Lord, Give Us This Mountain
Companion Book · Kevin's Recollections
From Lancaster County PA to Malvar Street Baguio City Philippines
Engle · Robson · Leonard · Haines
Ken and Mary Lou Engle · An Engle Family History
Kevin's Recollections
Kevin Engle · in his own words
- Stewards Foundation3
- How It Began4
- Monday Flights to Chicago6
- From Interim to Executive Director7
- Caring for Those Who Serve9
- Building Places to Worship10
- Bringing the Work to Texas11
- Side by Side with Cheryl13
- Good Order and Good Fellowship15
- Reaching Out17
- An Honor from the State of Texas18
- Looking Back19
- In Dad's Own Words20
- In Dad's Own Words20
- The War Years22
- Chicago, Courtship and the Call26
- Manila and Binangonan28
- Give Us This Mountain38
- A Kansas Furlough50
- Back to the Mountain54
- Home to Abilene60
- Dad and Kevin: A Chronology76
- Sources80
- Growing Up in the Philippines81
- The Bicycle Adventure (1968)83
- Anchors Aweigh84
- Jud Fry85
- Best Actor of the Year87
- The Gate at Subic88
- Armed Forces Day89
- When I Asked Cheryl to Marry Me90
- Companion Books91
Stewards Foundation
Wheaton, Illinois, and Addison, Texas · 1986–2010
Updated 11 October 2026
How It Began
Kevin Engle's connection with Stewards Foundation began years before he ever worked there. By 1986 he had developed a strong interest in the organization and in the work it did for the assemblies, and he began asking questions of its trustees, officers and staff. He wanted to understand how a ministry that served so many local churches was run, and how it might serve them better.
That interest came to a turning point in the spring of 1994. Barry Mahloy, then president of the Foundation, approached Kevin and asked whether he would step in as interim Executive Director. Kevin said yes. His service is dated from April 25, 1994, and on April 26 the board wrote to assemblies and commended workers across the country to welcome him in his new role.
The Office on West Willow
Monday Flights to Chicago
There was one complication: the Foundation's office was in Wheaton, Illinois, and Kevin was living in Texas. So for the first stretch of his service he commuted. Every Monday morning he boarded a Midway Airlines flight from Dallas to Chicago Midway, a Fokker 100 with about ninety seats, and every Friday he flew home again. During the week he rented a basement apartment near Wheaton College, a few minutes from the office on West Willow Avenue.
It was a demanding rhythm, but the work did not wait. On May 9, 1994, at his first board meeting, the trustees unanimously elected him corporate Secretary and placed his name on all of the Foundation's bank and investment accounts. That same day the board approved two church building loans, one for a fellowship in Stafford, Texas, and one for a chapel in Wichita, Kansas. Kevin also inherited a small, loyal Wheaton staff, including Audrey Ham, whom he later called "my able assistant and right arm." Within months he had added two more employees, and by August he could report to the trustees that the new help had significantly boosted the office's output.
From Interim to Executive Director
On April 24, 1995, the board voted unanimously to make Kevin's appointment permanent. In August 1995 his wife, Cheryl, left Texas and moved north to join him, and the two of them rented a house in Wheaton. The Monday flights were over. From then on Kevin and Cheryl faced the work together, and Wheaton became home for the next several years.
Kevin would go on to serve as Executive Director for sixteen years, from 1994 to 2010, and as the Foundation's corporate Secretary for that entire time.
Executive Director
Caring for Those Who Serve
One of the Foundation's most important ministries under Kevin was its care for commended workers, the full-time servants of the Lord sent out from the assemblies. Beginning January 1, 1996, the Foundation's health program was reorganized as a system of healthcare gifts, and Kevin built and ran it. By 2003 the board's ten-year review could report that a great deal of help had been given for health care over the decade, while the Foundation's fund balance was maintained and its administrative costs had come down. For many missionaries and evangelists, those gifts meant that a hospital stay or a chronic illness did not have to mean the end of their work.
Building Places to Worship
The Foundation's other great purpose was helping assemblies build and improve their meeting places through church loans. Kevin oversaw that loan program throughout his tenure, from the first approvals at his very first board meeting to the busy years near the end. Loans went to assemblies large and small, from Michigan and Maryland to North Carolina and Texas. The program grew steadily, and in 2009 alone thirteen loans were either made or in construction draw. Behind each one was a congregation with a new chapel, an expanded meeting hall, or a building finally made safe and sound.
Bringing the Work to Texas
At the fall 1997 board meeting in Oklahoma City, the full board voted to move the Foundation's office to the Dallas–Fort Worth area, and Kevin was given the authority to choose the location. He chose Addison. The Wheaton building on West Willow Avenue was sold in early 1998, well above its appraisal, and the moving van pulled away in April 1998. The Foundation received its Texas Certificate of Authority on May 28, 1998, and opened its new office on Midway Road in Addison, where it remained for the rest of Kevin's tenure. The board also set aside a reserve toward a future building of its own.
Cheryl was at the heart of that move. In December 1997 the board brought her on as Transition Manager, and she helped carry the office through the sale of the Wheaton building, the packing and the long move south, and the setting up of the new office in Addison. When the Wheaton staff chose not to relocate, it was Kevin and Cheryl who rebuilt the office in Texas from the ground up.
Oklahoma City, 1997
Side by Side with Cheryl
No account of Kevin's years at Stewards Foundation is complete without Cheryl. She was not a footnote to the work; she was at the center of it. Board members and friends often told the Engles some version of the same thing: "Oh, I could never work with my spouse." Kevin and Cheryl did, together day and night, for more than twelve years.
Cheryl began by volunteering in the office in December 1996, giving her first year without pay. After that the board hired her, and she became the Foundation's office manager, later titled Administrative Manager. She was responsible for the overall operation of the office. She managed the board meetings and put together all of the board material, the agendas, enclosures and meeting books the trustees depended on. She also supervised the accountant, oversaw the databases, and served as the point person for the entire loan process. The board's compensation committee took note of her "substantially more responsibility."
For most of those years the Foundation ran with a remarkably small staff of two or three people. For about seven months in 2004 and 2005, while the accountant position was vacant, Kevin and Cheryl carried the whole office between the two of them.
Kevin cannot speak highly enough of what she did. Much of what the Foundation accomplished in those years, it accomplished because Cheryl was running the office.
Kevin and Cheryl
Good Order and Good Fellowship
As corporate Secretary, Kevin wrote and signed the minutes of every board and members' meeting, while Cheryl managed the meetings and prepared the board material. He also helped give the Foundation sound structure: written job descriptions, a compensation committee, a conflict of interest policy, a confidentiality agreement, and an investment policy. He brought the office into the computer age, setting up databases and writing procedures so the work could be done carefully and consistently.
He also made a point of taking the board to the assemblies. Meetings rotated around the country, to Orlando, Chicago, Warwick in Rhode Island, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Seattle, Charleston, Detroit, South San Francisco and Richmond, and the trustees were encouraged to spend meeting Sundays in fellowship with a local assembly.
Guests from Singapore
Reaching Out
In September 2006 he and the Foundation's president, Ken Hampton, presented "The Next 5 Years," a plan to guide the Foundation's investments, healthcare gifts and growth through 2011. In 2007 he led a survey of the member assemblies that drew 260 responses, and in 2008 he began a DVD project telling the Foundation's story.
An Honor from the State of Texas
On April 25, 2004, Kevin reached his tenth anniversary as Executive Director. A few weeks later, on May 11, 2004, the Texas House of Representatives adopted House Resolution No. 109, paying tribute to Kevin on the occasion of that anniversary and noting that the Foundation, under his leadership, had recently relocated to Texas.
Looking Back
Kevin's service at Stewards Foundation concluded in 2010, after sixteen years. Over that time he commuted, relocated twice, and moved an entire organization halfway across the country. For most of those years Cheryl was beside him, and together they kept a small office serving assemblies and missionaries from coast to coast.
From Kevin's own recollections, written October 2026.
In Dad's Own Words
Ken Engle, in his diaries, letters and articles · 1943–2009
Updated 12 October 2026
In Dad's Own Words
Ken Engle wrote nearly every day of his adult life: diaries, letters to the churches that prayed for him, prayer letters, articles about the radio work. This chapter gathers what he said, in his own words, from the war years to his last years in Abilene, in the order he said it.
