Youth Mobilization

JKKCC 2nd Water Baptism in 2011

2012-01-13T11:15:00.004+08:00

This year 2012, as we continue the journey that God has called to undertake, believing that indeed, this is the year of the Lord's double portion of harvest, I am reminded of God's faithfulness last year. As a testimony of His abiding presence and amazing love, fifteen (15) members of Jesus King of Kings Community Church (JKKCC) decided to follow the Lord Jesus through water baptism last November 30, 2011, in a private pool resort in Calamba, Laguna. It is a wonderful ending to fruitful year in the ministry and at the same, a preview of what we can expect from the Lord for the coming year. Indeed there will be more this year who will commit themselves to fully following Jesus for the harvest truly will be plentiful! To God be all the glory indeed!

TESTIMONY TIME

ACTUAL IMMERSION IN WATER

YM 2012 Planning Retreat

2012-01-11T23:37:00.000+08:00

2012 - The Year of The Lord's Double Portion of Harvest
By Joshua Benavidez

There's no other fitting way to end the planning part of our team's retreat than to serve one another. We did just that, obeying the Lord's command, by washing each other's feet on the second night of our 3-day, 2-night stay at the Rizal Re-Creation Center in Rizal, Laguna.

Twenty of the twenty-six members of the Youth Mobilization went to that retreat center from January 5 to 7 for our annual Planning and Recreational Team Retreat. The other six didn't make it because of various reasons such as conflict in schedule (for those of us who are studying), sickness, etc.

We arrived on the first day late in the afternoon just in time for dinner and then we spent the rest of the night to settle down after listening for a few minutes to the briefing and orientation I gave. The planning part happened on the second day as each one listened again to their team leader for the general direction the team is heading, as what the Lord has impressed in my heart, for the year 2012.

It has become a tradition for me to share what the Lord is putting in my heart. I told them that if last year was "Walking on Water", then for 2012, it will be the year of experiencing the "Double portion of the Lord's Harvest". I added that in 2011, the team experienced some difficulties and challenges, just like what Peter experienced - the wind and the wave, when he walked on water. In spite of those challenges, the Lord has proven that we will still be able to pursue what He has called us to do because of His faithfulness.

He was the one who carried us through - He provided for all our needs, both in the ministry and in our personal lives, in spite of losing some of our major donors. Some of our team members also returned to their respective countries which resulted to having lesser manpower and yet, we still manage to do all of our ministry and we actually expanded many of our outreach ministries.

2011 was also a year of sowing. I remember telling my team not to be impatient but to wait for the Lord's right timing. It's not easy to plant and to sow because you have to wait for the right time for the planted seeds to grow, mature and then bear fruit. I encouraged each one to wait patiently because soon, the Lord's tome to harvest will come.

Indeed, it shall come and as what the Lord has placed in my heart, we believe that this is that year. This is the year we will see not just a harvest but a double portion of harvest. I challenged my team to believe God for great things, just like what William Carey, the father of modern missions once said, "Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God!"

Coming from that morning session, the afternoon was spent in group meetings (each ministry team met to finalize their plans for 2012) and then each ministry presented their plans for 2012 with much excitement and expectation from the Lord. That wonderful second day was culminated by washing each other's feet.

On our last day, Mackie, one of our training coordinators led the team building exercise in the morning and afterwards the team used the remaining time for swimming, sleeping and relaxing.

More on the 2011 Christmas Parties

2012-01-10T23:35:00.003+08:00

Batang KrayolaChristmas Party 2011 Summary Report

Written by Kristofer Purificacion (BatangKrayola Ministry Leader)

John-John (the main character in the skit we used forthe Gospel presentation), is just like many typical Filipino children who thinkthat Christmas is only for the material things they can receive. That way ofthinking changed, when we held our Christmas parties in different parts of thecountry starting on the first week of December. Many children realized that Christmas is all about the love pf Jesus andbecause of that great love He brought salvation to all mankind.

