Padens in the Philippines

Gilmer having the opportunity to preach at our church named CFC Partnering with the Filipino church Gilmer went to Taiwan on a short-term trip with our church Like any young person, Paul, was preparing for his future. For many in this country that means trying to apply for a job overseas in order to make better wages. He grew up in a Christian family, went to church, and was actively serving in his youth group. When he decided to join our short term missions trip to a muslim area here in Mindanao it was because he liked to travel, but soon his eyes were opened to a whole world he never knew existed. He came back from that trip changed. How could he be a Christian his whole life and not understand that there are so many who have never had a chance to even hear about Christ? What is his role in all this? What did God want to show him? We have heard from so many just like him. That’s why we are here. To teach, train, and send Filipinos. We believe that if the Filipino...

Kumusta! Hello from the Philippines! We hope you are enjoying the beautiful changes that often come with springtime.  As we all transition from one season to the next and the passing of time, it is a good habit to look back and remember God’s faithfulness in our lives. I was thinking about the rich heritage of missions work that has come from the United States and the Western Culture for centuries. Do you realize that the United States has been sending missionaries out into the uttermost parts of the world since the 1800’s; and can you name a few? We should be proud of that rich heritage! If you've gone to church in the States for very long you’ve probably been exposed to missions and the need for it. Each church looks a little different in how they choose whom to send, where to send them and how much money to designate to missions work. Whether it's signing up for vocational missions, going on a short-term trip, praying, financially support...

Merry Christmas- Maligayang Pasko- Maayong Pasko Those are the languages that we speak here in Mindanao. (Tagalog and Cebuano or commonly known as Bisaya. Bisaya is almost the same as Cebuano just adapted over time to form different words and phase from area to area.) As Gilmer introduced him at church to the mens group, they were all equally excited. The man from Luzon (the northern island where Manila is located) was excited to share about his work and opportunities he has to share with Muslims on a weekly basis. The mens group at our church were excited because they have heard about fellow filipinos reaching out to their own countrymen, but had not had a chance to meet many in person. He shared stories with them about being involved in the lives of the children by helping them in an after school tutoring program, thus opening up doors to reach their families. He shared about the community work they are involved by providing work and means for families to better support ...

One Year Already We are thankful for the opportunity God has given us to have been here in Davao City. I can't believe how fast the time has gone and I guess I better stop telling people we are new here!  So much has been going on the last few months- many open doors, and lots of answered prayers- let me show you some highlights below. PSC Retreat last March -the kids and I were not able to attend but Gilmer is in there somewhere :) Gilmer is receiving our 10 year recognition with SEND International at the retreat. We are very blessed to have been able to serve with this wonderful organization for the last 10 years! My ladies group at church Pray for Shirl, she is one of our applicants for long term service! Some of the happy graduates from the seminar we were teaching at one of our partner churches Some promotion time during a youth event in Davao in April. Gilmer's selfie at a mens retreat he was able to attend Gilmer ...