It was an absolute pleasure to have Shenyang International School with us for a short-term trip at the beginning of February. We and the community were blessed by their presence and servanthood. While here, they took part in a few different ministries including feedings and construction. Specifically, they helped build a home in the community and worked diligently on a storage area we are building behind the YMC. Thank you SYIS for coming, and we hope to see you again soon!
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Monday, February 28, 2011
Thursday, February 17, 2011
His Kids
I volunteer in the nursery, spend time with the older kids at the Children’s Home, and co-lead two after-school music and art clubs at the JCCV with my friend, Claire Friesen. Upon completing a year of college, I came to the Children’s Home in early October and plan to return to Virginia at the end of April. I am grateful to KIM for taking me on as I am, without a degree or any special qualifications other than my desire to love and serve. I knew, even before I came here, that these seven months were God’s gift to me, a time to learn and grow.
[caption id="attachment_1263" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Art and Music club at the JCCV is so much fun!"]
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My time here has proven to be just that—a gift—with days rich and full of challenges. The work being done here is painfully necessary: bringing food to flood victims, bathing street children, giving sickly babies another chance at life…and there is indescribable joy in doing it.
Every one of the kids at the Children’s Home has lived through loss and pain that's beyond my experience. They’ve been deprived of the sweetness of childhood, the comfort of resting in a mother’s arms, the thrill of riding high and kinglike on the shoulders of an awesome dad.
Some days I struggle to show each child the love they deserve. I want to be everything to them—mother, father, sister, brother. I want to hold them tight so that they know I’m there. I want to race across the yard to them when they cry so that they don't have to wonder for a second if anyone cares that they're hurt.
One of the lessons I’m learning is to trust God’s care for these kids. He is the one who holds them secure. He has a plan for each one, and despite the darkness that’s touched their lives, these kids are thriving.
I love the sudden smile that breaks across Christian’s face, Paulo’s half-scared pride on the monkey bars, Zerena’s crazy-crayon flowers, Princess’ funny dances and warbling songs. I love Maricel for her grace and calm; meeting my eyes at times when I’m exasperated—caught between two kids toddling in opposite directions—she just smiles, offers her hand and walks with me.
[caption id="attachment_1262" align="alignright" width="207" caption="Swinging on Tita Hannah."]
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The sights of Cris John and Kenth scampering across the grass after the visiting cats, of Tyra’s fascination with butterflies, of Yuki’s first wavering steps, and little Alex’s independence as she asserts her personhood and speaks her first words are all a delight. These kids are incredible. They never fail to fill my heart with wonder.
I am so thankful for my time here—for the friendships, the welcome, and the shy kids who have finally given me their trust. I’ve never had the opportunity to stop everything and just care for people before. That’s my only duty in these seven months—to be available to obey God and love His children. I know I’ll refer to these months for the rest of my life. God is blessing me richly. I’ve found a wealth of grace and joy that I know I’ll draw strength from and carry with me wherever I go.
-Hannah Cranston
[caption id="attachment_1263" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Art and Music club at the JCCV is so much fun!"]
[/caption]My time here has proven to be just that—a gift—with days rich and full of challenges. The work being done here is painfully necessary: bringing food to flood victims, bathing street children, giving sickly babies another chance at life…and there is indescribable joy in doing it.
Every one of the kids at the Children’s Home has lived through loss and pain that's beyond my experience. They’ve been deprived of the sweetness of childhood, the comfort of resting in a mother’s arms, the thrill of riding high and kinglike on the shoulders of an awesome dad.
Some days I struggle to show each child the love they deserve. I want to be everything to them—mother, father, sister, brother. I want to hold them tight so that they know I’m there. I want to race across the yard to them when they cry so that they don't have to wonder for a second if anyone cares that they're hurt.
One of the lessons I’m learning is to trust God’s care for these kids. He is the one who holds them secure. He has a plan for each one, and despite the darkness that’s touched their lives, these kids are thriving.
I love the sudden smile that breaks across Christian’s face, Paulo’s half-scared pride on the monkey bars, Zerena’s crazy-crayon flowers, Princess’ funny dances and warbling songs. I love Maricel for her grace and calm; meeting my eyes at times when I’m exasperated—caught between two kids toddling in opposite directions—she just smiles, offers her hand and walks with me.