We held a total of 10 parties for our partnerchurches’ street children’s ministry and more than 1100 kids attended, heardthe Gospel and received gifts. The veryfirst parties were held in Metro Manila. Two were held in Makati on December 3, one in the morning and one in theafternoon. Immediately the day after,our team went to Tiaong, Quezon (a three-hour drive from Manila) to hold ourthird Christmas party.

Then on December 7, another party was held inCaloocan, where our partner church ministers to children living near the formerdumpsite popularly called “Smokey Mountain”. Majority of our parties were held on December 10. The team, early in the morning, went toBataan and Olongapo to hold parties in four different areas, while our teamleader, Joshua, stayed in Manila to join the IT Tender Christmas party.

The last one was held in Makati on December 17 when wecombined the Day Care kids and our BK Street Children’s ministry for one bigChristmas party.

We are thankful to the Lord that in spite ofuncertainties we faced months before the actual parties, the Lord has provenonce again that He loves the street children and He won’t let the parties to be cancelled this year. He provided for all the needs of theChristmas Parties which include the gift bags, food and other essential things.

Each child received a gift bag that contains schoolsupplies, hygiene products and materials, toys and a snack. We are so thankful for all those who prayed,volunteered and gave so that we can hold all the parties. We are thankful also to God for ExtremeResponse for the 1100 toys they gave and the funds they sent which helped us ina big way.

Christmas Parties 2011

2012-01-07T14:17:00.002+08:00

Last December, we held a total of 10 Christmas parties for the street children through our church partners. 1100 kids received gifts last Christmas. The first one was held last December 6 while the last one on December 17. We are thankful to the Lord for all who prayed and supported these parties.

Best Christmas Ever!

2012-01-03T19:49:00.004+08:00

Christmas 2011 was my40th and I could say that it was my best ever. The Lord indeed has been good to me, my family and ministry in 2011 andHe reserved the best for the last. Christmas has never been this good! Around our table on Christmas Eve, there sat 12, instead of the usual4. Aside from Anne, Lois and Josiah, mymom also came for Noche Buena - a Filipino tradition where family members cometogether at 12 midnight on Christmas Eve to eat the traditional Christmasmeal. Nikko, who wants to be called Elisha, ourunofficial adopted son, joined us as well. To complete the cast, 6 Aetas joined us, the kids we adopted just forChristmas.

Noche Buena with Elisha, my mom and our 6 Aeta kids

We first met these kids6 years ago when we first started a ministry in a mountain in Morong, Bataan, working among Aetas. Cynthia, the eldest, was just 10 years oldthen. A few years after, one of theirsiblings, Ishmael, the only boy, became the “darling of the YM team” because ofhis sweetness and his unique ability to get our attention and to make uslaugh. He loves to dance and possessessome funny antics that you won't suspect would come from a two year oldboy. Now he's six.

The life of an Aeta isplain and simple. They don't havemuch - no electricity, no running water,and nothing of the things we enjoy and sometimes take for granted in the city. But in spite of their situation, they are thehappiest people in the world, at least that's what I have observed in the 6years that I have served in their community. They know how to have fun and every time I look at them I see a smile ontheir faces. They may not have many things, but for as long as they have theironly treasure - their family, nothingbeats the life of an Aeta.

Such is the life ofCynthia (16), Esperanza (14), Esmeralda (12), Ishmael (6), Mikey (4) and Marian(1).

Who would have knownthat in an instant, everything can change for the worse? When we held our VBS last summer (May 2011)in their community, their father was sick and was confined in a hospital. Two months after, he died of Tuberculosis. Asickness considered as non-fatal but because they don't have enough for hisproper nutrition and medicine he died needlessly. Four months later, barely a month beforeChristmas, their mother passed away. Many suspect that she took her own life because of severe depression.

Now, these six kidssuddenly were left on their own.