Under each quotation is what it was (a diary entry, a letter and to whom, an article) and when he wrote it. Where the series tells the story more fully, a link takes you there.
The quotations marked About Kevin, shaded blue, are the things Dad wrote about Kevin. A chronology of Dad and Kevin closes the chapter.
The spelling and punctuation are Dad's own.
The War Years
1943–1945
It is discipline and more discipline. … The Army is a tough life but I like it. I feel that the Lord has a place for me.
Letter to Grandpa and Grandma · 22 September 1943
They asked me as to whether I was a conscious objector (spelled wrong but time is flying) to killing in defense of the nation. I told him I was not.
Letter to the folks · 5 October 1943
Today the fellows brought back the "Life" magazine. They think my Mother pretty good looking.
Letter home · 13 February 1944
he looked at me and grinned and said. "What ever made you want to fly"? … My troubles are these – too tense, afraid and slow well what more could be wrong – Why did I ever get in this Air Corps.
Letter home · 14 March 1944
The War Years, continued
First however I guess I had better tell you the worst. I am no longer on my way toward being a pilot, navigator, or bombardier. … My instructor said I could make pilot if I wanted to. … Yes March 31 was a great day but Oh April 1st.
Letter to the folks · 1 April 1944
Here's the way I feel. Its a place where I know I'll be helping win the war. I'm no better than anyone else so that's where I'll be if they put me there. The Lord can take care of me just as well in a gun turret as in any other position.
Letter home · 22 April 1944
My crew is #243. … I believe the Lord is giving me a great crew. I'm really going to need His help as never before in the next few weeks.
Letter home · 11 August 1944
I went up and found that I was to fly a while. So for the next 20 minutes (approx.) I had the controls quite a bit of the time. … I flipped her way over on the side and around we went. … I'm having the time of my life I only hope I can get to fly that 24 some more.
Letter home · 28 September 1944
The War Years, continued
P.S. Please pray that the Lord will prepare me for combat physically, mentally, spiritually etc. (In all ways)
Letter to his mother · 7 November 1944
When a person's above the clouds there with only water below you realize even more how much your dependent on God.
Letter home · 24 November 1944
Today we went on first strike at the enemy. Wawak! Our target was a supply road. We were lead ship so I really got a view of it all. No flak No Zeros. … The Red Cross was there with grapefruit juice.
Letter to his dad · 17 December 1944
Hello from Jolly Rogers! … I'm sure hoping and praying that we may get the victory soon. I'm getting tired of this war and don't care who knows it.
Letter to his dad · 28 December 1944
New Year's over and first mission completed. … We hit the Philippines. … Over the target I was eating life savers one right after the other. I had them stocked on my toggle switched.
Letter to Keith · 3 January 1945
The War Years, continued
There under the celleloid was my Captain my kid brother (grinning from ear into ear) Mom and my two sis'es and Dad standing on the new porch with his hands in his pockets You can imagine how I felt. (home sick)
Letter home · 10 February 1945
Often I've been in the "valley of the shadow of death" but He says "Fear not" and I have nothing to worry about. About the worst wound so far is a mosquito bite.
Letter to Keith · 15 February 1945
We completed a rough mission over Formosa today. Truly Ps. 23:4 was again proved to me. Because we were in that valley.
Letter to his mother · 3 March 1945
Chicago, Courtship and the Call
1950–1951
Surprise of surprises – I'm going to be doing the Morning Clock (Bob Murfins job) 4 morning in July (4,8,11,15). Pray for me.
Letter to Eloise · 29 June 1950
I have no idea how many faithful listeners I have lost the station by now. Even if no one else enjoys it I can say I'm having the time of my life.
Letter to Mary Lou · 13 July 1950
Suppose every night at 10:00 your time which is 9:00 PM here we pause for prayer together. … So even though miles separate us we can meet together before the Lord. Let's call it at taps.
Letter to Mary Lou · August 1950
You know how I love radio work, darling – well it looks as though over there I'll get to do it. The Lord has all these things planned.
Letter to Mary Lou · November 1950
Chicago, Courtship and the Call, continued
I'm first of all thankful for my Saviour. He gave His all for me. … Next I thank Him for you. Your friendship is more than I ever dreamed of finding in anyone.
Letter to Mary Lou · 23 November 1950
Next Mary Lou I'm thankful for His leading to the islands. Yesterday I received word that my visa is to be granted. I'm so happy. Thanx for your prayers.
Letter to Mary Lou · 23 November 1950
Heard Helen Borth the other day.
Letter to Mary Lou · 14 March 1951
Say I heard Mr. Brooks twice while on the ship. On Monday night he said something like this – "Next week we'll have a guest Mr. Kenneth Engle now on the California Bear – " (Thrill)
Letter to Mary Lou · 14 March 1951
Manila and Binangonan
1951–1967
First, I'll take to say that it's been above and beyond anything I ever dreamed of – like my Mary Lou.
Letter to Mary Lou · 20 March 1951
In the evening out to DZAS. I now do the announcing for the program. … They are all so thrilled the way the school is going over. We get more letters than any other program. May all the glory go to Him.
Letter to Mary Lou · 26 March 1951
Sure enough there were two letters from Mary Lou. I was so excited I tried to use the P.O. key to open car door.
Diary · 18 May 1951
Talked to Steve about Brigade. Later talked to Noel. I'm very encouraged, step by step as He leads.
Diary · 30 September 1951
A year after he landed in Manila. Mary Lou was to sail that October.
I can hardly realize that a year has passed. … Around here they are already kidding me about next October.
Letter to his parents · 12 March 1952
Manila and Binangonan, continued
On April 26th Mary Lou Leonard and I were married in the San Juan Gospel Hall. … Dogs were barking outside and maybe it was not just like in the States but the Lord was there and that was the most important part.
Letter to friends at The Fields, New York · About May 1953
Surely Satan is busy keeping folk from studying the Word and learning the Good News of salvation. We ask your prayers for those who want to know more of the Lord Jesus and are being opposed by the Enemy of souls. Prayer is our best weapon.
Missionary newsletter report · June 1954
To market. Didn't spend much because finances are low. Had a few centavos left. 65 in bank and that's all we know of.
Diary · 18 June 1954
Again at just the right time He sent it in. We thank Him for each such experience.
Diary · 18 June 1954
Brigade with faithful 3: Rudy, Reny & Doming.
Diary · 8 January 1955
Manila and Binangonan, continued
Election in afternoon. Mr. Mercado got Chairmanship. Noel Ison Sunday School Superintendent; Rudy & Reny other SS offices.
Diary · 9 January 1955
Took Brigade swimming to Balara. 7 boys and 3 leaders. Dominy & Arturo passed swimming test.
Diary · 29 January 1955
Elected Rudy for Publicity and Gospel Activities Chair.
Diary · 27 February 1955
Got gifts for Rudy and Lety. Went to office worked, then to Rudy's graduation with Reny. Secretary of Education Hernandez spoke.
Diary · 31 March 1955
Brigade fellow passing tests for camp contest.
Diary · 9 April 1955
Manila and Binangonan, continued
At Light Bringers, Reny and Rudy gave chalk talk. Went to Bilibid. Mercado and I spoke. Brigadiers sang.
Diary · 19 June 1955
Only Rudy to work at BSA. Rudy cut his hand. Brigade boys helped in the afternoon.
Diary · 25 June 1955
Rudy and Doming dedicated their lives to the Lord.
Diary · 31 July 1955
Taught. Rudy baptized. Farewell for us.
Diary · 4 September 1955
Farewell at Light Bringers Surely brought tears. Thank Him for all these young people. Sang "Blest Be The Ties".
Diary · 11 September 1955
Kevin is now almost a year old.
Letter to John Smart, Emmaus · 16 July 1958About Kevin
Manila and Binangonan, continued
Mr. & Mrs. Cyril H. Brooks were used of the Lord to begin the work in 1950. … It began as a "sideline" but has become a very important part of the Philippine work.
Letter to John Smart · 27 May 1959
This is a great day for radio work in the Philippines!
Letter to John Smart, Emmaus · 27 May 1959
With Uncle Kevin Dyer, visiting Manila:
Kevin & I worked on "Teach Others."
