My Experience Working in Cuatro

I have been working in Cuatro for almost three months now, and my experience so far has been incredible and has certainly opened my eyes in numerous ways.

Although I grew up in the Philippines, this is the first time I have been able to completely focus myself on ministry without having to worry about attending school.  Being able to work in Cuatro and devote my time to the people that live there has been such a worthwhile experience.

[caption id="attachment_1168" align="alignleft" width="158" caption="This is the CH kids' favorite past-time."][/caption]

I divide up my time between the Children’s Home and the elementary school (JCCV), and I have enjoyed both for various reasons.  At the Children’s Home I help out with the nursery kids, and I’ve found that this job is a lot more exhausting and stretching than I would have expected.  All the kids come from various backgrounds, and have had experiences in their childhood that no one should experience.  Because of this, there are many different behavioral issues that arise on any given day.  I often come to the conclusion that I am way over my head, and have absolutely no idea how to handle some of the kids’ behavioral problems.  But God often asks us to do things that we are uncomfortable doing, and in this way He stretches us and shows His power through our weakness.  I have grown to love the kids at the Children’s Home.  It’s really great coming day in and day out, and recognizing faces, and learning about each of the children's lives.

[caption id="attachment_1171" align="alignright" width="203" caption="Hanging out with street kids in Cuatro."][/caption]

Although I am only here in the Philippines for 6 months, I feel like I am really experiencing a slice of what missionary work truly is.  I have begun to understand more and more that there are always struggles and setbacks to any ministry, and that some days are especially hard or tiring.  But there is also so much joy in ministry.

Sometimes when I step outside of the Children’s Home gate, I am accosted by street kids who want to hold my hand, and who walk with me down the street.  This brings my heart so much joy, because I get to connect with kids whose life experiences I do not share or comprehend.  It’s so awesome how love and kindness can break the barriers between different cultures, languages and experiences.

[caption id="attachment_1170" align="alignleft" width="180" caption="Jessica, who I assist in teaching, and some of the students at the JCCV."][/caption]

On the days that I am not at the nursery I’m assisting another teacher with art classes at the elementary school.  I love getting to know the kids at the school, and hanging out with them in-between classes.  The students are so inquisitive and open to new friendships, and I have felt so welcomed by all of them.  After school on a couple days each week my friend Hannah and I lead an art and music club.  It has been a great way to get to know the kids better outside of school, and we all end up having so much fun together.

Over all, these last 3 months working in Cuatro have been so rich and beautiful.  Being able to be on a “missions” trip that lasts more than 2 weeks is so beneficial.  It is great being able to build relationships with people that I know I won’t have to leave within just a couple weeks.  Ever since I was 16 I knew that I wanted to be a missionary serving the poor in some capacity, and working in Cuatro has allowed me to get a better idea of what that looks like in real life.  I will certainly refer to these 6 months for years to come, and remember what a blessed and growing experience it was.

--Claire Friesen

[caption id="attachment_1169" align="aligncenter" width="573" caption="Taking the kids from the CH for a swim."][/caption]