Friday, August 15, 2008

CCWC Short-term Missions Trip

We recently enjoyed a visit from the CCWC missions team. It was definitely an eventful 10 days. The team experienced what only a few have had the chance to see. We took them to the dumpsite in Balok, which was probably one of the most difficult things they had to witness. People literally live in garbage, sifting through the mountains of trash to find anything they can sell to earn a meager income.


They were also given the opportunity to accompany Jeff Rice on the street feeding program. At around 7:30 they hit the streets with food and a handful of stories. The kids, most of whom resort to glue-sniffing to kill hunger pains, loved  them. They crowded around the team and listened intently as Blanca Brown told them the story of the love of Jesus. Afterwards, they were given bread, juice and hugs. My mom, Debbie, couldn’t get over one small 6 yr. old boy, Junior, who sat quietly on the sidewalk looking unreasonably adorable. FTC (Face the Children) is currently considering adopting Junior, if he and his sister consent.



Another exciting event was the victory of mind over matter... conquered by Angi Magoulis. We decided that as a rite de passage into the PFM (Philippine Frontline Ministries), she would have to indulge in one of the Filipino delicacies... Balot. This is a fully-developed duck embryo, ready to hatch in a day or two, salted and flavored. (Anyone seen Fear Factor?) She passed the test with flying colors. (Way to go!)


All in all, we were truly blessed to have te team here. It was a home-run for both the “home team” and the “visitors.” Through the evangelistic tent outreaches, jail ministry, street feedings, FTC and FWC (Frontline Worship Center) ministry, we were thoroughly encouraged to see that not only the people in the Philippines have a passion for what God is doing through the PFM.


To those who have been here, a very big THANK YOU! To those who haven’t  been here, we hope to see you in the not so distant future.


Farewell.


Thursday, August 7, 2008

Prisoners of Hope

The Frontline site at the city jail (BJMP) has really been flourishing. Because of the circumstances, it’s hard to judge whether the recent increase of members is actually good or bad. We do know, however, that each and every person at that campus is a blessing. 

Take Joel for example, an inmate turned Christ-follower. Behind bars for almost five years, he experienced a life-changing transformation when he gave his heart to Christ during one of church services. He is pictured here (in the orange t-shirt), newly released, testifying at the main Frontline campus during our Sunday morning service. 

Another previous inmate, Odie, was convicted and imprisoned numerous times over the span of 8 years. He is now an active Christ-follower who is involved in the outreaches. Since his release, he has been reaching others and helping them find their way back to God. We are expecting many more transformations... from prisoners of sin to Prisoners of Hope. 


Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Check It Oooouuuuttttt!!!!

God has been doing alot at the Frontline. As you all know, we were recently hit by Typhoon Frank and the most damage was felt by our kitchen tent.

God has never failed us and He doesn’t plan to start now. He has been faithful and has provided for a bigger and better kitchen area. 

Thank you for praying!