Philippines Update, Day 2-The team was blessed to share in corporate worship with our local church partner, New Hope Fellowship. It was a wonderful time together as we praised our Lord, and Savior, with these brothers and sisters in Christ!
It was great renewing friendships from last year but also meeting new friends. The fellowship was so sweet and language was not a barrier as the Holy Spirit knitted our hearts together and offered up a sweet fragrance to our Heavenly Father.
Pastor Ding Teodoro shared a wonderful message from God's Word on abiding in Christ. We were reminded of what abididing in Christ requires but also what the benefits are to those who "are in Christ Jesus."
After two days of travel, the team was able to take a well-deserved afternoon nap and then reviewed plans for the upcoming week of ministry. Please pray that we will allow God to use us to influence many to place their faith and trust in the living God and find the hope and peace that so many desperately seek.
Philippines Update, Day 3 - The ministry with the children began today with about 100 children participating. After an opening session, the children then separated for four rotations - Bible Storying, crafts, music, and recreation.
Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the children were very well-behaved. After the closing session, the children were provided a nutrious lunch and then they departed for their homes. Most of the children come from two local squatter villages and are excited to have an opportunity to participate in Vacation Bible School program as a means of escaping the hopelessness they see daily in the villages.
As we experience in many places around the world, the children are so grateful for the time and attention they receive and they return the love and attention in amazing ways. We can honestly and sincerely share the love of Christ because of their display of uninhibited joy despite the challenging conditions in which they live.
It is also encouraging to see the amount of love that Pastor Ding and his wife Mona have for these children and their families. They have invested so much in these children to ensure they have an opportunity to know and accept Christ.
Thank you for keeping us in your prayers!
Love,
Team Philippines
