Feature

What does a dynamic, faithful and self- sacrificing under-shepherd deserve? No dictionary could ever define and describe the power and strength underlying the veins of the late Rev. Bien O. Abante, Sr., the great pastor of the Lighthouse Bible Baptist Church, Tatalon and a loving “Tatay” not only to his family but also to the whole MBBC body.

Being among the first results of the ministry of Frank Hooge,the BBF pioneering missionary to the Philippines, God called Tatay to be the Associate Pastor of the Bible Baptist Church of Sta. Mesa. Having got saved in 1949, he didn’t have any doubts but to follow God’s will and he went into the ministry in 1953. He was used mightily in affecting and building lives in the said church. He then assumed the presidency of the Bible Baptist Fellowship International that he tailored into a fellowship for Philippine aculturization having an emphasis on the Filipino pastoral leadership. His ministries, through God’s providence, grew successfully despite the heartaches and trials along the way as more as more preachers were brought about through them. He showed no inconsistency, no wavering of character but continued to be firm until his very last days.

Tatay’s three sons reflect his personality – his faith, virtues, and sense of leadership. What products would you expect from a soldier of Christ? Absolutely, men of God themselves as well, namely; Dr. Benny M. Abante, Jr., Pastor of the Metropolitan Bible Baptist Church – Sta. Ana, and now the Senior Pastor of the whole family; Dr. Hernes M. Abante, Pastor of the International Bible Baptist Church, California, USA, and Pastor Reuben M. Abante, who now assumes the responsibility of ministering the 24-year old Lighthouse Bible Baptist Church that Tatay started.

“Church…we ought to be more determined to see the fulfillment of our own church…for as long as we avail ourselves in the service of God, we can always expect that He will give us the strength.” These are but just a few powerful words from Tatay’s last pulpit stand. It is very heart-warning to know that even if he was physically weak by that time, he can still afford to inspire and encourage people for God’s work, ignoring his own pain, but standing for the Lord for “it takes only death to silence the preacher,” as he himself put it.

What does a dynamic, faithful and self - sacrificing under shepherd deserve? Yes, God answered it. He promoted Tatay to heaven, away from life’s uncertainties and difficulties. He probably said that Tatay has done enough greatness and goodness on the face of this earth which is undeniably true. He “had fought a good fight”. He has finished his course and he had kept the faith.

His legacy of godliness and leadership truly left its mark, still new and fresh. It won’t surely fade away, as long as there are people who appreciate and emulate him, so long as we are all there. This man’s exemplary character and fatherly image will not be forgotten. It is to be loved forever, till we all get there. To our beloved bishop, a great steward of God, an old warrior of the cross as they call him, we salute you. We want to extend to the highest heavens our deepest gratitude and warm love for you for influencing our lives and our whole being.