As for us, when we heardof the news, our Christmas schedule was already on its full swing. It was our busiest Christmas ever. Our schedule includes 10 Christmas partiesfor the street children, 4 reunions (family and former classmates), 4 churchChristmas parties and activities, and many other events we usually do duringthe Christmas season which includes gift giving for street dwellers.

Although we were sobusy, we decided to take action for those kids. We talked to the board of the church and unanimously, we agreed to adoptthe 6 kids for Christmas. Our familywill keep them from December 23 to 28, while the church will alternate inbringing them to amusement parks, malls and play grounds. We also agreed to buy them new clothes, shoesand groceries.

At SM Manila for their Christmas shopping

Help also came from somany people who knew them. Adopting themthis Christmas only became possible because of the unity and support of so manypeople who truly love and care for the Aetas.

The six days the sixAeta kids spent with us came so fast. They have seen places they have never seen before. Places they will surely talk for the rest oftheir lives. They went home with newclothes, shoes and food supplies that will last for weeks. To top it all, theynow have new hope for the future. Theyare now assured of God's love through the many that showed love and gave theirsupport.

They still will face somany challenges but they will never forget what they have experienced lastChristmas. Just like when Jesus came twothousand years ago. It was Earth'sdarkest hour, when hopelessness abounds, and then the Angels came to announcethat the Savior was born. Light, lifeand hope came.

Now, we can see the samefor the six Aetas. There will be toughtime ahead, but just like what they have experienced last Christmas, there willalways be hope for them in Jesus.

Now I know why this ismy best Christmas ever!

God Never Makes Mistakes!

2011-11-06T05:50:00.000+08:00

This is another good one from Chuck Keortge! Thanks Chuck for the email!

Wrong Funeral

Consumed by my loss, I didn't notice the hardnessof the pew where I sat. I was at the funeral of my dearest friend - my mother.She finally had lost her long battle with cancer. The hurt was so intense; Ifound it hard to breathe at times. Always supportive, Mother clapped loudest atmy school plays, held box of tissues while listening to my first heartbreak,comforted me at my father's death, encouraged me in college, and prayed for memy entire life.

When mother’s illness was diagnosed, my sister hada new baby and my brother had recently married his childhood sweetheart, so itfell on me, the 27-year-old middle child without entanglements, to take care ofher. I counted it an honor. 'What now, Lord?' I asked sitting in church.

My life stretched out before me as an empty abyss.My brother sat stoically with his face toward the cross while clutching hiswife's hand. My sister sat slumped against her husband’s shoulder, his armsaround her as she cradled their child... All so deeply grieving, no one noticedI sat alone. My place had been with our mother, preparing her meals, helpingher walk, taking her to the doctor, seeing to her medication, reading the Bibletogether. Now she was with the Lord. My work was finished, and I was alone.

I heard a door open and slam shut at the back ofthe church. Quick footsteps hurried along the carpeted floor. An exasperatedyoung man looked around briefly and then sat next to me. He folded his handsand placed them on his lap. His eyes were brimming with tears. He began tosniffle. 'I'm late,' he explained, though no explanation was necessary.

After several eulogies, he leaned over andcommented, 'Why do they keep calling Mary by the name of 'Margaret?'' 'Because,that was her name, Margaret. Never Mary, no one called her 'Mary,'' Iwhispered.

I wondered why this person couldn't have sat on theother side of the church. He interrupted my grieving with his tears andfidgeting. Who was this stranger anyway?

'No, that isn't correct,' he insisted, as severalpeople glanced over at us whispering, 'Her name is Mary, Mary Peters.' 'Thatisn't who this is.'

'Isn't this the Lutheran church?'

'No, the Lutheran church is across the street.'

'Oh.'

'I believe you're at the wrong funeral, Sir.' Thesolemnness of the occasion mixed with the realization of the man's mistakebubbled up inside me and came out as laughter. I cupped my hands over my face,hoping it would be interpreted as sobs. The creaking pew gave me away. Sharplooks from other mourners only made the situation seem more hilarious.