Diary · 10 July 1959
We have had a wonderful term in every way.
Letter to the Woodside elders · 10 January 1960
May we say to His glory that it has been a wonderful term in His service. He has done exceeding abundantly above all we ask or thought. From the day we stepped from the ship and found He had a house ready for us to the doors of opportunity He swung open in teaching, youth work, provincial work…
Letter to the Christians of Woodside Bible Chapel · 15 March 1960
Manila and Binangonan, continued
The elders' letter approving the furlough came the morning the family went with him to Cavite, to a meeting of Navy servicemen and their wives:
I brought it to the car on the run.
Letter to the Christians of Woodside Bible Chapel · 15 March 1960
Went with Mr. Reinheimer to San Francisco for typewriters for BSA. Went to Remington & Sears. Finally found two Remingtons #17 at a used place $60 each. Felt the Lord directed.
Diary · 30 June 1961
O Lord my life I give to Thee on the altar.
Diary · 20 February 1962
Of the Bible School of the Air:
Each week we fill three containers with the mail coming back to us.
Prayer letter · June 1962
Mr. & Mrs. Cyril Brooks first arrived here in the Islands in 1922. So this marks their fortieth anniversary in the work.
Prayer letter · About December 1962
Manila and Binangonan, continued
Each week we take several thousand lessons to the post office. … Is it possible to do the work of the Lord effectively without a burden?
Prayer letter · Early 1963
"Then Caleb calmed the people." … It reminds me of what people around Galilee might have been like. … In this area we are seeking to be fishers of men.
Letter to Beachwood Chapel · 2 April 1963
We had the joy of seeing 11 young people baptized in Binangonan last Lord's Day. When I say we I mean that Becky and Kevin went along. … They had a farewell meal at noon. It will be hard to leave these folks.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 25 July 1963About Kevin
We have had so much sunshine surely we should not fear the clouds.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 25 July 1963
Of the funeral of Mr. T. E. McCully, Ed McCully's father, at College Church in Wheaton:
I do not know of a funeral where so many men wept openly.
Letter to fellow missionaries in the Philippines · 13 May 1965
Manila and Binangonan, continued
I THE LORD HAVE CALLED THEE IN RIGHTEOUSNESS AND WILL KEEP THEE. I have seen the Lord do this for 15 years.
Letter to Rudy Ponce de Leon · 13 August 1965
As missionaries some of us sowed some of the early seeds. But now is the time for it to have a full Filipino flavor.
Letter to Rudy Ponce de Leon · 13 August 1965
Mrs. Engle is greatly improved but not wholly. We want only His will.
Letter to Rudy Ponce de Leon · 13 August 1965
A gospel sign in a good location preaches 24 hours a day. … It can speak in any language.
Article · 1966
A real testimony of what one man won to the Lord can do… May I reach some like this for Thee.
Diary · 23 March 1966
Manila and Binangonan, continued
So there are several spiritual generations which go back to that original witness in a hospital in the 1930's. When we sow the Word, we surely do not know what the eternal results will be.
Letter to Bro. Smart · 24 March 1966
Karen's birthday. Recd a flute from us. Thrilled
Diary · 18 April 1966
“Faith Day,” as the family came to call it:
We had been praying much about school expenses — needed P1000 for 1st payment and we just did not have it. Children praying too. Becky & Kevin & I to P.O. Letter from Bella Cameron with P200 specifically given for the children's education… Learned of insurance settlement — almost P1000 very fair — praise Him. What a day.
Diary · 14 July 1966About Kevin
We have been moving forward by faith not figures in bank book. Now the Lord provides. Great is His faithfulness. … Two ways of figuring — By Fear — By Faith.
Diary · July 1966
Manila and Binangonan, continued
It was just a year ago today that our plane touched down at Manila International Air Port … It has been a good year. However, it has not been a year of all sunshine. There have been cloudy days … it is good to know that "back of the clouds the sun is always shining."
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · December 1966
What new thing (things) will He do in 1967. I am anxious to see.
Diary · 1 January 1967
We had our first meeting at the San Juan Elementary School on February 2nd, 1952.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 27 January 1967
Give Us This Mountain
Baguio · 1967–1970
He mentioned Baguio. We just smiling — felt it was out of the question
Diary · 25 April 1967
Decision on way to town — pressure great. Must leave field this summer. Hard decision — not sure of leading.
Diary · 25 May 1967
Agreement reached — We had prayed much. Felt the Lord gave us the house.
Diary · 26 May 1967
Gordons song in car to house 'Do not be afraid'
Diary · 26 May 1967
We looked at the house and felt it was just what we needed. … The Lord gave us peace about the whole matter.
Letter to the Woodside elders · 3 June 1967
Give Us This Mountain, continued
Mr. Brooks said it possibly was the Lord's way of thrusting us forth into new areas.
Letter to the Woodside elders · 3 June 1967
Since the above happenings we have received a specific gift for radio work sent to us personally to be used in the way we felt best. Is this the first "green light" toward Baguio radio work?
Letter to the Woodside elders · 3 June 1967
As you can see we need your prayers. It is sixteen years since I first came to the Philippines. This is a major change of areas. We both feel the Lord has directed. Mary Lou definitely feels better in this climate.
Letter to the Woodside elders · 3 June 1967
Our new address is simply: GEN. DELIVERY, BAGUIO, PHILIPPINES.
Letter to the Woodside elders · 3 June 1967
The Brigade program was almost wholly in the hands of the nationals.
Letter to the Woodside elders · 3 June 1967
Read more: Herald of Christ, “In the Hands of the Nationals” →
Give Us This Mountain, continued
We had a childrens meeting about 4 PM. Sang Inibig Ako Ni Jesus. I told "Barney's Barrel."
Diary · 27 June 1967
My wife, five children and I are now living in this Pines City... because of the health of my wife.
Form letter to Bible School of the Air students · Mid-1967
Got my office in order. Best office Ive ever had. Becky helped me.
Diary · 3 July 1967
Kevin's birthday — to Burnham Park — to take place of May 26th start.
Diary · August 1967About Kevin
First day of school for the children at Brent. I took them. Kevin & Stanley went to class room over toward tennis court. They all came back very happy with the first day — Made friends, liked their teachers.
Diary · August 1967About Kevin
Give Us This Mountain, continued
The booster got very hot — that we almost had a fire — strong odor from it.
Diary · August 1967
Matt. 14:27 In the storms of life He comes to us and says, "Be of good cheer, It is I, be not afraid."
Diary · 2 September 1967
First Childrens Bible Hour on the air on DZBS at 330. (8.75) I gave address at the end — had 60 sec.
Diary · 2 September 1967
We have been given a whole new mission field with great new opportunities.
Letter to Countryside Bible Chapel · 7 September 1967
Last Saturday our first program went on the air here.
Letter to Countryside Bible Chapel · 7 September 1967
I could not help recall the first of these conferences which was held in Manila in 1951 with only a handful of men. I had the privilege of speaking to those fellows.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 9 October 1967
Give Us This Mountain, continued
Imagine buying warm things in the Philippines, The Lord has met each need.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 9 October 1967
…saw report of "Trining" typhoon. Decided to go on. Hour later high winds & rain. Signs down. At Kennon bus said "no go." On to Naguilan Rd — turned back at bridge. Called ML P1.20. OK — Stayed at Crestola — No lights early to bed. So thankful for his protection.
Diary · 17 October 1967
Winds let up in night. Bridge out to Manila — in fact 2 of them. Tried morning & afternoon to go up but still closed. … Prayer Meeting in the evening by Kerosene light.
Diary · 18 October 1967
Sun shining brightly. Decided to go as far as we could. Kept right on going. Busses coming the other way.
Diary · 19 October 1967
Got home at 10:30. They were surprised to see us.
Diary · 19 October 1967
Give Us This Mountain, continued
On Wednesday night, our second night, Dad Brooks and I had a long prayer meeting. … It was the worst typhoon in this area in 20 or 30 years.
Typhoon letter, Baguio · October 1967
Out to find water. Found pump at Mesman. Kevin helped with hauling 2 trips — 4 drums
Diary · 24 October 1967About Kevin
Family crisis over Becky's dishes.
