A year ago Girly Aguirre was on her way from Bago to Kuwait to be a domestic helper. Her family was in severe poverty, sometimes without a meal on the table. Her husband, Pastor Nonoy would have to stay home to watch their two children (Girly-7 and Joshua-6). She got as far as Manila before her plans were halted. For some reason, she was not able to leave for Kuwait. During this time God spoke to her and told her that she belonged back home with her family. Girly was humbled and returned home to her family.
“We have suffered hard-ups, but the Lord said He would provide meals for us, and since that time He always has.”
During those hard times they have had to venture down to the sea to try to find crabs, shrimp, or fish. Girly did not tell their friends Nining and Analy what struggles her family was going through, but they willingly helped sell the seafood without question.
“I just prayed; we all prayed.”
Pastor Nonoy, Sister Girly, Joshua, and Girly Aguirre
I have never witnessed such humility. Girly left her family in Mindanao to marry Nonoy. She and her husband then left their comfortable life in Manila for a hard life of serving the Lord through church planting in Bago. It has not been easy at all. They have struggled financially the entire time. At points, Pastor Aguirre’s family cannot afford a month’s transportation to and from school for their two children; a cost comparative to three drinks from Starbucks. Likewise, one year’s tuition for their two children compares roughly to the cost of dinner for six at the Olive Garden. These are the things we take for granted.
Girly recognizes the importance of her husband’s calling. More importantly, she recognizes the importance of her own calling—to stay with her family and be a part of the evangelism and local ministry. Most recently they have experienced their home being stoned by people persecuting them for what they believe. People that they have helped provide food and medical care to have turned on them. Despite the hardships, despite the persecution, despite not always having food on the table or being able to give an education to their children, Girly presses on. She knows her true reward is in heaven, and she will do whatever God’s will is for her on earth.
