we see a more accurate remembrances of what have transpired in a lifeline.
Our sincere thanks go to the contributors – “Friends’ Lenses” – Pastor Nic Balinas; Mr. Wilson Guanzon; Mrs. Josette Jalando-on; Rev. Dr. Armand Kole; Ms. Sarah Leyble; Pastor Jimmy Murillo; Atty. Adoniram Pamplona; Rev. Salvador Parpa, Jr.; Rev. Ruben Tiangson; Rev. Felix P. Tingson; Rev. Aldemaro Tupas; and Mrs. Ruth V. Valencia; Mr. Llewelyn Yngson. We truly appreciate your clear lenses.
Special thanks to SARJ Schole for publishing this project and to Rev. Noel L. Luces for his keen comments on the book.
I am fond to each and everyone and I am expressing my full gratitude to you all.
Rev. Dr. Sergio “SARJ” Rojo, Jr.
Introduction
The work of ministry of the Lord Jesus is contextual. Contextual ministry is understood as permitting “Jesus to be reborn in a local culture.”[http://tinyurl.com/nukxdn] This requires stripping the Gospel of its trappings and allowing it to come alive in a way that makes sense to the people in a local community.
This book is not a contextual theology treatise at work, but an attempt of translating in print a life experience, work of the Ministry of Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr. Perhaps, his ministry experience is not strikingly exceptional, but it can offer a sense of uniqueness and serves as a resource to the ministry; nor is a case of “outliers. . . about men and women who do things that are out of ordinary,”[ Malcolm Gladwell, Outliers: The Story of Success, (New York, NY: Little, Brown, and Company, 2008), 17.], but a sustaining one that the churches needs today.
We need to understand why God has called him to His ministry. What’s about him and his brand of ministry that the Lord need in the vineyard? Llamas’s story is similarly situated in the story of Mackenzie Allen Phillips where he wanted “a narrative to help him express to them not only the depth of his love, but also to help them understand what has been going on in his inside world.”[Young, The Shack,14.] In this slim volume we explain and enflesh a contextual ministry in a back-story.
Faith Journey
The Psalmist affirms an eternal truth of faith journey when he says, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:13-14). Llamas’s life and his contextual ministry, we believe, are well-founded in this biblical truth.
It is said that everyone needs sanctuary, a place to find peace and to reflect on life. [Nancy Gibbs and Michael Duffy, The Preacher and the Presidents: Billy Graham in the White House, (New York: NY: Center Street, 2007) x.]
Himamaylan, Negros Occidental is sanctuary for Llamas. Meanwhile, in the Philippine context, “the unborn child is believed to interact both with its internal and external environment. The mother’s experiences and her desires affect the character andfuture of her unborn child.” [Raul Pertierra, Religion, Politics, and Rationality in a Philippine Community, (Quezon City, Metro Manila: Ateneo de Manila Press, 1988), 96.] So a woman claims certain “intimidatory” rights over her husband on account of her condition the moment pregnancy is diagnosed.[ Ibid.] The woman “develops cravings for unusual foods, becomes moody and demands more attention than usual from her husband,” adds Pertierra.[Ibid.] We call this pangala – a kind of intimidatory right. In this case, Goring (Arsenio’s mother), had an unusual craving for kamoteng kahoy (cassava). Ginpanamkon si Cócó sa kamoteng kahoy. [Coco was conceived out of cassava.] It is perhaps, for this reason that his arms are of cassava-tuber-like shape.
“I breathed my first breath as a boy born” [Wes Roberts in Linwood House Ministries. (http://tinyurl.com/l54x5a)] to parents, Gregoria “Goring” Gran and Arsenio “Senyong” Sr. [The older Arsenio died in 1988.] on March 20, 1952, Llamas said. The first inhalation of air “was followed by a cry for life, of sorts, and was first heard” [Roberts in Linwood House Ministries] at Sitio Nasug-ong, Barangay (village) Caradio-an, in Himamaylan, Negros Occidental. According to the elderly Goring, it was Aquilina Gran-Vallar, a paltera (midwife) and a close relative, who helped her deliver the young Arsenio right in their home. Arsenio jr. is the third in a sibling of six.
Arsenio grew up as “Coco” to family members and close relatives. The now elderly Goring used to wash clothes for the family when Coco was a toddler. While doing her laundry chores, Goring would let Coco lie down. In order for her not to be distracted, Goring would hang over Coco a calendar where pictures of a candy named as Phicoco. Coco would enjoy playing the pictures of the candy, as if he would like them. So every time, the mother Goring, would say in vernacular “Coco, ari na; ari na” (here’s Coco; short for phicoco). There goes the name Coco unto this day.
Modest Circumstances
Malcolm Gladwell notes that the story line is always the same for autobiographies of billionaires, entrepreneurs, and celebrities published every year: “our hero is born in modest circumstances and by virtue of his own grit and talents fights his way to greatness.”[ Gladwell, Outliers, 18.] He cited an example in the life of Joseph in the Bible. Though cast out by his brothers and sold to slavery, Joseph rose to prominence as Pharaoh’s right hand because of his own brilliance and insight.[Ibid. ]
Llamas was born in the midst of “poverty and chaos”[Ibid., 73] and modest context, a cast out by socio-economic standard, which is measured as extreme poverty. He had to walk kilometers of railway tracks from home to attend high school classes in search for education, without monetary provision. It was not only due to his grit and talent that made Llamas what he is now, but God in His own terms and mysterious way enabled Llamas to be a contextual vessel for His ministry.
