JIA Beginnings

“Do you not say, four months more then the harvest? I tell you open your eyes and look at the fields, they are ripe for harvest!” Thus, were the words implanted in the heart of Bro. Ben B. Baluyot, a lawyer professor, who was burning with burden for the lost souls. Faithfully, he spent the last five minutes of his class hours in sharing the Gospel to his students at the Philippine College of Commerce (now Polytechnic University of the Philippines ).

In July 1975, one sunny day, while the CPA reviewees who comprised the first fruits of JIA were singing… 'The King is coming…'. God's presence just powerfully filled the atmosphere. Then in a little while, there was violence. A lady reviewee, possessed with the evil spirit, started to distract the gathering with her groaning and shouting. There was fear in the place until Bro. Ben Yu, co-founder/missionary, casted out the disturbing spirits in the mighty name of Jesus. And the power of God was manifested as the sister was delivered. This paved the way for more believers and marked the beginning of commitment among the converts. Everyone was in awe of God's miracle and hungered for more of His words. Together, the two Bens teamed up to feed the longing hearts. Bible studies and prayer meetings became regular scenarios then.

The reviewee was long over. Most converts were employed. But the need to be strengthened and grow spiritually remained. So, the young professionals continued to meet at Rizal Park , rain or shine for fellowship. This went on for over a year and during one of their prayer meetings in November, 1976 , Revelation 1:8 “I am He that liveth and was dead, and behold I am alive forevermore.” gave a blessed identity to the group. Thus the young church was christened as JESUS IS ALIVE COMMUNITY and for decades now JESUS still remains as the Head of this church.

As a result of the changes in fellowship venues, many people had the opportunity to know more about Jesus and accept Him as their Lord and Saviour.

The Exodus 1975 – Philippine College of Commerce (now PUP) Review Center 1976 – The Christian Renewal Center , Quezon City 1977 – JIA Review Center , Recto, Manila 1977 – GM Review Center (in front of UE) Recto, Manila 1977-79 – National Mental Hospital , Mandaluyong, Metro Manila 1979 – SSS Ramon Magsaysay Hall, Quezon City 1979 – Lungsod Ng Kabataan Hospital, Quezon City 1980-81 – D & E Restaurant (now Jollibee) Roces Avenue , Q.C. 1981-86 – V. Avena Building , España, Manila 1986 #37 D. Tuazon Street , Galas, Quezon City   Present #37 D. Tuazon Street, Galas, Quezon City