Our last few days in the Philippines were a whirlwind!!
Friday, we held both morning and afternoon Bible clubs as a continuation of VBS with Bethesda Independent Baptist Church in Quezon City. Our team split in half to conduct the meetings and had about 250 children altogether between the two. Team members taught small children, older children, and moms at each site. Then we handed out food and wrote down names of everyone in attendance so we could return the next day and pass out school supplies and rice to those who finished the courses.
Friday night we enjoyed sharing testimonies of how God used the trip in the lives of each team member. It was a sweet time of reminiscing and praising God for His work in our hearts and lives. After our team testimony time, the Tulabots let us experience authentic Korean barbecue experience on the roof of their church/school building! It was unforgettable.
Saturday, we attended 6 feeding centers that are regularly hosted by Bible college students at the Timothy Bible Institute – a ministry of Bethesda. Each week, the students trek to their feeding centers in Payatas, teach stories, lead songs and games, and provide a hot meal to the children who come. For some children, it’s the only meal they’ll eat that day.
After a quick stop for pizza, we prepared for Christmas in June at Jesus Loves Me children’s home – another ministry of Bethesda. It was a priceless experience watching each child walk through and choose a bag full of their very own goodies. We sang Christmas carols and even read the Christmas story to complete the celebration.
Saturday afternoon, we took them to the local mall and let them play on the playgrounds and eat ice cream. The looks on their faces gave us such joy and we were thankful for the opportunity to share such a special time with them!
Sunday morning we worshipped at Bethesda Independent Baptist Church. Just before Sunday school, a few of us were able to join the weekly children’s prayer meeting with Dr. Ruth Tulabot.
She and her husband, Pastor Arvin Tulabot, have been used of God in mighty ways in their community. Through their ministry, thousands of children have heard the gospel, and their body of believers has been deeply edified. We praise the Lord for allowing us to have a small part in their ministry for a few days!
Sunday afternoon we headed to the airport and, after a few delays, finally took off, headed back across the Pacific Ocean. All team members are now on to their next endeavors safe and sound. We’re thankful for God’s protection, His work in our hearts, and for each of YOU who gave and prayed to make this trip possible. To God be the glory!