Gladwell argues,
The people who stand before kings may look like they did it all by themselves, But in fact they are invariably the beneficiaries of hidden advantages and extra ordinary opportunities and cultural legacies that allow them to learn and work hard and make sense of the world in ways others cannot. [Gladwell, Outliers, 19.]
To our mind, it is God who destined Llamas to be what he is today.
Llamas grew up in a community where gambling is the “order of the day”. Though he was “externally religious,”[Willie, “Foreword,” in Young, The Shack, 10.] the older Arsenio was a master gambler, while employed as tax collector in the municipal government of Himamaylan.
“My exposure to the marketplace and gambling dens at my tender age, where my father was a professional gambler, had helped in molding my character. If I consider myself as a gutsy decision-maker, it’s because of my experience and exposure to the realities of life in my early age of three.”
In spite of his immersion in such environment, Coco was unique and by nature good and obedient and importantly remains vice-free. Like any young boy he took pride in running errands for the family.
Confluence of Souls
Confluence is defined as “flowing together of two or more streams, rivers, or the like.”[http://tinyurl.com/bc9o84] This can best describe the marriage of Coco and Diana. Their confluence of souls is based on the “yearning to connect with another human being in whole person ecstasy. . . a sacred gift that is frankly overwhelming in its potency.”[Mark Scandrette, “Loving-Making as Spiritual Practice,” in Godspace. (http://tinyurl.com/nm7umd).] They are separate souls but flow together in love for each other and for the Christian ministry had brought many lost souls to the Salvation of Jesus Christ which earned them the respect and love of the Christian brethren and the community.
Florence Diana Añovert hails from San Remegio, Antique in Panay Island. An alumna of the Convention Baptist Bible College (CBBC), she received her diploma in Christian Education in 1976. For a while she worked at Manalad Baptist Church and on November 26 that year, she said her marriage vow to Coco. The marriage bore them three “unusually beautiful kids”[Young, The Shack, 13.] in Greace Agape; Marlin Grace; and Leonard Norris.
His Education
Rev. Llamas got his secondary education certificate from Himamaylan High School, earned a Diploma in Theology (valedictorian) from the Convention Baptist Bible College (CBBC) in March 1977, and obtained a Bachelor of Arts (AB) degree from West Negros College, both in Bacolod City.
During his CBBC years, together with classmates Nic Balinas, Norman Gasataya, and Ronnie Luces, they formed a signing group called the Four Sharps, performing in various churches and Christian events. In his second year at CBBC, Mrs. Harriet Houston and Ms. Chita Naciongayo referred him to Mrs. Juanita Snyder-Mott for a scholarship grant. While studying at CBBC, Llamas was supported financially by Himamaylan Baptist Church and Mrs. Juanita Snyder-Mott.
After his Theological study, he decided on taking another degree course. He deemed it strategic to take Liberal Arts in political science in preparation of addressing future needs that he foresees based on observations that organization conserves and institutions capture, schematize and codify persistent patterns of activity.[Dan Hotchkiss, “The Art of Governance,” The Alban Weekly, 247. (http://tinyurl.com/n5rbud).] In that decade, organizations in Baptist churches in Negros Island made no exception to the realities cited by Dan Hotchkiss. In fact it was noted that election of officers among Baptist churches’ organizations in Negros Island were always hotly contested. In this logic, Pastor Llamas seeks to be equipped in parliamentary procedures for him to be governed by reason while participating in parliamentary processes, which were neglected by most religious fellowships.
Besides, he was also curious over the “role of faith in public life,” [Gibbs and Duffy, Preacher and Presidents, x.] and wants to understand the realms of politics and religion, how they relate with each other and become effective tools in advancing the Kingdom of God. In a way, he wanted “to put his beliefs to a tough intellectual road test.”[ Ibid., 3.]
After all, balancing the realms of politics and faith is a unique challenge. With steadiness and perseverance in his heart, he finished his Bachelor of Arts (AB) in Political Science from West Negros College (now University) in March of 1988 and later in 1993 took supplemental subjects in Secondary Education.
Ordination in Christian Ministry
After graduation from CBBC, Coco received two calls, first from a city-based Cosmopolitan Evangelical Church and second from a town-based San Enrique Evangelical Church. Coco preferred working with the later where he served in 1977-78.
His San Enrique stint was short-lived when he took issue with the church’s chairman over a donation bought out of gambling winnings in which Koko stood his ground followed by a resignation.
After San Enrique he accepted the call of Isabela Evangelical Church. It was there that he sought ordination. There are at least three major reasons why a pastor seeks ordination from the CPBC Ordination Council:
- Firstly, an ordained minister can address church’s needs that a non-ordained minister could not meet;
- Secondly, an ordained minister raises the church’s reputation in the community; and
- Thirdly, an ordained minister characterize a fuller sense of commitment to the ministry, thus providing the congregation a higher degree of spiritual security.