I peeked at the bewildered, misguided man seatedbeside me. He was laughing; too, as he glanced around, deciding it was too latefor an uneventful exit. I imagined Mother laughing.

At the final 'Amen,' we darted out a door and intothe parking lot. 'I do believe we'll be the talk of the town,' he said,smiling. He said his name was Rick and since he had missed his aunt's funeral,asked me out for a cup of coffee.

That afternoon began a lifelong journey for me withthis man who attended the wrong funeral, but was in the right place. A yearafter our meeting, we were married at a country church where he was theassistant pastor.

This time we both arrived at the same church, righton time... In my time of sorrow, God gave me laughter. In place of loneliness,God gave me love. Thispast June, we celebrated our 22nd wedding anniversary.Whenever anyone asks us how we met, Rick tells them, 'Her mother and my AuntMary introduced us, and it's truly a match made in heaven.'

If you Love God, and are not ashamed of all themarvelous things he has done for you, send this on to others. REMEMBER, Goddoesn't make mistakes. He puts us where we are to be.

Training Day Friday - Leader Mundial Summit Comes to Manila

2011-11-04T13:12:00.000+08:00

"You are not alone!"

The best words I have ever heard from Russ Cline way back in 2007 when Leader Mundial Summit in Quito, Ecuador commenced for the first time. True indeed, ever since that day, God used Russ, the summit and a community of great global leaders to show me that I was not alone. They were there during the toughest times of my life and ministry and they continue to do so after many years of being part of the summit's community. Whether in my high or low moments, they never let go. For sure it is God working through them to make me experience His loving-kindness and amazing love.

Now five summits in Quito later and four years after, God brought the same spirit and vision here in the Philippines. What started as a dream two years ago when Russ visited Manila and scouted for a place, is now a reality.

We declared the same thing, "You are not alone," to the Filipino pastors who participated in Leader Mundial Manila Summit. Thirty-seven (37) of us converged in Ciudad Christia Nine Waves Resort for a 4-day summit. That includes ten (10) pastors and their spouses, the Youth Mobilization team and the IT Tender Ministry team. From October 26 to 29, we learned, played, worshiped and prayed together.

No one was indeed alone.

It was a great time to see the fun, the laughter, the tears, and the excitement in everyone! What a great start! Another community was born. Everyone is now looking forward for the next summit. To God be the glory indeed!

2011-10-09T20:18:00.001+08:00

Check out this link:

http://leadonesource.org/bound-by-the-spirit/

It is an article I wrote for Leader Munidal.

Touch Trips Thursday - Hygiene Clinic

2011-09-22T07:42:00.004+08:00

We praise God for the opportunity He is giving us to serve Him through YM’sministry called Touch Trip. It is adouble edged sword indeed; as we are able to minister to the needs of the poorand at the same time mobilize youth leaders for mission outreach.

This time the HygieneClinic was held at a community outreach of Tent of Praise,one of YM’s partner churches, in San Roque, Pateros, last September 17, 2011. Close to200 street children came while 12 youth leaders from four of YM’s partnerchurches came to volunteer for this event geared towards promoting good healthand proper hygiene to poor communities.

Che-Che Torredes, YM’sTouch Trip ministry leader, helped in coordinating and raising the much neededresources for the Hygiene Clinic. Shewas also responsible in mobilizing the said youth leaders and she would like toextend her thanksgiving to those who helped, volunteered and gave so that theHygiene Clinic became a success. Shesaid, “First of all, I praise and thank God for the people who volunteered& supported the Hygiene Clinic of Tent of Praise. Indeed your labor and love are not in vain andour God is exalted through the sharing of your lives to His beloved people. ToGod be all the glory.

Humorous Sunday

2011-09-04T22:05:00.000+08:00

Got this one from one of Chuck Keortge's email to me; hope it fills your heart with laughter too as it did mine.

