Called by Grace
Grace is a gift from God that we receive not because we are worthy, but in spite of our flaws and limitations. When we encounter God’s grace, it leaves a lasting impact—often changing the course of our lives forever. It arrives at the Lord’s appointed time, even when we least expect it.
Such is the testimony of our dear sister and elder, Johna Ting. Her life is a powerful reminder that God’s grace overflows toward those who serve Him faithfully. Regardless of our background or where in the world we may be, the Lord’s kindness will find us when we walk in obedience.
A Life Changed by the Truth
In 2008, Elder Johna and her husband, Brother Teo Ting, became devoted believers in the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch), attending the local church in Sampaloc, Manila.
Raised in a non-Christian environment, Elder Johna never imagined herself following Christ. But through the consistent and heartfelt preaching of Pastor Joel Dula, then a Bible student, her heart was drawn toward the truth.
On September 28, 2008, she attended a worship service where Bishop Osie Quillao preached about the Second Coming of Christ and Being a Good Steward of God’s Household. Moved by the message and the presence of the Holy Spirit, she responded to the altar call, accepted Christ, and was baptized. She immediately shared her joy with her husband over the phone.
The Call to Serve
In 2012, after a morning devotion, Presbyter Mona Quillao approached Elder Johna about being recommended as an elder. Though she felt the weight of the responsibility, she didn’t hesitate and brought the matter to God in prayer.
With her husband’s full support, the couple continued to serve side by side. In 2016, Brother Teo began a volunteer basketball coaching ministry for youth in Balingasa. Their outreach quickly grew, and soon they were bringing three vans full of young people to the Sampaloc church every Sunday. After every session, Brother Teo shared the Word of God.
Seeing the need for a closer place of worship, the couple began to pray.
“If it’s God’s will, let’s pray for our own chapel—even if it’s just a simple one.” — Elder Johna Ting
And God answered.
The Birth of Grace Locale
In April 2022, under the Reaching Regions Beyond program of Apostle Arsenio T. Ferriol, the ministry in Balingasa was officially launched. With the full support of Bishop Osie and Presbyter Mona Quillao, the Tings continued with renewed purpose.
“Being an elder is a gift from God, so we made a vow to be faithful in what was entrusted to us. Our life is not extravagant, but when it comes to God’s work, we give everything we can. That became our motto—‘Less of me, less of us, more for God.’” — Elder Johna Ting
The journey wasn’t easy. They encountered various challenges—from legal and utility issues to property disputes. At one point, Brother Teo was called to the barangay due to a right-of-way conflict. But through prayer and diplomacy, God turned things around. One barangay official even became a believer, and tensions with local tricycle drivers were peacefully resolved.
A Growing Work of God
By April 2023, the PMCC (4th Watch) Grace Locale had grown stronger under the leadership of Pastor Gladys Quillao-Rubonal and Pastor Christian Rubonal. Through evangelistic efforts like the Home Free Global Crusade led by Apostle Jonathan S. Ferriol, more souls were reached and added to the faith.
While Brother Teo continued his sports ministry, Elder Johna shared the gospel through her business, handing out The Word (now Surer Word) magazine to her customers.
“Wherever your work is, that’s your mission field. It shouldn’t be just business. The Word of God must go with it.” — Elder Johna Ting
Pastor Gladys shared:
“I honor our leaders—the Apostle and his coworkers. What’s admirable is how they lead by example in evangelism. With the help of Pastor Annie, Pastor Mario, Elder Charito, and Elder Jojo, the church grew stronger. They never judged people by their status, but rather valued every soul’s salvation. Their unity and sincerity were truly remarkable.”
A Legacy of Service
For Elder Johna and Brother Teo, serving God is their joy. Their greatest inspiration is the life of Apostle Arsenio T. Ferriol, who not only teaches but lives what he preaches.
They also look up to Bishop Osie and Presbyter Mona—true servant-leaders who embody selfless love and sacrifice. The work in PMCC (4th Watch) Grace continues to grow through God’s faithfulness.
“First and foremost, we must dedicate our lives to the Lord. If we give Him everything—our time, talents, and resources—He will always be with us. Everything we have comes from Him. As elders, we must be good examples to everyone in the church.” — Elder Johna Ting
“The reason this local church is called Grace is not just because it’s near Grace Village. It’s because we experienced God’s grace as a family. He saw our hearts and gave us the privilege of true ministry.” — Brother Teo Ting