During the oral examination Dr. Johnny V. Gumban, aware that the Isabela Evangelical congregation splits in two, asked Llamas, “Where is God between Isabela Evangelical Church and Isabela Baptist Bible Church?”
Llamas innocently replied, “wala ko kabalo sir [I do not know, sir], I am so sorry.”
“What if almost all of your congregation members would transfer to Isabela Baptist Bible Church?” added Dr. Gumban.
“If Rev. [Teodulo] Bolneo would not agree that we both serve as pastors of the church, then I will look for another pastorate,” answered Llamas.
The Ordination Council must have discerned the humility of Llamas, that three months after, the Council informed the Isabela Evangelical Church congregation that Llamas has passed the ordination examinations.
Coco Llamas was ordained on May 28, 1981 by Isabela Evangelical Church. Ordination Speaker was the late Rev. Querico Caipang, his pastor at Himamaylan Evangelical Church who baptized him.
The Llamas family was subsisting then from a Php350 monthly stipend from the church, an amount that could hardly make both ends meet, thus they depended on God’s provisions through people in many and unique ways.
One Friday, the young family had nothing to eat and the couple was overly concerned with Greace. Meanwhile, Llamas got his broom, as he used to do, and swept the floor (second level of the parsonage). In the course of the chore, Llamas found a ten-centavo coin. The ten-centavo coin was a great material blessing to the family. Out of the money, the couple bought ginamos (salted fish) and kamote (root crop) leaves and fed Greace.
The following day, a Saturday, very early in the morning, a letter courier from the town hall came to the parsonage and delivered a letter. The letter, it turned out, contained a check for US$600 from Mrs. Mott.
It was during his work as pastor of Isabela Evangelical Church that Llamas befriended Efren Bardillo. The friendship has impacted on Bardillo so much that he changed loyalty from being a sacristan of the Roman Catholic priest in the area to became a regular worshiper at Llamas’ church. Bardillo was impressed by the lifestyle of Llamas that he painted a charcoal portrait of Coco, which hangs on the wall at the receiving area of the Goring’s house to this day.
While studying at CBBC, Llamas was supported financially by Himamaylan Baptist Church and Mrs. Juanita Snyder-Mott.
Learning Trade Skills
In the early stage of his Christian life, Coco had befriended Jorge Villavecer and Joel Arbolario. They were the ones who introduced him to the Faith after which he found himself active in church activities.
In his younger days, before entering CBBC, Llamas learned some skills in the ministry from pastors he met who have significantly influenced the development of his ministerial approaches and pastoral skills. There were three pastors, namely:
Rev. Querico Caipang – pastor of Himamaylan Baptist Church in the early 60s. Rev. Caipang baptized Arsenio Jr. on April 23, 1963.
Rev. Aldemaro Tupas – pastor of Himamaylan Baptist Church after Rev. Caipang. Llamas used to mimic the preaching style of Pastor Tupas. At the back of the Himamaylan church was a huge mango tree where Llamas used to preach to the unseen congregation using the big mango roots for pulpit. No wonder Llamas has the evangelistic zeal similar to that of Pastor Tupas.
The third personality that has significantly influence the life of Llamas was Fernando Torres. He was Pastor of Himamaylan Baptist Church in 1965 who died due to a sea accident. Torres and Llamas had a kind of Paul-Timothy relationship especially in pastoral nurturing and discipleship.
Tending the Embers
Tending the embers is to “breath gently to invite those coals to burn a touch brighter, patiently await a first leap of new flame, and only then blow with vigor to fan the spreading of fire.”[Howard E. Friend, Jr., ”Tending the Embers,” Alban Institute. (http://tinyurl.com/nhxlc4).] It is like stirring up “the fire with a stick, causing it to blow with renewed vigor.” [Young, The Shack, 39. ]
From Isabela Evangelical Church, Llamas was called to serve as pastor of Murcia Evangelical Church. He is shepherding this flock for twenty-seven years now. The ministry-work of Llamas in Murcia is a case of contextual ministry in “tending the embers.”[ Friend, ”Tending the Embers,” Alban Institute. (http://tinyurl.com/mqmkc7).]
Before accepting the pastorate at Murcia, Llamas had to check the background of the church. One common observation was, as though Llamas was trying to evade the burning coal that will eventually take him in hell. Murcia Evangelical Church appeared to be an inferior religion when Llamas and his family first arrived there in 1982. Of course, the Roman Catholic was the major religion in Murcia.
Rev. Asisclo Pico was his predecessor in Murcia. What impressed Llamas when he took over the pastorate was that a pastor must commit to the vow of extreme poverty and must agree always to the desire of the congregation, especially the officers.
Now the Murcia Evangelical Church becomes a force to reckon with in the community.
Llamas was called twice by relatively large churches in the Bacolod City area but for some reasons he declined. Foremost of these is his belief that God has called him and his family to tender a Baptist congregation in Murcia. In between his pastoral ministry, Llamas is actively involved in church-related organizations. Foremost of these, he was elected president of the Negros Kasapulanan Ministers’ Association in 1983-1985 and president of the Negros Kasapulanan of Baptist Churches in 2006-2008. After the first biennial assembly of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches and during the organizational meeting of the CPBC Board, Llamas was elected president for years 2008 to 2010.