Diary · 24 October 1967
Mary Lou is better than she has been since leaving the USA, Praise Him! … we have boys meeting from almost the top to the bottom of the Philippines chain of islands.
Letter to Joe Coughlin, Christian Service Brigade · 28 October 1967
MOMENTS OF MELODY began in October and has continued daily over DZBS here in Baguio.
Article, “Radio Outreach in the Philippines” · Late 1967
Give Us This Mountain, continued
Winds blowing hard from noon on. Typhoon "Welming" ML + I stayed awake most of the night. Children and Chuck rested well.
Diary · 4 November 1967
Kitchen, 55 Malvar — Note booster to left — Sometimes voltage not 110 but 40 or 50 volts.
Photo album caption · 1967–70
In December we put up a 10' by 24' Gospel Signboard.
“Signboard Story” · December 1967
We have often asked prayer for three B's. (Broadcasting, Brigade and Binangonan) Now we add a fourth: Baguio!
Prayer letter, “Dear Friends” · January 1968
Yes, He did many new things for us in 1967 and we thank Him.
Prayer letter, “Dear Friends” · January 1968
Give Us This Mountain, continued
We long that some of these men will come back to fight another war here in the future with the Sword of the Spirit as their weapon.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 10 January 1968About Kevin
The Brigade work is 100% in the hands of nationals.
Letter to Joe Coughlin, Christian Service Brigade · 20 March 1968
MOMENTS OF MELODY is heard daily on seven stations throughout the Philippines. Surely this is of the LORD. I did not ask one of these stations to carry the program.
Letter · Spring 1968
I feel we have some of the finest young men in leadership positions in Brigade that are available in the Philippines.
Letter to Joe Coughlin, Christian Service Brigade · April 1968
Pres Marcos arrives in evening. We got Living Series at OMF P32 4 volumes — ML wrote in them.
Diary · 9 May 1968
Give Us This Mountain, continued
Awoke 530 - Booster - kettle on fire - minutes later ML smelled smoke - screamed - I ran - ground wire red hot. Threw water on curtains - before. Pull off all electricity. A few minutes later might have been too late.
Diary · 11 May 1968
Electrician repaired stove — put in new box. Nick did repair work. 3 new windows — bars etc. Boys club — Breaking of Bread in evening. Wellers. CHB. Epplers. Mrs Balanag. Sgt. Jaleco here. CHB with us over weekend.
Diary · 11 May 1968
We got up at 530. ML called Evelyn — Fred called aide of Pres. Said Pres. dressing — they are going early. We ate rushed to Airport. Within minutes Pres. came. Review + 21 salute by PMA.
Diary · 12 May 1968
I had the joy of speaking at the first conference in 1951 soon after my arrival in the Philippines. We had less than a dozen men at that conference. This time we had around 160.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 30 July 1968
Give Us This Mountain, continued
Of Cyril and Anna Brooks, who stayed with the Engles for the servicemen's conference:
As you may recall both Mary Lou and I stayed with them when we first came to the Philippines.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 30 July 1968
We have seen a definite answer to prayer in regard to her health since our move. The Lord has opened up a whole new area of work here in Northern Luzon.
Letter to Dr. and Mrs. Harlow · 16 September 1968
…since our move here Baguio has set a new world's record for rainfall. It rained 47.9 inches in a 24 hour period !
Letter to friends · October 1968
After a time of singing together as Mary Lou plays the piano we divide into classes. Mary Lou has the ladies. I have the men and Becky and Karen the children.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 17 October 1968
It is often much easier to look back on the guidance of the Lord than to move forward into it.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 17 October 1968
Give Us This Mountain, continued
As we look back we really believe the Lord led us to Aurora Hill in May of 1967.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 17 October 1968
You were honest in writing to me and I want to be the same with you. … We went home in 1963 and it took two years before we were allowed by a doctor to return.
Letter to a young man thinking of missionary work · 25 March 1969
I have my opinion of these long rambling missionary letters. But it did seem like we had many things to share with you.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 4 April 1969
This city is a favorite honeymoon spot....Mary Lou and I had our honeymoon here 16 years ago.
Letter to Joe Coughlin · 17 April 1969
Sometimes we feel we have taken on too many projects. Then someone comes along with another.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 17 June 1969
At Haacks saw that typhoon was moving this way — remembered "Trining". Hurried on — made good time.
Diary · 6 September 1969
Give Us This Mountain, continued
The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build.
Diary · 1970
However, we add local announcements and the children write to us here. My boys, Kevin and Stanley, help me with the program.
Article · 1970About Kevin
Of Mary Lou:
Her health has been so much better during these Baguio days.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 17 February 1970
A Kansas Furlough
1970–1973
All of a sudden we have more recording to do than we can keep up with. But we know He is able.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 2 September 1971
Though we are 10,000 miles away we speak daily by tape recording over there. We actually have more broadcast hours now than ever before.
Letter · Fall 1971
Of the Christian Service Brigade:
We got it going in the Philippines by the Lord's help several years ago. It is an exciting story.
Letter to a meeting host, before a speaking tour · 8 October 1971
The amazing thing is that even though we are here in the USA the Lord has made it possible for us to broadcast more hours than ever before overseas.
Letter to Mrs. Margaret Van Ryn, Workers Together · 5 November 1971
Christ is the answer to the cry of the human heart. … Glynn has helped me so much with my broadcasts.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 15 December 1971
A Kansas Furlough, continued
Kevin and Stanley attend a Boys Brigade near here. Kevin tells me he is to give devotions tonight. That will be a first for him.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 10 February 1972About Kevin
We ask you to pray as we bring up three teen-agers. … It seems the enemy of souls has never worked harder but the Lord is greater and is giving greater victories than ever.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 10 February 1972
I first saw the Philippines as I served with the Fifth Air Force during Liberation in 1944-45. I returned to the Philippines in 1951 not with a gun but that time with the "sword of the Spirit", the Bible.
Letter to President Ferdinand Marcos · 13 March 1972
So little is much when God is in it!
Letter to Countryside Bible Chapel · 20 March 1972
While in the Chicago area I worked for four years with a Christian radio station there (WMBI). Then in 1951 I went to the Philippines in missionary work. … After Mary Lou finished her nurse's training she came out to the Philippines and we were married there.
Letter to Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Clounie · 14 April 1972
A Kansas Furlough, continued
Karen is celebrating her 17th birthday today. It hardly seems possible that it is 17 years since she arrived and we were living in our first little house in San Juan, Rizal, Philippines.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 18 April 1972
I have never had so many opportunities in the area...Lions Club...Rotary.
Letter to Glynn and Lela Dean, FEBC · 21 April 1972
Harvest is underway here in Kansas. Kevin and I have been out helping with the farm work on my brother's wheat farm. Dad is 73 and still takes his turn on the combine. … It is my favorite time of the year. It is always a reminder of what the Lord Jesus said about looking on the fields that are white unto harvest.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 27 June 1972About Kevin
When we went out to the Philippines more than twenty years ago we said our greatest need was prayer... You have prayed and the Lord has done powerful things.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · December 1972
What a ‘rat race’ life is here. It really is too fast. When you try to slow down you just about get run over.
Letter to Glynn and Lela Dean, FEBC · 16 January 1973
A Kansas Furlough, continued
What he orders, he pays for. If he sends you out, gives you a job to do, he's going to take care of it.
Testimony tape, John Hay, Baguio · 31 January 1973
Read more: Volume Two, “Manila and the Bible School of the Air” →
Sending support for Lino Aragon's work with the Children's Bible Hour:
I am sure there will be many children in heaven that heard the message on that program. … Sometimes when I feel I am at the end of my rope, I remember I am not at the end of HIS rope.
Letter to Lela Dean · 2 February 1973
Back to the Mountain
Baguio · 1973–1975
Happy Anniversary! The way mail goes these days I think I better get that word to you now.
Letter to his parents, Grant and Mabel Engle · 3 September 1973
We just look back and marvel at all the LORD has done since we left Kansas June 23rd.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 10 September 1973
The great need is for a piece of land on which to build. … I have… the best set up for recording that I have ever had.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 10 September 1973
I probably sounded casual when you told me that they liked Moment to Remember. Actually I was thrilled.