[caption id="attachment_1262" align="alignright" width="207" caption="Swinging on Tita Hannah."]
[/caption]The sights of Cris John and Kenth scampering across the grass after the visiting cats, of Tyra’s fascination with butterflies, of Yuki’s first wavering steps, and little Alex’s independence as she asserts her personhood and speaks her first words are all a delight. These kids are incredible. They never fail to fill my heart with wonder.
I am so thankful for my time here—for the friendships, the welcome, and the shy kids who have finally given me their trust. I’ve never had the opportunity to stop everything and just care for people before. That’s my only duty in these seven months—to be available to obey God and love His children. I know I’ll refer to these months for the rest of my life. God is blessing me richly. I’ve found a wealth of grace and joy that I know I’ll draw strength from and carry with me wherever I go.
-Hannah Cranston
Thursday, February 10, 2011
KIM Reading Program
[caption id="attachment_1235" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Ellie engaging a student in a reading exercise"]
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Mark and Ellie Hymes first came to the Philippines in August 2009 to introduce to the Cuatro Christian School a reading program they had been using as a ministry in their home church in Kansas City, Mo. After a formal invitation to come be full-time missionaries with KIM, they decided to take an early retirement, pack up their lives and move here.
Since coming permanently in November, they’ve taught the CCS teachers how to run the reading program. Now, as of last week, they officially have their first four students.
[caption id="attachment_1236" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Mark working with one of his students"]
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While it’s always KIM’s goal to better children’s lives, Mark shared the real purpose for their being here—“It’s all about the relationships that God has us here for,” Mark said. “It might be a little awkward at first, but six months down the road, we’ll be close, and that’s where real relationships can occur.”
[/caption]Mark and Ellie Hymes first came to the Philippines in August 2009 to introduce to the Cuatro Christian School a reading program they had been using as a ministry in their home church in Kansas City, Mo. After a formal invitation to come be full-time missionaries with KIM, they decided to take an early retirement, pack up their lives and move here.
Since coming permanently in November, they’ve taught the CCS teachers how to run the reading program. Now, as of last week, they officially have their first four students.
[caption id="attachment_1236" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Mark working with one of his students"]
[/caption]While it’s always KIM’s goal to better children’s lives, Mark shared the real purpose for their being here—“It’s all about the relationships that God has us here for,” Mark said. “It might be a little awkward at first, but six months down the road, we’ll be close, and that’s where real relationships can occur.”
Monday, February 7, 2011
CCS Art Show
[caption id="attachment_1223" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Art teacher Jessica Kemnitz with students of CCS and their artwork"]
[/caption]
Jessica Kemnitz had come to the Philippines four times in the past, leading short term missions teams from Seoul Foreign School, where she taught. In November 2010, she came for a bit of a longer trip, having decided to take a year’s leave from SFS to spend some time and energy teaching art at the Cuatro Christian School.
The CCS Art Show has been an annual event.
[caption id="attachment_1225" align="alignright" width="150" caption="One of the classes at the JCCV in their art-plastered classroom"]
[/caption]
This year, Jessica had a goal of getting as much parent involvement as possible. "We want the parents to be involved in their kids' lives, including their education,” Jessica said. “Also, we want the kids to not only see what they're capable of, but what other kids and the school as a whole are capable of." Goal met. The Art Show had it's largest turnout ever, as parents, uncles, aunts, and grandparents came to the school to see the students' artwork proudly displayed on the walls. In addition, the students from the CCS and JCCV took turns migrating to each other's buildings to view the pieces of artwork.
"It was a great day, and a wonderful chance for the community to see the students' accomplishments displayed for all to see," said Jessica, who plans to stay until April.
[/caption]Jessica Kemnitz had come to the Philippines four times in the past, leading short term missions teams from Seoul Foreign School, where she taught. In November 2010, she came for a bit of a longer trip, having decided to take a year’s leave from SFS to spend some time and energy teaching art at the Cuatro Christian School.
The CCS Art Show has been an annual event.