This writer has the following account of the meeting.
On June 13, 2008 onboard Weesam Express: This is an organizational meeting for the new set of officers of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches. Members of the Board of Trustees from Negros Occidental onboard Weesam Express, 6:30AM trip from Bacolod to Iloilo are as follows: Mr. Wilson Guanzon, Outgoing president; Atty. Danilo Pedrosa; Atty. Adoniram Pamplona; Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr.; Rev. Salvador Parpa, Jr.; Rev. Noel Luces; Rev. Dr. Armando Kole; and myself.
Mr. Guanzon was the first to arrive at BREDCO. When the boat was about to leave Mr. Guanzon encouraged us to gather at the deck. There, we huddled a lot. We discussed the criteria on leading religious organization. We resolved that the one who would succeed Mr. Guanzon in CPBC would have ability to lead and loyalty and commitment to the mission of the Convention. In that one-hour trip, we in consensus to elect Rev. Llamas as next president of CPBC.
Present during the meeting at the CPBC Board room were as follows: Mr. Wilson Guanzon, outgoing president; Atty. Danilo Pedrosa; Atty. Adoniram Pamplona; Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr.; Rev. Salvador Parpa, Jr.; Rev. Noel Luces; Rev. Dr. Armando Kole; Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Fabula; Dr. Juanito Acanto; Mr. Francis Jalando-on; Rev. Edwin Lariza; Mrs. Myrna Elacio; Ms. Sharon Rose Ruiz Duremdes,; Pastor Rodolfo Bernal; Pastor RD Celeste; and myself.
The candidates for President were Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr., who got 10 votes and Dr. Juanito Acanto, who garnered 4 votes. [Dr. Acanto made a motion to cast a unanimous vote for Llamas. His his privilege speech, Dr. Acanto emphasized the value of unity among the Board members and in churches in the Convention]. Pastor Rodolfo Bernal was the lone candidate for vice president and he was voted unanimously. [From the journal writing report of Sergio A. Rojo, Jr. dated June 13, 2008.]
The consensus decision was affirmed in the organizational meeting. Llamas would serve as President of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches for two (2) years from June 2008 to May 2010.
Out of his pastoral work experiences, Llamas has learned the following realities.
When asked of his ascension to the Leadership rung of CPBC he has these to say:
“I did not ask to be a leader in a much larger organizations but God would always call me. There were teachers at CBBC who have sensed my leadership ability.
“Unconsciously, I was trained to be a leader because of my exposure to the leadership circle.
“To me, leadership is not pleasing everybody. There is always a time to make a decision. After all, indecision renders casualties to parties involved.
Out of frustration of existing leadership realities in churches and leaders group, Llamas organized groups among the young pastors. He also conceptualized the mediation group to settle dispute among the churches in the CPBC jurisdiction.
Driving Passion
Passion has something to do with following the heart by doing something which one could get energized with. Pleasing God in whatever he does and aims for, is Llamas’ driving passion. There is no static in his life especially in serving God. This passion for God drives Llamas to enjoin us to “commit ourselves to staying united, to never cease in caring for one another and bearing one another’s load, and in keeping the spirit of humility and openness, to sit down together and talk about things that will improve the way we do the work of Christ here on this particular part of our world.” [Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr., “The President speaks,” in Ang Manugbantala Herald, October-December 2008, 3.]
In his address message during the 55th Founding Anniversary and College Week celebration of Bacolod Christian College, Llamas encourages his listeners to live a life that “… madumduman kita tungod sang mga matahum ta nga hinihimoan (we can be remembered by our beautiful deeds ). He concluded his message by quoting the Apostle Paul saying, “…Let us not grow weary in what we’re doing for in due season we will reap.” [Wilfredo G. Faldas, II, in Transcript of Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr.’s Sermon during the BCCN College Week Opening Celebration on February 23, 2009.]
In a similar note, Llamas admonish CPBC folks, “to stay together with the rest in the same ship, even if the journey is long and fraught with risk and difficulties… and never abandon ship, especially when the temptation to do so is strongest.” [Llamas, “The President Speaks,” Ang Manugbantala Herald, January-March 2009, 3. ]
Nearly-tragic Experiences
Life is not all a fair day, there are times that even in a very clear day all of a sudden rain falls at a time least expected putting us in panic especially when we are caught in an open field enjoying the sunshine.
This is true to Rev. Llamas for sometime in 1983, while preaching at Dancalan First Baptist Church in a campaign spree soliciting financial support for the Negros Kasapulanan operations, suddenly Llamas suffered from synaptic nerve dysfunction forcing him to take a break, only after finishing the sermon.
On February 8, 2009, “while preaching at Murcia Evangelical Church, I felt a severe pain at the neck” as if he would die.
While working in Isabela, Llamas was sick for almost a couple of months. He was suffering from typhoid fever. Greace Agape, his eldest daughter, “would sleep beside me and yet she did not get ill.” In spite of his sickness, he would still rise up early morning and on Sundays to preach to the congregation, his way of feeding them with the Word of God.