Letter to Glynn and Lela Dean · 26 October 1973
I am now very thankful to have a 6 cylinder car, the first I have ever owned.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 26 November 1973
Back to the Mountain, continued
I was asked to present the Bibles. I spoke for possibly five minutes and then each man came forward to receive his Bible. There were 114 Bibles given to the men. … As we walked among the crowd afterwards a number of Bibles were in evidence. It almost seemed like we were attending a Bible conference to see people carrying the Bibles!
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 24 January 1974
I let so many things crowd in and let that which I really enjoy the most…radio take a "back burner." I feel I have made a mistake in this and plan to do better in 1974.
Letter to Glynn Dean · 18 February 1974
Kevin is helping in my studio…splicing tapes. He can help me quite a bit now. In fact did I tell you he made up his own 15 minute program for teens called GOSPEL DIMENSIONS. We don't know if they will put it on DZAS or not. They have a sample right now.
Letter to his mother and dad · 23 April 1974About Kevin
Back to the Mountain, continued
The 45th semi-annual Servicemen's Bible conference has just finished here in Baguio. About 75 men and their wives attended, mostly from Clark Field and Subic Naval Base. The ‘Kitty Hawk’ aircraft carrier was also represented. Pray for these servicemen and their wives, also for those who work at servicemen's centers seeking to witness for Christ.
Prayer report, MISSIONS magazine · May–June 1974
Hard to believe that a year ago we were closing down things there.
Family letter to his parents · 25 May 1974
Pray for us as we seek to reach the "brown gold"…the people of this area with the Gospel. It is work to mine either kind of gold.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · September 1974
Karen taught some of the girls at the Chapel guitar…also helped some of the SS teachers with flannelgraph. They enjoyed getting to Binangonan and San Juan and seeing so many old friends.
Letter to Glynn and Lela Dean · 16 September 1974
A high school paper should not contain anything that could not be sent to the grandparents.
Letter to the adviser of the Brent Courier, Brent School · 18 October 1974
Back to the Mountain, continued
Typhoon after typhoon....two of the worst we have ever seen. … The work here goes slowly. Satan is at work everywhere trying to defeat all of us.
Letter to Glynn Dean, FEBC · 31 October 1974
The name Baguio means "storm."
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · November 1974
We are in a church planting situation and it is hard going. I find a great need to teach the Word. … GREAT IS HIS FAITHFULNESS!
Thanksgiving letter to Mr. and Mrs. William McRae · 28 November 1974
We have seen much blessing in the work lately but correspondence has suffered. … I speak Tagalog although in preparing messages I must study hard and often write much of it out. We lived in a Tagalog area for 15 years.
Letter to Rick and Carol · 6 February 1975
I do not like to attack groups. It is not my usual stance. I prefer to be positive.
Letter to Dr. Henry McGee, headmaster of Brent School · 24 February 1975
More and more we feel the believers here could be on their own. However, we would so much like to see them in their own building.
Letter to Glynn and Lela Dean · 19 March 1975
Back to the Mountain, continued
Of a boy with a hunched back who had come to their home in 1969, and who trusted the Savior shortly before he died:
We sow....someone else waters and God gives the increase.
Letter to Tony, a fellow Cubs fan · 21 April 1975
At the PMA graduation, where Dr. Christiaan Barnard and Dr. Denton Cooley were guests:
Stan got their autographs and Kevin took their pictures!
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 16 May 1975About Kevin
Moving up day — Upper. We went there to see Kevin receive best actor of the year gold metal. All broke out of my office almost.
Diary · 23 May 1975About Kevin
Kevin, Stan & I at gate 645 — went to Recruiting Office. Kevin shaved head & shots — sworn in … Said good bye —
Diary · 27 May 1975About Kevin
Back to the Mountain, continued
A week after Kevin was sworn into the Navy at Subic:
This kind of a decision is always hard to make. … So our family is now four....Stan and Gordon with us. … Even our leaving seems to be a challenge to some.
Letter to Phil Clarkson, for the Woodside elders · 2 June 1975About Kevin
This is Independence Day in the Philippines. … Though we leave this country we love for a time we will continue to have a radio ministry here.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 12 June 1975
We remember your seeing us off in 1965...the Peanuts book and apples. Say, that was ten years ago almost....where do the years go.
Letter to Ray · 12 June 1975
Home to Abilene
1975–2009
Of Bob Logan:
We were in a youth group at Austin Gospel Hall. (1946....30 years ago!)
Letter to John · 3 January 1976
After the fall of Viet Nam, Cambodia and Laos:
We can still reach that area by means of radio.
Letter to Dave Wielenga · January 1976
Becky & Dave — Mathson work · baby coming / Karen — work, future plans / Kevin — Temptations, responsibilities · Education, HS, college or military / Stan — Job. Allergy. foot-toe. car / Gordon — maturing ✱ GRIT / Douglas — saved early age
Diary · Memo page, 1976About Kevin
Let us never be satisfied to be "receivers" but may we also be "transmitters."
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 30 March 1976
Kevin, on the USS White Plains in Japan, was about to sail for the Philippines:
How we would enjoy going with him and walking down Morning Glory Street in Baguio and seeing the new chapel!
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 30 March 1976About Kevin
Home to Abilene, continued
Presents — Kevin E sent mirror from Japan.
Diary · 18 April 1976About Kevin
Dad wrote that Kevin, back in the Philippines a year after joining the Navy there, planned to go to the Gospel Hour at the Christian Servicemen's Center at Clark Field and then up to Baguio, and he likened it to Paul sending Timothy back to Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 3).
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 8 May 1976About Kevin
Our oldest son, Kevin, is in the Far East in the Navy. He just spent some time back in the Philippines. He was able to visit Baguio three times. … We felt much like the apostle Paul in I Thessalonians three where he sent his son in the faith, Timothy, back to Thessalonica.
Prayer letter · Summer 1976About Kevin
Oh Panginoon, sa mga panahong hindi ko alam ang aking gagawin, panatilihin Mo pong makatitig ako sa Iyo. (O Lord, in the times I don't know what to do, keep me looking to You.)
Letter to Brother Sofonias Clavecilla, San Juan (written in Tagalog) · 15 July 1976
Home to Abilene, continued
Our son, Kevin, is our representative out in that part of the world now. … As a boy he used to like to listen to tapes about Adoniram Judson. … I wrote him recently that now he is getting to be a missionary to that part of the world just like Judson.
Letter to the Northwest Missionary Study Class · 22 July 1976About Kevin
Of the land for the Baguio chapel:
a great answer to prayer. Land was getting so expensive there and we almost gave up.
Letter to Mrs. Dayton · 22 July 1976
After a hard week at Kansas Bible Camp, which the director called one of the best in years:
So often we feel our own weakness and must lean heavily upon Him. … I would like to know what the LORD thought of it!
Letter to Bill · 27 August 1976
Our missionary in the Pacific area at this time is our son, Kevin.
Letter to Colton Gospel Chapel · 30 October 1976About Kevin
The result was that before Rick got back on the ship he trusted the Lord as Savior. … It is the first one that Kevin has led to the Lord.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 2 March 1977About Kevin
Home to Abilene, continued
Interestingly it was 21 days later that the opportunity to get land for the Chapel came to us.
Letter to the Woodside elders · 10 June 1977
Overall though we believe that our absence has been good for the work. … It is not our work…it is the Lord's work. Just as our children need us at a certain time but then they need to be on their own…so it is with our children in the faith.
Letter to the Woodside elders · 10 June 1977
We had been praying for land for five years. … I trust this experience will someday be useful in the Philippines. … We feel that at this time the Lord wants us here.
Letter to Phil and Daisy Clarkson, for the Woodside elders · 10 June 1977
We are growing older (an understatement) and enjoying our new roles of being in-laws and grandparents! … [Kevin's visit to Baguio, Binangonan, San Juan and Faith Academy was] probably his sixth visit to the Philippines since he has been in the Navy.
Printed prayer letter · December 1977About Kevin
Home to Abilene, continued
In many ways it was a difficult year. We had the decision to make regarding the Philippines... we felt the Lord made it clear that we were to delay our return.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 24 December 1977
Ginny (April) Betsy (May) Paul (June), ML July.
