Our History
God’s Work, Not Man’s Story
“Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.”
(John 12:24)
This verse has shaped the life, ministry, and calling of The Avenue Village from the beginning – teaching us that true fruitfulness in God’s work comes through dying to self, costly obedience, and joyful endurance in trusting Christ completely.
The history of The Avenue Village NZ is not the story of human ambition, but of God’s faithful leading through prayer, Scripture, and obedience to His call.
While still in the Philippines, Michael Axalan sensed the Lord’s pastoral calling through extended seasons of prayer, careful examination of Scripture, and a growing burden to preach the gospel faithfully. By God’s grace, The Avenue Christian Ministries was established in the Philippines, beginning in weakness and simplicity, yet grounded in the Word of God.
From the beginning, the church held firmly to the biblical truth that “the laborer deserves his wages” (1 Timothy 5:18), while also following the apostolic example of sacrificial service. During the early years, Michael and the first leaders chose not to receive financial support, not as a requirement, but as an expression of voluntary sacrifice for the sake of the gospel.
“I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls.”
(2 Corinthians 12:15)
As the Lord worked, leaders were trained, workers were raised, and pastors were formed who themselves trained others. Churches were planted, some known as Avenue churches, and others as Sambahan sa Nayon, all united by the same gospel, the same Christ, and the same mission.
The Call to New Zealand
In God’s providence, Michael was later led to New Zealand. The calling did not change – only the place. Under the Lord’s guidance, The Avenue Village NZ was established in Christchurch.
The church began quietly, gathering in a garage for three years, devoted to:
- The teaching of Scripture
- Prayer and fasting
- Discipleship and training
- Spiritual formation
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”
(Acts 2:42)
After this season of preparation, the Lord opened the way for the church to gather publicly. The ministry expanded, and through prayer, fasting, and careful discernment, additional pastors/elders were trained, examined, and affirmed – Ricky Ramos, Jeffrey Lawayan, and Elson Panisigan.
A Growing Work Under Christ’s Headship
Today, The Avenue Village NZ is led by a plurality of pastors/elders — Michael Axalan, Ricky Ramos, Jeffrey Lawayan, and Elson Panisigan — who serve together under the authority of Scripture and the headship of Jesus Christ. The church continues to exist for one purpose alone: the glory of God through the proclamation of the gospel and the planting of faithful churches.
“Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”
(Psalm 127:1)
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Learn more about what we believe and why we proclaim the True Jesus Christ →