Dr. Celso “Bording” Villanueva, Jr. a fresh graduate from medical school one day visited Isabela and learned of Llamas’s condition. Dr. Villanueva then visited and treated him and he got well. However, the sickness rendered him literally at a state of flesh and bone. When Mrs. Juanita Snyder-Mott visited him in Isabela, she was struck with pain of Llamas’s situation. Right there Mrs. Mott gave him US$600. Since then Mrs. Mott gives periodic financial support to the Llamas family for 17 years now. Mrs. Mott adopted him as a poster son.
Difficult situations would lead most often to desperation, but God would always provide Koko’s family with needful provisions every time it comes.
Humble Confessions
It is said that confession is good for the soul so it is for president Llamas. Here are some thoughts culls from his confessions.
Llamas subscribes with John Calvin’s confession and suppliant petition. It is quoted in length here.
. . . Let us turn our ears to the sound of that trumpet which even the ashes of the dead will hear in their tombs. Let us direct our thoughts and minds to that Judge who, by the mere brightness of His countenance, will disclose whatever lurks in darkness, lay open all the secrets of the human heart, and crush all the wicked by the mere breath of His mouth, and your party; our cause, supported as it is by the truth of God, sons, whose safety will be found not in defense, but in humble confession and suppliant petition; but insofar as our ministry is concerned, there is none of us who will not be able to speak for himself as follows. [Emilie Griffin, ed., John Calvin: Selection from His Writings, Foreword by Marilynne Robinson, (New York, New York: Harper Collins Publishers, 2006), 4.]
Llamas, without reservation also believe in the word of Billy Graham saying, “I didn’t have any other motives throughout my life but to proclaim the gospel.” [Gibbs and Duffy, Preacher and the Presidents, 2.]
Another belief that Llamas holds in his heart is this: “The way to transform people, a pastor would always build bridges in order to arrive at a positive human relations.” From there, Llamas trains his people and equip them to be partners in God’s ministry. Those who were trained in various areas of the ministry became leaders in their own rights. Besides, Llamas puts his whole being to the belief that a pastor must serve in the ministry and becomes a blessing, instead of being a burden.
Friends’ Lenses
Literally, a glass “can help us see things from a very, very far away.” [Johansson, The Medici Effect, 183.] The lenses here are an expression on how we would see people. In this section, let us find out how a sphere of friends would see Llamas from their own perspectives.
Pastor Nicolas M. Balinas
1974 was the year when I enrolled at the Convention Baptist Bible College, Bakyas, Mansilingan, Bacolod City. Our batch of freshmen was the largest in the college. Among my classmates is the now Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas Jr. or Koko, as we fondly called him. He was a quiet student but the smartest and talented. I could dearly remember that he always incite laughter for his jokes that entertain. Although at times a joker he has command and leadership skills to convey his thoughts to fellow students and the teachers alike. During discussions his ideas were mature. We formed a singing group called “Four Sharps” and won during literary and musical competitions at CBBC. Due to his mature manner we elected him the Student Body Organization President. After our three years schooling he graduated valedictorian.
In 1978 I was a pioneer Pastor in a mountainous barangay [village] called Old Sibukawan in Isabela, Negros Occidental and Koko was Pastor of Isabela Evangelical Church. Every time I go to Brgy. Sibukawan, I would pass by and visit him at his church. I would bring coal, sweet potatoes, and bananas but instead of receiving my gift, he puts monetary value to those items, which helped me in the work.
I learned a lot from Koko in serving the Lord and how to establish a proper direction in the ministry. I once wanted to stop my pioneering work, but the Lord used Koko to encourage me to continue pursuing this ministry amidst the difficulties which I endured. He really helped me a lot on how to be mature in many aspects of my work. Sometimes he would invite me to speak in his church at Murcia Evangelical Church.
When he was the President of Negros Kasapulanan [provincial conference] of Baptist Churches in 2006, I was the incumbent Minister of the Kasapulanan, and both of us were a team who pursued the programs of the association.
I cannot find words to describe how I know him or how to give the proper credit for this faithful servant of the Lord. But let me end with these words, Koko is my best adviser and a best friend.
Mr. Wilson D. Guanzon
I first met Rev. Arsenio Llamas in 1977. At that time, I was the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Convention Baptist Bible College (CBBC) when he received his Diploma in Theology. From there I prophesied that God would use him mightily in His Kingdom. Perhaps, my prophecy of him ushered our friendship and it just started there and I thank God for blessing me a friend such as him.
I consider Pare Seniong as a servant empowered by God’s strength with the dedication to follow the Lord’s will. With a cool demeanor to tackle the task at hand, you can rarely see him drained of will to overcome, no matter how overwhelming the task will be.
The Lord has brought him to key positions as a leader in CPBC, the Negros Kasapulanan, and the association of pastors. He has constantly shown that not only is he a very capable leader, but one who has the uprightness to pursue the dictates of the Lord and do what is right above the sea of opposition and disarray. He truly is a pillar in the leadership of our churches.
I would like to recall that during my Presidency in the Negros Kasapulanan from 1984-1987, Rev. Llamas and Rev. Felix Tingson were the leading church leaders who were a big help in my ministry and service during that time. This strengthened our friendship further and I was even given the opportunity to be the godfather of his only son, Leonard Morris Llamas.