Diary · 1978
When I saw the Philippines, I really loved them. Most of my time in the outfit was spent there. … Bible School of the Air had phenomenal growth. In 1967 we gave an award to the one millionth student. … One of the purposes of missionary work is to establish people in the churches so they can carry on.
Newspaper interview, Abilene Reflector-Chronicle, “Childhood Dreams Prompt…” · 11 February 1978
What a great calling we have from the Lord. … Up until now they have been using our little pump organ that has been in the Philippines since 1952!
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 5 April 1978
To an old friend facing an operation:
He is the God who is enough.....enough for every situation of life.
Letter to Phil and Daisy Clarkson · 26 July 1978
Home to Abilene, continued
Christmas 1978, with the family home:
Kevin has learned to play music on a saw just like his granddaddy Leonard did years ago,
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 15 January 1979About Kevin
We lived in San Juan, Rizal and also Baguio City. We love the Philippines and the Filipino people. I was there during liberation as a serviceman. Then went back in 1951.
Letter to Miraflor, a Filipina in the United States · 13 March 1979
The original survey team for OMF in 1951 stayed with the Brooks. I was still single at the time and was staying there, too.
Letter to Mrs. Lorraine Allison · 13 March 1979
All of a sudden the people of China are able to write to the outside world. … Mary Lou and I have sponsored a program for children since 1967.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 29 March 1979
I went overseas later in 1944 and flew missions over the Philippines. After studies here in the USA I returned to the Philippines as a missionary in 1951. Most of the past 25 or so years have been spent there.
Letter to Dr. Robert Naylor · 3 April 1979
Home to Abilene, continued
Another of our Brigade ‘boys’ [is] now an elder at San Juan. … It is a principle of II Tim. 2:2 and it works.
Letter to an old friend who taught him in Sunday School at Austin · 26 April 1979
We do not feel this means that the Philippines is cut out of the picture. We continue to send tapes and materials. I sent 44 books out last week.
Letter to Chuck and Winnie Christensen · May 1979
Both Stan and Kevin were born in San Juan Hospital, San Juan, Rizal. Delivered by Dra. Nora Diokno Casas, sister of Senator Diokno.
Letter to friends · 7 December 1979About Kevin
Of Kevin:
[He] just finished four years in the Navy. He entered the Navy at Subic.
Letter to Mr. and Mrs. Soterios Metropoulos · 7 December 1979About Kevin
We consider Rudy as one of our Timothys from our years in the Philippines.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · March 1980
Read more: Herald of Christ, “Led by One of the Original Members” →
When we moved to Baguio in 1967 I began a series of five minute broadcasts called Moments of Melody.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · June 1980
Home to Abilene, continued
For about 25 years we were missionaries to the Philippines. … We thank the Lord for the privilege of serving him over the years. Great is His faithfulness.
Letter to Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Tschetter · 9 January 1981
When martial law was lifted in the Philippines:
it lasted from 1972 until 1981. We were under Martial Law all of the time we were over there the last time.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 22 January 1981
Don't worry if it's hard to pronounce the names of the places. The LORD will know what you are praying about!
Letter to the Lees · 25 February 1981
Read more: In His Joy, “Don't Worry If It's Hard to Pronounce” →
So we thank the Lord that after being away for six years the LORD continues to bless.
Letter to Arnold and Trudy Burkle · 21 August 1981
Though letters from the Philippines asked them to come back:
the work in Binangonan and Baguio progresses well without us.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 29 June 1982
Home to Abilene, continued
We have been involved in other kinds of work such as radio, youth work, Christ For Greater Manila, camp work etc, but this is the work that I have just described that seems to have left the greatest impression. Only eternity will show what really is important but thirty years later, that's the way it looks.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · About 1983
We have been great users of tracts over the years. Possibly more so in the Philippines.
Letter to Ethelmae · 3 March 1983
During World War II I was on a Liberator B-24 and the upper turret was built by Martin.
Letter to the Tom Willey Foundation · 14 April 1983
Give your talent (and you do have talent) and your life to the LORD and you will never be sorry.
Letter to Jerry, a young actor in “The Sound of Music” · 27 April 1983
After Fred Magbanua, general manager of FEBC Philippines, telephoned him:
In 1959 I taught at the FEBIAS Bible school and Fred was in the class on the Gospel of Mark.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 1 June 1983
Home to Abilene, continued
I was a student at Henderson in 1944 with the 66th College Training Detachment. … possibly my favorite place of all my Army Air Corps career.
Letter to the Henderson College Alumni Association · 21 July 1983
I even dreamed of being a sports announcer for the Cubs. Maybe that is where I went wrong. Maybe I would be President today???
Letter to Jack, a fellow Cubs fan · July 1983
There are no comments. But you know the promises that His word will not return unto Him void!
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 2 September 1983
Radio is that way and also TV… it reaches people who would not come out to services.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 11 October 1983
Corkills, Dyer children — to stay with us — Mark + Sue and Craig — good visit.
Diary · 24 November 1983
Home to Abilene, continued
It was impressive to see these young men, who owed so much to their grandma's prayers and counsel, carrying her to Newbern Cemetery. The Cemetery is on the corner of the Engle farm.
Christmas letter · December 1983
The name Baguio means literally ‘typhoon.’ It is right on ‘typhoon alley’ and we got our share.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 6 September 1984
We had a phone call this week from Kevin, who now lives in Dallas. He says it looks like he will soon have a Bible class with some Filipinos that he has contacted there. One of them even took the course "What the Bible Teaches" from our Bible School of the Air. This is exciting to learn that there continues to be fruit from those broadcasts and courses. Pray for Kevin as he teaches this class.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · April 1985About Kevin
On the mission field in the Philippines I would often go to the province alone. Mary Lou would have her hands full with the children. But now Doug is old enough to go along and we do so many of these things together.
Easter letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · April 1985
Home to Abilene, continued
We keep in touch by letter with these folks but now our own representative from the family will be there. We value your prayers for Karen.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · June 1985
It has been ten years now since we have been in the Philippines. Our son, Kevin, was back a couple of times to visit the believers when he was in the Navy. Now our daughter, Karen, is over there on a summer team … She wrote of tasting some of the tropical fruits that she had not had in years.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 11 July 1985About Kevin
If we have accomplished anything for the Lord, you share in all of it!
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 11 July 1985
For about 25 years we served as overseas missionaries … a number of our children are now interested in missions.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 18 September 1985
Home to Abilene, continued
On the publication of Cyril Brooks's autobiography:
Surely He worked it out that I should get some radio experience at WMBI and then go to a field where Mr. Brooks was already deeply involved in the new radio stations of the Far East Broadcasting Company. … We were married in the Chapel in San Juan and Mr. Brooks gave Mary Lou away in the wedding.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 31 October 1985
Read more: Volume Two, “Manila and the Bible School of the Air” →
We can't help but wonder if some of our programs were not being beamed out when the transmitters were on full power in the crisis??
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 13 March 1986
Read more: In His Joy, “Don't Worry If It's Hard to Pronounce” →
I stayed with them when I went over as a single missionary. Then when Mary Lou arrived I moved to the OMF home. Mary Lou and another single lady lived with Brooks until our wedding.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 22 May 1986
The big event of recent days was the wedding of Kevin our oldest son to Cheryl Ferris in Dallas. Her parents were missionaries in Korea. The two dads performed the ceremony.
Letter for the Woodside bulletin board · Summer 1986About Kevin
Home to Abilene, continued
One by one they go on to that better land. … I am still involved with the recording of the Emmaus Bible Hour.
Letter to Duncan and Sally Mathieson · 6 August 1986
CALL upon ME and I will answer thee and shew thee Great and Mighty things which thou knowest not. GMT Jer 33:3
Diary · 29 December 1986
^ Baptized 14 Jun 87 So. Porcupine ON
Diary · 29 December 1986
1986 is a year that I feel we will always remember as one of special testing. We found the Lord a help in every hour of testing. … It was also a year of special opportunity with the evangelistic meetings with Dave Breese.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · January 1987
It was 36 years ago today that I began my missionary work in the Philippines. It was a Saturday and St. Patrick's Day. A launch brought me in from the freighter which was anchored in Manila Bay. I had boarded the freighter on February 17th in San Francisco at Pier 45. You could say I was very glad to set foot on Philippine soil.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 17 March 1987
Home to Abilene, continued
We all need to be missionaries, I feel is the bottom line.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 17 March 1987
Dave talking to Doug + Christy. Dave filling baptismal tank — hot water.