[caption id="attachment_1225" align="alignright" width="150" caption="One of the classes at the JCCV in their art-plastered classroom"]
[/caption]This year, Jessica had a goal of getting as much parent involvement as possible. "We want the parents to be involved in their kids' lives, including their education,” Jessica said. “Also, we want the kids to not only see what they're capable of, but what other kids and the school as a whole are capable of." Goal met. The Art Show had it's largest turnout ever, as parents, uncles, aunts, and grandparents came to the school to see the students' artwork proudly displayed on the walls. In addition, the students from the CCS and JCCV took turns migrating to each other's buildings to view the pieces of artwork.
"It was a great day, and a wonderful chance for the community to see the students' accomplishments displayed for all to see," said Jessica, who plans to stay until April.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Malaybalay Update
[caption id="attachment_1206" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="The grass on the soccer field is growing!"]
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As the sixth World Race team to visit Kids International Ministries and Mt. Moriah camp in Malaybalay, “P Squad” has a little different task in front of them than previous racers. The previous squads have had one or two big projects to work on and might or might not have seen them finished.
[caption id="attachment_1205" align="alignright" width="300" caption="World Racers Cutting Bamboo Filipino style."]
[/caption]
While there are no new major building or planting projects being started right now, P Squad has the opportunity to see the finish of a number of projects that have been started by other squads, as well as complete a few important smaller projects that will improve the grounds at Mt. Moriah camp.
[caption id="attachment_1204" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Due to mud, the water tank has not always been easy to access. World Racers are helping to make the path solid and sturdy."]
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One big project that will be completed this month is to have the soccer field completely planted. S Squad worked tediously at the field with the hopes of finishing, but due to vehicle malfunctions, wasn’t able to. Now it will be in the hands of P Squad.
[/caption]As the sixth World Race team to visit Kids International Ministries and Mt. Moriah camp in Malaybalay, “P Squad” has a little different task in front of them than previous racers. The previous squads have had one or two big projects to work on and might or might not have seen them finished.
[caption id="attachment_1205" align="alignright" width="300" caption="World Racers Cutting Bamboo Filipino style."]
[/caption]While there are no new major building or planting projects being started right now, P Squad has the opportunity to see the finish of a number of projects that have been started by other squads, as well as complete a few important smaller projects that will improve the grounds at Mt. Moriah camp.
[caption id="attachment_1204" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Due to mud, the water tank has not always been easy to access. World Racers are helping to make the path solid and sturdy."]
[/caption]One big project that will be completed this month is to have the soccer field completely planted. S Squad worked tediously at the field with the hopes of finishing, but due to vehicle malfunctions, wasn’t able to. Now it will be in the hands of P Squad.
Other projects include making roads on the grounds more solid, continuing work on the chapel on grounds, taking care of children, jail ministries, working with college students in Malaybalay, and painting a mural in the Children’s Home.
Friday, January 28, 2011
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."]
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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]
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]Tuesday, January 18, 2011
From the Eyes of a World Racer
My name is Cara, and I’m a World Racer. For those unfamiliar with the World Race, it’s an 11-month mission trip to 11 countries throughout the world. My time in the Philippines is month 4 of the Race, and as such, I already have three months worth of absorbing the atrocity of poverty and injustice alongside the eclipsing power of God under my belt. I’ve hit the point where I’m craving to have the Lord “break my heart for what breaks His” while also fearing a little bit that I’ll start to grow numb to what I see.
Yet, despite being immersed in poverty for the last three months I was nearly brought to tears when I visited a tent city in Antipolo with K.I.M.’s feeding ministry this past week. I was anything but numb as my heart began to break for the physically and spiritually impoverished Filipinos I met. The need here is so great. People are starving; children are covered in infected scabs. There is something unique about this place, and God cares so much about these people that He’s entrusting me with a glimpse into His heart so that I might love them as He loves them.
K.I.M. earns my respect more and more as I am a part of how well this ministry loves Filipinos and meets their needs: spiritual, emotional and physical. K.I.M. is a light in a dark, destitute place, and it’s been a privilege to be a part of what God’s doing through them in this country.
Our group of 18 World Racers has been helping with all different facets of the ministry this month, from working with kids to prisoners, baseball players, prostitutes, social businesses and the poor and homeless. The video below shares some of what we’ve been seeing through the feeding ministry specifically.
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