I hope and pray that as the years go by, Pare Seniong will continue to pursue the Lord’s plans for him in his life with much zeal and enthusiasm. God bless you, my dear friend!
Mrs. Josita Alpha Gico- Jalando-on
A little over two decades ago, I got to closely know Pastor Llamas as a dynamic and promising man of God.
Through the passing of the years, I got to know him better amidst many circumstances in our church life and our institutional organizations. I came to respect and admire the inner man, the true self of Pastor Llamas.
From then on, I consider him as one of my “pastor-friends” whom I could entrust with confidential matters without doubt and hesitation. In fact we have made an agreement that on the occasion that my home-going should be ahead of his, he will give the Prayer of Comfort for my family and loved ones.
His middle initials has become one of our standing jokes, as I called him our long-lost uncle, a relationship which he has played to the fullest until the Lord solved the matter for us.
One of the special ties that bind us is our dreams for our beloved CPBC. We have spent times discussing and sharing our sentiments regarding the what-have-been and shedding some tears over lost opportunities. We have prayed together and praying with him has always been a source of comfort and strength especially when I was serving as President of the Convention Baptist Bible College, his beloved Alma Mater. He was one of the few pastors who came and prayed for me and I really appreciated it.
God in His own perfect time has given Pastor Llamas the favor he so richly deserves!
Rev. Dr. Armando S. Kole
“A Passionate Man of the Word”
I have known the Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr. as a colleague in ministry for quite some time now, and indeed knowing him as a person whose life has been surrendered to the Lord, and one whose commitment to the ministry does not falter even in trying times, is indeed inspiring and worth emulating.
For almost four decades now of faithful service to the Lord, the Rev. Llamas has exemplified in his life and ministry the meaning of servanthood in the Bible, the preeminence of the Word for the world in his preaching ministry, the essence of forbearance in difficult situations – a rare quality that is found wanting today among modern-day preachers, and the man who would stand his ground on principled philosophy in ministry regardless on who gets hurt and affected because of his personal convictions, especially on matters that have theological and socio-political bearing to the Church vis-Ã -vis the world.
As an unassuming guy and pastor of an evangelical church in Murcia, the Rev. Llamas, not to mention his rich experiences in ministry and the credentials he earned – both religious and secular – remains humble. He always makes sure that his feet still clutches to the ground. He is one guy I know who has lots to say on any subject under the sun; a man who is bifocal – the world and word are always in his thoughts, and probably this is the reason why his sermons are relevant, down to earth and very effective.
I’ve known great preachers in the past – [Rev. Salustiano] Cabahug, [Dr. Johnny] Gumban, [Rev. Ernesto] Carvajal, men who excelled in the pulpit. I am inclined to believe that Rev. Llamas’ gift in preaching can equal them. He is truly a passionate man of the word, and his preaching always bears witness to the one who is Mighty and Lord of his life and ministry – Jesus Christ!
Ms. Sarah G. Leyble
“A Pastor; A Friend”
Perhaps almost everyone knew that Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr. is the incumbent President of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches this biennium (2008-2010).
But, I guess only few know that this quiet and unassuming pastor has been a part of the efforts in making the students and graduates of the CBBC and CPU Seminary became closer. He discourage the tendency to compare and compete by closing the gap between the two schools. Graduates and students of our decade believe that there is no such thing as a “better” school; what we have are schools that prepare students to become better leaders to “pastor” the churches of the Convention.
Rev. Llamas translated this into concrete terms by becoming a member of a team that went around our churches promoting both schools’ theological education program and a kind of pastoral training that meets that needs of our churches, and at the same time inviting, challenging, and encouraging young persons to enroll in the school of their choice to become pastors themselves.
That was in the mid-70’s, when CBBC and CPU Seminary had a joint summer program involving faculty members and students—Faculty Involvement Summer Program. It was like the usual Gospel Team, but this one has a faculty member from the theological school went with the team. I was in a team with “Coco”. I was then studying at CPU Seminary and Coco with CBBC. We were organized into teams, underwent an orientation, and it was then up to us to get to know each other better while already in the team, and sent off to specific church assignments. We hopped from one church to another lugging our suitcases and box of materials.
Travel and accommodations those times were not comfortable as today. But difficulties were coupled with fun and excitement for the experience. We were bonded together in that team by our common calling—to be pastors thus, giving the best in us wherever and whenever God wants us to be. Coco served as leader of our group. He was a natural leader who can relate with all kinds of personality, simply because he doesn’t put a label to a person. His openness and non-judgmental attitude makes it easy for people to approach him, be it for any kind of help for that matter, or to deliver a sermon or reflection. He was, in fact, our designated “manugwali”(preacher) in the team, mainly because he does not refuse a request to preach, any time.
Coco is soft-spoken, quiet and unassuming, diligent in study and preparation for whatever he wants to do. To me, Coco is indeed an embodiment of the pastor our theological schools hope to produce. That summer program planted the seed in the hearts of our youth in those churches, and in turn, a number have decided to respond to God’s call to become pastors. I am of belief that our team, with Coco in the lead, was instrumental in their decision, and helped build good relationship between the aforesaid theological institutions. A testimony to this claim is our friendship that has remained strong through the years.