Diary · 13 June 1987
Doug sang or played the harmonica, Mary Lou played the piano, and Dad gave a short message at the nursing homes and the senior center:
Mary Lou, Doug (our 10 year old) and I have a gospel team.
Letter to Woodside Bible Chapel · 13 August 1987
Stan and Fiona's wedding day, in England:
Wedding at noon / STAN + FIONA … Our thots in England. Kevin called. At 2pm (8pm there) Stan + Fiona called ‘Hello Mrs Engle’ — they both said. 100 at wedding.
Diary · 21 November 1987About Kevin
Kevin's graduation — ML & I both with Kevin … B.A. in Psychology U of Texas at Dallas. Speaker — "Truth changes!" We sat in shade.
Diary · 21 May 1988About Kevin
Home to Abilene, continued
Began by mentioning KLE in Navy, 2 in Air Force + KES in US Army Air Corps.
Diary · 26 May 1997About Kevin
6 P.M. To 8th St Bridge / Wore Kevin's Navy Jacket.
Diary, Memorial Day · 26 May 1997About Kevin
Next is Doug. You will enjoy him!! … He is the son of our "old age."
Letter · 22 August 2003
KLE — sent copies of my Journal WWII etc. … Thankful for my childrens calls.
Diary · 3 December 2004About Kevin
Gordon, enjoy the journey.
To Gordon · Often said, in his later years
Dad and Kevin: A Chronology
1957–2009
- 22 August 1957 Kevin is born at San Juan Hospital, San Juan, Rizal. Dad later wrote that he was delivered by Dra. Nora Diokno Casas, sister of Senator Diokno. He is named for Uncle Kevin Dyer. Read more: Volume Three, “Five Beautiful Dolls” →
- 16 July 1958 Dad writes to Emmaus: “Kevin is now almost a year old.”
- July 1959 Uncle Kevin Dyer visits Manila. The two Kevins are photographed together. Read more: Volume Two, “Teach Others Also” →
- July 1963 Kevin, almost six, goes with Dad to Binangonan, where eleven young people are baptized in the lake. Read more: In His Joy, “Eleven in the Lake” →
- 5 September 1965 Kevin trusts the Lord at Woodside Bible Chapel, Maywood, Illinois, just before the family returns to the Philippines. Read more: In His Joy, “A New Mission” →
- 27 March 1966 Eight-year-old Kevin is with Dad at Binangonan when six are baptized at a rocky point on the lake. Read more: Volume Two, “Heaven Came Down” →
- 14 July 1966 “Faith Day.” With no money for school fees, Dad takes Becky and Kevin to the post office, and the gift is there.
- May 1967 Kevin and Dad come down from Baguio to Manila together for a rally.
- 22 August 1967 Kevin's tenth birthday at Burnham Park, “to take place of May 26th start.” His present: “a telephone set that really works.” Days later Dad takes the children to their first day at Brent School. Read more: Volume Three, “The First Day of School” →
- 24 October 1967 After the typhoon, ten-year-old Kevin helps Dad haul water up the hill in drums. Read more: Volume Three, “Becky's Dishes” →
- January 1968 A sailor from the USS Canberra, who had studied the Bible at the Engle home, writes to Kevin from the Gulf of Tonkin: “Pray that this war would be over soon.” Read more: In His Joy, “Pray That This War Would Be Over” →
- About 1970 Dad writes: “My boys, Kevin and Stanley, help me with the program,” the Children's Bible Hour. Read more: In His Joy, “My Boys Help Me” →
Dad and Kevin: A Chronology, continued
- 22 August 1971 Kevin's fourteenth birthday in Abilene. Mom's diary: “Ken gave him his Leika watch.”
- 10 February 1972 Kevin gives devotions at Boys Brigade for the first time. “That will be a first for him.” Read more: In His Joy, “A Kansas Furlough” →
- 27 June 1972 Kevin and Dad help with the wheat harvest on Uncle Keith's farm. “It is my favorite time of the year.” Read more: In His Joy, “A Kansas Furlough” →
- Late 1972 Dad's prayer letter: Kevin is a high-school freshman and “an enthusiastic stamp and coin collector.” With Becky and Karen he attends Congress III that winter.
- 3 December 1973 Back in Baguio, Dad writes that Kevin is helping start a campus Bible class at Brent School.
- 4 February 1974 “Kevin is now taller than Ken.”
- 23 April 1974 Kevin helps in Dad's home studio, splicing tapes, and makes his own fifteen-minute teen program, Gospel Dimensions. Read more: In His Joy, “Gospel Dimensions” →
- 16 May 1975 At the PMA graduation, “Stan got their autographs and Kevin took their pictures!”: Dr. Christiaan Barnard and Dr. Denton Cooley.
- 23 May 1975 Dad watches Kevin receive the Best Actor gold medal at Brent for playing Jud in Oklahoma! Read more: Volume Three, “Best Actor of the Year” →
- 27 May 1975 Dad and Stan stand with Kevin at the gate at Subic at 6:45 in the morning. Kevin is sworn into the Navy. “Said good bye.” Read more: Volume Three, “The Gate at Subic” →
- 16 September 1975 After boot camp, Kevin is in fellowship at Laurel Chapel and helps at the Servicemen's Center in San Diego. Read more: In His Joy, “Christian Servicemen’s Centers” →
- January 1976 Kevin spends his first Christmas away from home with the Don Andersons near San Francisco, then ships out to Japan.
- 18 April 1976 Easter, and Karen's 21st birthday. Dad's diary: “Kevin E sent mirror from Japan.” Read more: Volume Four, “A Mirror from Japan” →
Dad and Kevin: A Chronology, continued
- 8 May 1976 Kevin is back in the Philippines. Dad writes that he plans to go to the Gospel Hour at the Christian Servicemen's Center at Clark Field, and then to Baguio, like Paul sending Timothy. Read more: In His Joy, “Christian Servicemen’s Centers” →
- Summer 1976 Kevin visits Baguio three times. The believers write how much his visits encouraged them. Dad remembers the boy who loved the tapes about Adoniram Judson. Read more: In His Joy, “Our Missionary in the Pacific” →
- 2 August 1976 Kevin is at sea in the Indian Ocean near Africa with the carrier Ranger's group.
- 27 October 1976 Kevin sends home a cassette about Fred Balanag, now an elder in Baguio.
- 30 October 1976 “Our missionary in the Pacific area at this time is our son, Kevin.” On the USS White Plains he and one other Christian lead services and show gospel films. Read more: In His Joy, “Our Missionary in the Pacific” →
- 2 March 1977 Kevin's shipmate Rick, from the Midway, trusts the Lord on the way back from Baguio. “It is the first one that Kevin has led to the Lord.” Read more: In His Joy, “Our Missionary in the Pacific” →
- April 1977 Home from Japan, Kevin drives with the family to Sault Ste. Marie to see Becky, Dave and baby Stephanie. Dad speaks at the chapel there.
- December 1977 Kevin makes “probably his sixth visit to the Philippines since he has been in the Navy”: Baguio, Binangonan, San Juan and Faith Academy.
- Christmas 1978 Home for Christmas, Kevin plays music on a saw, “just like his granddaddy Leonard did years ago.”
- May 1979 Kevin leaves the Navy after four years and goes on to Sterling College in Kansas.
- 7 September 1981 Labor Day: Dad and Kevin play shuffleboard with Grandpa Engle and Uncle Keith at Brown's.
- March 1982 Kevin is in college in Hutchinson and teaching Joshua in a Bible class at the chapel there.
- May 1984 Kevin moves to Dallas and speaks at the Wednesday meetings at Wheatland Bible Chapel.
- April 1985 Kevin plans a Bible class with Filipinos in Dallas; one had taken What the Bible Teaches from the Bible School of the Air. Read more: In His Joy, “Fruit in Dallas” →
Dad and Kevin: A Chronology, continued
- 19 July 1986 Kevin marries Cheryl Ferris. “The two dads performed the ceremony.” The next Sunday Dad speaks at Wheatland Bible Chapel. Read more: In His Joy, “Fruit in Dallas” →
- 21 November 1987 Stan and Fiona's wedding day in England. Dad's diary: “Kevin called.”
