How Our Story Began
First Filipino International Baptist Church in Russell, Kentucky, grew from a missionary calling to serve Greenup County with Filipino warmth, clear Bible teaching, and genuine community. We exist to help people know the Savior, love like Christ, and walk as disciples through worship, prayer, fellowship, and everyday life together.
Our Faithful Spark
Our journey began with a sleepless night and a faithful curiosity. Led by the Holy Spirit, Missionaries Ely and Vem Sagansay discovered a local Asian market in Ashland, Kentucky. There, they met Oscar, a man facing a terminal illness. After sharing the Gospel, Oscar accepted Christ, and the Lord miraculously healed both his physical and spiritual heart. This powerful encounter sparked regular prayer meetings, laying the foundation for our church plant.
A Vision For The Community
God continued moving through strategic partnerships and a shared passion for church planting. Alongside Dr. Brian Horton and the Greenup Baptist Association, we connected deeply with the local Filipino-American community. Through fellowship, generous support, and a unified vision to reach the lost, the process of establishing our church was born. Today, we proudly serve Greenup County, eager to see what God will do next in Kentucky and beyond.
Meet Our Leadership
Ely Roque Sagansay
Church Planter & Missionary
Ely Roque Sagansay is a devoted missionary who answered the call to breathe new life into congregations. With steadfast faith and a heart full of purpose, he co-founded the First Filipino International Baptist Church alongside his wife. Ely's rich life history and countless crusades in spreading the Gospel stand as cornerstones in his spiritual journey, fostering authentic connections through grace and compassion.
Vemerlyn Dumala Sagansay
Church Planter & Missionary
Vemerlyn Dumala Sagansay brings her nurturing spirit and unwavering faith to the forefront as she embarks on her mission work. Guided by a profound sense of purpose, she co-established the First Filipino International Baptist Church with her husband. Vemerlyn's journey is marked by dedication to spiritual growth and fostering a welcoming community where individuals can connect and flourish in their faith.
Jonathan B. Rosario
Pastor
Jonathan serves faithfully as the Pastor at FFIBC. With deep spiritual insight and dedication, he guides the congregation towards enriched faith experiences. Engaging in community involvement and mentorship, Pastor Rosario nurtures a welcoming environment. His leadership is rooted in vibrant worship and a heartfelt commitment to the continued spiritual development of all who enter the church's embrace.
In Partnership With
Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), Kentucky Baptist Convention (KBC), Greenup Baptist Association (GBA), and Kirk Memorial Baptist Church in Grahn, Olive Hill, Kentucky.
“Joy Villanueva accepted the LORD, and became a believer of the LORD Jesus Christ on November 01, 2024. She reads the Bible every day. As what Pastor Ely said in his preaching- ‘Joy may have read the Bible everyday more than I do…’”
“Maureen and Maryo sent Pastor Ely a Text message from Florida about their intentions of joining the Church after they found the newly posted page of the Church on Social Media. From there, Pastor Ely and Vem invited them to stay in their house while they’re house hunting. Friendship was developed, and now they are with First Filipino- Asian International Baptist Church.”
“That afternoon, Oscar accepted the LORD, Pastor Ely then prayed for Oscar's physical heart's healing. In October 2022, the LORD healed Oscar's physical sickness, as well as his spiritual sickness. The LORD saved his soul.”