July 2009
Jaro, Iloilo City
Pastor Jimmy S. Murillo
To be a man of God is God’s gift. Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr. the incumbent President of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches was my schoolmate at CBBC in 1975-1976, our senior for two years.
Personally, I know him because he is my sister Shirley’s best friend and classmate in the seminary. He called me “migo”, meaning friend ever since atc CBBC. He is low a profile and humble servant of God.
Rev. Llamas was among the outstanding students at that time. A potential leader, he became the Student Body Organization President. He has served as Pastor of my home Church, the San Enrique Evangelical Church. A good preacher and evangelist, he easily won the sympathy of our Church members. In his term as Pastor, our Church members were actively involved in church activities and programs, our congregation became the “salt and light” of our community. “Migo” Coco is a good administrator; a dedicated and committed servant of God; sincere and frank because he expresses appropriately what he felt. No wonder God make him our CPBC president.
We member-churches are expecting him to run the CPBC in the Godly foundations as mandated by Christ. I hope and pray that the seeming gaps among our leaders Rev. Llamas may be able to fill in. Since Rev. Llamas is a man of reconciliation and positive thinker, he will make objective decisions. I also hope that there will be unity in the work of CPBC through his leadership.
Congratulations “migo”! You are truly a Man of God.
Atty. Adoniram P. Pamplona
He could have been anyone and anything. Possessed of a commanding personality, eloquent speech and a sharp mind, Pastor Arsenio Llamas would have succeeded in any endeavor he pursues. Given his personality and eloquence he could have aspired for an elective public position and would have served that position with distinction.
Indeed he was a successful businessman in Isabela, prospering in such a short time. But he gave up that business when he found that it became an impediment in his Ministry.
He prospered beyond his expectations in sugarcane farming in Murcia adding to his acreage year after year until it reached the point where it competed with his Ministry. Then again at the height of his success in this field, he gave it up.
Some find refuge in the Ministry after suffering failure in other fields. Pastor Llamas found his sanctuary in the Ministry after enjoying in other fields.
It inspires and encourages us beyond words to find one so talented but still in the Ministry despite the tantalizing call of other fields. He has chosen the best and has given it his all.
Rev. Salvador L. Parpa, Jr.
A Man of Few Words!
I knew Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas Jr. as a man of few words but his life and works speak a lot of commendable things.
Though a graduate of a relatively small Theological School but produces ministers and workers that occupy more than 80% of the member-churches and other strategic position in other related institution of our Convention [CPBC], it is a fact that Rev. Llamas is the first CBBC graduate to hold the Presidency of the Convention, the highest position in the leadership rung of our organization.
I fondly call him Migo Senyong. Mahipos pero maka prinsipyo nga alagad sang Dios kag handa mag risgo para sa kawsa sang Gino-o (Silent but a principled worker of God and always prepared to risk for the cause of the Lord), so much so that he is often misunderstood by others. Because of his integrity and God-given talent, he finds favor to many.
As a family man, he is faithful husband to his wife, Bebing Diana, and a well-respected father to his three children. Above all else, Rev. Llamas is a well-loved pastor of Murcia Evangelical Church for more than 20 years.
To my Amigo kag masig kaalagad sa Gino-o (To my friend and co-worker in the Lord), always remember Hebrews 6:10, “God is not unjust, he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
MISPAH – Bebot, Bebing and Children
Rev. Ruben C. Tiangson
God has His own way of preparing His servant to be used in His Kingdom building today. One might call it destiny, good luck or a charted course. No doubt however, it is a heavenly call for one who joins the ranks of willing and faithful servants of God. In charting the course of his life we found Rev. Arsenio Llamas, Jr. not an extraordinary man, but a simple and ordinary person with an extra ordinary heart fully surrendered to his Maker. Like the prophet Isaiah, Rev. Llamas was confronted by a true and living God, which in turn changed his social, economic, and emotional status into a person God wanted him to be.
His gift of making the word of God alive in his preaching is astounding. His eloquence in delivery, imaginative in his presentation and down to earth in his illustrations makes his preaching full of conviction. Pastor Llamas’ love for justice makes him sensitive to the plight of the outcast, the abandoned and neglected. For him life means touching the lives of people and pointing them to the Savior Jesus Christ.
Rev. Llamas, a man planted as a seed and now a tree, continues to commit his life as a teacher, pastor, friend, mentor and leader. From his family to his local congregation, the Negros Kasapulanan of Baptist Churches and the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches, Rev. Llamas leads all the way for God’s Greatest glory!
Rev. Felix P. Tingson
It is an honor for me to be able to participate and give my personal thoughts on Rev. Arsenio Llamas.
I have known him since school days at the Convention Baptist Bible College, and we keep in touch even when distance kept us apart in different places, but working for the same goal – that of the servant of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ are meant for. I have known him to be faithful in his service to our Lord. He has served his church and the community well.
I am sure, he could have pastor some big city churches and involved well in the secular field if he so desire, but his passion for the lost, and his love for the church members has made him stay all these years in this village but wonderful church. He has shown himself to be a worker in the vineyard worthy of his calling. I have known his personality to have integrity, depth, intelligence, and good humor.
