The Light and Life Bible College (LLBC) was born in the jungles of Bunawan, Agusan del Sur, Philippines, with a vision that still burns brightly today. Established in 1955 by Free Methodist missionaries, classes opened on the ground floor of the missionary’s residence, transferring to a location in Butuan City in 1957. The founding goals were simple yet profound: to coordinate academic training with practical experience, and to bring students closer to their own people. These principles shaped not only the institution but also the lives of those who passed through its doors – including Pastor Helri Caadan.
Pastor Helri shares his experience:
During my time at LLBC, these goals were not just ideals – they were lived realities. Weekend church ministries were strongly encouraged, if not required, for all students beyond their first year. These ministries became the outlet for the biblical truths students absorbed during the week. The balance of theory and practice was not just academic – it was transformational.
LLBC’s mission is “to equip men and women in the disciplines of ministries through biblically centered, theologically founded and missionally oriented education.” LLBC training helped me look at ministry through the Scriptures. This helped separate “church activities” from those things that seek to transform lives into deeper connection with God. I became not just mission-minded but missional – learning to sense where God is already at work and joining Him there.
The most valuable aspect of my education was the biblical discipline that deepened my faith and guided both personal and ministry decisions. It helped me answer the question, “Why am I doing what I am doing?” and led me to obey God’s desires as revealed in Scripture.
One of the most meaningful experiences at LLBC was finding a mentor in the Rev. Ronilo Bating, our school president. His wisdom – shared both in class and in casual conversations – shaped my understanding of life, ministry and relationships. I now aspire to be that mentor for someone else.
After LLBC, Helri pursued a Master of Divinity in biblical studies at Asia Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary. He has served roles as an associate pastor and lead pastor in the Philippines, and now he and his wife serve as international missionaries in an Asia creative access country, where they are planting house churches and training leaders through the Gethsemane Leadership Training program.
Helri says, “LLBC lit the path, and by God’s grace, we continue to walk in its light.”
Light and Life Bible College was accredited by the Philippine Association of Bible and Theological Schools in 1985. As of 2025, the school has produced 660 graduates who are active ministers, missionaries and workers for the Kingdom.