- 21 May 1988 Dad and Mom sit in the shade at Kevin's graduation from the University of Texas at Dallas. It is Armed Forces Day. Read more: Volume Four, “Armed Forces Day” →
- 26 May 1997 Memorial Day. Dad wears Kevin's Navy jacket to the Eighth Street Bridge to give the prayer. Read more: Volume Four, “Abilene” →
- 3 December 2004 Dad mails Kevin copies of his World War II journal. “Talked to KLE.” Read more: Volume Two, “Tail Gunner” →
- About 2006–2009 Dad spends his last years with Kevin and Cheryl in Texas. “If I ever forget,” Kevin wrote, “he reminds me he is the dad.” Read more: Volume Four, “Two Homegoings” →
- 5 November 2009 Dad goes home to the Lord in Abilene, four days before his 85th birthday. Kevin holds his hand. Cheryl sings “Finally Home.” Read more: Volume Four, “Two Homegoings” →
Sources
Gathered by Kevin Engle, October 2026, from Ken Engle's letters of 1951–1987 (the 509-page KEE letter collection), his wartime letters and the 1950–51 courtship letters, his diaries as transcribed by Gordon Engle, his 1973 testimony tape, and the volumes and companion books of this series.
Diary quotations come from Gordon's stories, which cite the book and page of each one. Letter quotations were checked against the OCR of the original pages.
Growing Up in the Philippines
From Ken’s and Mary Lou’s diaries, Gordon’s stories and Kevin’s memories · 1966–1988
Added 13 October 2026
Kevin in a Calesa
The Bicycle Adventure (1968)
Baguio City · 1968 · From Kevin Engle’s recollections
Kevin was about eleven, and Baguio was a city of hills. One day in 1968 he set out on a bicycle adventure, and not long afterward he had his appendix out.
The appendix is a footnote. The bicycle adventure is a story of its own, and Evelyn Balanag is part of it. Kevin will tell it here.
Coming soon.
Anchors Aweigh
On Thursday 20 March 1975, Kevin, seventeen, rode down to Olongapo at the gate of Subic Bay to try for the Navy. He had been born just down the road, in a San Juan hospital in Manila.
Kevin left in a.m. for Alongapo to try for the Navy. Anchors Aweigh My Boys is our new theme song.
Mary Lou, 20 March 1975
Kevin home from Subic. Said he passed the screening test and goes again for 10 tests next week. Really excited about the navy.
Mary Lou, March 1975
Then, on 9 May, in orange ink:
RED Letter DAY. Navy called for Kevin to report May 27th!! Brent's last day is 25th - graduation! Talk about perfect timing! Oklahoma tonight. Kevin & Stan big parts.
Mary Lou, 9 May 1975
The headmaster at Brent, Dr. McGee, had been a Navy man himself in the Second World War. He rearranged Kevin's schedule so he could sit his exams for credit even if the Navy called him early. That is why a diploma came at all.
From Mary Lou's 1975 diary and Gordon's story "Anchors Aweigh, My Boys" (17 Sep 2026), with Kevin's memories.
Jud Fry
That spring Brent School put on Oklahoma! in its gymnasium. Ken wrote to the relatives on 22 April: "Kevin is in the school play OKLAHOMA...his part is that of Jud." Jud Fry is the villain, the farmhand who wants the girl, doesn't get her, and dies in the last act.
Kevin says he built Jud's walk on his father, who had just had minor surgery and "walked like a duck." "I got guns to my side and I got boots on."
I became Jud Fry. I was Jud Fry… I actually felt like I had an out-of-body experience. Like I was watching myself on stage.
Kevin, 2026
Saigon had fallen on 30 April. Eleven days later Ken wrote seven words:
US Ambassador to Viet Nam at play OKLA.
Ken, 10 May 1975
Kevin has wondered for half a century what the ambassador thought of his Jud. "He stepped out of a really, really horrible situation, and yet was able to relax and enjoy a play."
Best Actor of the Year
Kevin had not planned to go to the awards. "I am like the number four priority of the actors," he says. On Friday 23 May both his parents wrote it down:
Moving up day — Upper. We went there to see Kevin receive best actor of the year gold metal. All broke out of my office almost.
Ken, 23 May 1975
Fri. Kevin got gold medal for acting Judd in 'Oklahoma'. Graduation in evening. Carlos P. Romulo was speaker.
Mary Lou, 23 May 1975
Gen. Carlos P. Romulo, the Philippines' foreign minister, spoke to the graduates. "35 graduated," Ken noted. Kevin was not one of them. He was four days from the Navy.
Kevin's last day with us. Gave Gordon his baseball glove! Chose his menus again — Chicken — Chocolate pie. Sat around fire.
Mary Lou, 25 May 1975
Ken & boys left at 8 - Hard, but had to happen. Our kids all grow up and go away & it hurts but is necessary.
Mary Lou, 26 May 1975
The Gate at Subic
On Tuesday 27 May, at a quarter to seven in the morning, Ken and Stan stood with Kevin at the gate.
Kevin, Stan & I at gate 645 — went to Recruiting Office. Kevin shaved head & shots — sworn in … Said good bye —
Ken, 27 May 1975
Mary Lou was two hundred miles north in Baguio, down with the flu. Her whole entry for the day is one sentence:
Tuesday. Kevin's swearing in day at Subic! God keep him strong in every way!
Mary Lou, 27 May 1975
Nine weeks of boot camp began immediately, with banging on metal trash cans at four or five in the morning, and he was in Company 139 at San Diego. His high school diploma reached Kansas in a package eighteen months later.
At the end of June 1975 Ken and Mary Lou left the Philippines for the last time as resident missionaries. They had served twenty-four years.
From Ken's and Mary Lou's 1975 diaries, Ken's letter of 22 April 1975, Gordon's stories "Best Actor of the Year" (20 Aug 2026) and "Two Big Shots," and Kevin's memories.
Armed Forces Day
On Saturday 21 May 1988, at an outdoor ceremony in Dallas, Ken and Mary Lou found a piece of shade.
Kevin's graduation — ML & I both with Kevin … B.A. in Psychology U of Texas at Dallas. Speaker — "Truth changes!" We sat in shade.
Ken, 21 May 1988
Afterward Kevin drove them around the city: Braum's for lunch, the place where the President was shot, Dallas Theological Seminary. Mary Lou noted in the margin, "Kevin drove on 'E' for long time. speedometer said 11111111."
He was thirty. He had left Brent without walking with his class, finished high school in the Navy, and his diploma had come home in a parcel. His Abilene class crossed the field in May 1976 without him. "This was Kevin's class," Ken wrote.
Mary Lou's index for the year gives it three words: "21 - Kevin graduated."
Printed at the top of Ken's page for that Saturday, by a diary company that had never heard of the family, are the words Armed Forces Day.
From Ken's and Mary Lou's 1988 diaries, in Gordon's story "Armed Forces Day."
Companion Books
Eight companion books stand beside the five volumes of the story.
- In His Joy: The Life and Ministry of Ken EngleDad's own letters · 1951–1987 · his life and ministry
- Herald of Christ: The Story of Rudy Ponce de LeonSan Juan, Rizal · 1951–1996
- Grace Triumphantthe autobiography of Cyril H. Brooks · © 1985 Walterick Publishers
- "Mary Lou, Mary Lou": The Story of Evelyn and Fred BalanagBaguio City · 1968–2010
- CherylCheryl Lyn Engle · her life, her music, her own words
- Karen, Patrick, and Romblon: “Carrying the Vision”keepm.org · the Emmaus app · Moments to Remember · Karen and Patrick
- Family Stories and FriendsFriends of the work · family stories · family reference
Faithful Men: A Library of Christian Classics, from PlymouthBrethren.org: Brethren writers and missionary lives, searchable by author, Scripture and topic. Open the library ↗
What Comes Next
This is one of eight companion books to Lord, Give Us This Mountain. The Table of Contents lists every book in the series.
Keep them for Jesus for eternity.
the prayer behind KEE Philippine Missions