What a privilege to know him not only as a co-worker in the vineyard but also as a friend.
Rev. Aldemaro E. Tupas
Arsenio, as a young man, showed wisdom in most of his actions. He was very conscientious in doing things, especially in the works of the Ministry.
In the church, he was one of the very active young people particularly in the choir. Only now I realized that my pastoral work in Himamaylan had significant impact to Arsenio and his ministry. I thank the Lord God for being part of this great man of God – Arsenio Llamas Jr.
Mrs. Ruth V. Valencia
“A Common Place Where Life Makes a Beautiful Whole”
There was a task needing to be done. Someone was needed to do it. The master looked for someone. He found His man ready, willing, and faithful. That man was Arsenio Llamas Jr. He was the right man in the right place at the right time; God used him. See the outcome? He became President of the Convention of the Philippine Baptist Churches.
Coco, as we fondly call him back home in Himamaylan, is one of the most inspiring patterns of Christian godliness have known. A very ordinary man who lived a really out-of-the-ordinary way of life. The ordinary life is often the most difficult because it has the fewest outward stimulants and therefore requires a deeper and steadier faith within the heart. But that is our dear Coco. Quiet, deep but ready and faithful. Soft spoken but his voice when in the pulpit booms and challenges you to stay awake and alert.
I am personally touched by his faithfulness. In his obedience to God’s ministry, there shines three beauteous things: his kind minister and devotedness to his work mark his readiness. His willingness is marked by his obedience concerning time, place and result. As to his faithfulness, we can see his Christian love, loyalty and humility. To me he is the kind of servant God always uses.
So mark this man. Let the beautiful way which is Christ used this ordinary man give such solid comfort to cause us to resolve on fuller loyalty to our heavenly Father in the days ahead so that the daily common task will be transfigured and will make a beautiful whole.
That is Arsenio Llamas Jr.!
Mr. Llewelyn P. Yngson
A man of virtue that represents the profound example of a servant of God unflinchingly committed in service for His ministry. These words cannot simply fathom the depth of his character.
I know Rev. Llamas as a person who centers himself as a committed servant in the ministry. Having served the Lord for more than 30 years, this is a sheer sign that he is truly called to be God’s servant. In the breadth of his service he has brought many to the loving salvation of our Lord Jesus Christ and led the sheep of God’s flock through storms that may drain us of strength but may never stop him.
Having faithfully served God as a pastor and leader for both the Negros Kasapulanan and the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches, I can say that he is one contemporary leader that God calls to bring about stability in troubled times. Having been brought to the Presidency of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches is indeed a great honor and at the same time a duty that may seem daunting, yet with God’s strength and Rev. Llamas’ faith and determination, he has hovered the waves of challenges and has come about evermore devoted to pursue the Lord’s work.
As a short perspective on Rev. Llamas, I hope that I may have given you a concise yet informative glimpse of a man that is truly dedicated in service of the Lord.
Conclusion
“Life is a process, not a result… a journey and not a destination”. [Matt Biondi, “Foreword: Thriving for Success,” in Toxic Success: How to Stop Striving and Start Thriving, (Makawao, Maui, HI: Inner Ocean Publishing, 2002), xiii.] So with faith in God. Like Jimmy Carter, Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas’ “faith is a source of strength and comfort to me.” [Jimmy Carter, “Losing My Faith for Equality,” in Godspace. (http://tinyurl.com/nbtrvk).] While Carter’s Christian faith is manifested in his being a deacon and a Bible teacher for many years, Coco expresses his faith in a ministry context, especially in pastoral work. His is a work in progress. We earnestly pray that God will sustain him, his family and the ministry he is committed to. God’s abiding grace be upon those whom Llamas will continue touching with His love.
POSTSCRIPT
Rev. Arsenio G. Llamas, Jr. is invited to address the annual conference of the ABC-USA in New Jersey this September 2009. July 24, 2009 was “D-Day” God-sent for him. With no substantial documents except for the letter of invitation from Rev. Felix Tingson, president of ABC-New Jersey, and certifications from the CPBC and Bacolod Christian College, Llamas with his guest # 210, queued at Window #5 for his 7 o’clock AM interview at the American embassy in Manila. There, the US Consul tells Llamas in Tagalog vernacular that his visa to travel to the USA has been approved. Upon learning of the approval, the first phrases that Llamas uttered, “Thank you very much, Sir and Praise the Lord.”
About the Biographer
SERGIO A. ROJO, JR. (most people call him, Sarj), is an ordained Baptist minister cum educator with a doctorate degree from Bakke Graduate University in Seattle, the USA. Sarj now serves as Executive Minister of Salts Community Chapel; Director of SARJ Schole; and President of Bacolod Christian College.
In 2007, Sarj edited a book, Wilson D. Guanzon: A Relational Life. Mr. Guanzon had served twice the presidency of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches.
Sarj and his wife, Timmy, live in Escalante City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. with their five children: Jun-Jun; Tim-Tim; Jates; Taj; and PTh.
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1 CommentFiled under SARJ Rojo
1 Comment
sarjschole
December 12, 2009 at 5:34 am
Kindly forward to my e-mail ad your contact numbers here in the Philippines. Thank you
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