Summary of Life

GREAT TRUTHS THAT LITTLE CHILDREN HAVE LEARNED:

1) No matter how hard you try, you can't baptize cats..
2) When your Mom is mad at your Dad, don't let her brush your hair.
3) If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person.
4) Never ask your 3-year old brother to hold a tomato.
5) You can't trust dogs to watch your food..
6) Don't sneeze when someone is cutting your hair..
7) Never hold a Dust-Buster and a cat at the same time.
8) You can't hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.
9) Don't wear polka-dot underwear under white shorts.
10) The best place to be when you're sad is Grandma's lap.

GREAT TRUTHS THAT ADULTS HAVE LEARNED:

1) Raising teenagers is like nailing jelly to a tree.
2) Wrinkles don't hurt.
3) Families are like fudge...mostly sweet, with a few nuts
4) Today's mighty oak is just yesterday's nut that held its ground...
5) Laughing is good exercise. It's like jogging on the inside.
6) Middle age is when you choose your cereal for the fiber, not the toy..

GREAT TRUTHS ABOUT GROWING OLD

1) Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional...
2) Forget the health food. I need all the preservatives I can get.
3) When you fall down, you wonder what else you can do while you're down there.
4) You're getting old when you get the same sensation from a rocking chair that you once got from a roller coaster.
5) It's frustrating when you know all the answers but nobody bothers to ask you the questions...
6) Time may be a great healer, but it's a lousy beautician
7) Wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone.

THE FOUR STAGES OF LIFE:

1) You believe in Santa Claus.
2) You don't believe in Santa Claus.
3) You are Santa Claus..
4) You look like Santa Claus.

SUCCESS:

At age 04 success is . . . . Not piddling in your pants.
At age 12 success is . . . . Having friends.
At age 17 success is . . . . Having a driver's license.
At age 35 success is . . . . having money.
At age 50 success is . . . . Having money..
At age 70 success is . . . . Having a driver’s license.
At age 75 success is . . . . Having friends.
At age 80 success is . . . . Not piddling in your pants.

Touch Trips Thursday - Hygiene Clinic

2011-09-02T00:09:00.000+08:00

The Youth Mobilization is helping one of its partner churches, the Tent ofPraise in holding a hygiene clinic for one of its ministry outreaches. The event which includes various activities that promote proper hygieneand good health such as nail and hair cutting, dental care, and taking a bath,is designed specifically to help poor communities. More than 100 Kids from ages4 to 12 are expected to arrive on September 17 in a community in San Roque,Pateros (about an hour away from the YM office).

Pleasepray for the following:

1. Weare looking for YOUTH VOLUNTEERS who will take part in this great missionexperience

2.Pray for provision for hygiene materials, such as soap, shampoo, tooth paste,tooth brush, etc.

3.Pray also for opportunities to share the Gospel to the community through thisevent.

An Opportunity Taken to Sow a Seed of Love!

2011-08-26T12:18:00.006+08:00

Last August 13, 2011, 7 young people from two of YM's partner churches (5 from Family Christian Church and 2 from Hills of Savior Church) in Olongapo City, Zambales, together with their Senior Pastor endured an 8-hour drive to participate in our Mini Touch Trip in partnership with Pastor Junie and his Seed of Love Ministry.

The Seed of Love ministry launched a Medical and Dental Mission in Tiaong, Quezon that day to help another partner church of YM, the Lord Jesus' Bible Church Global Ministry - Tiaong.

It is really awesome to see when churches and ministries come together for a common purpose - to reach out to the community by meeting their physical needs and at the same time meeting their spiritual needs by sharing the love and Good News of Jesus Christ. A wonderful opportunity taken indeed to sow a seed of love!

More than 200 people came to receive medical and dental care. This event will surely leave a great impact in the ministry of Pastor Ariel and his wife, Marlyn who have been ministering to the people of Tiaong since 1999. YM has been in partnership with their church since 2008 and YM traces its early beginnings to Pastor Ariel's ministry when for the first time, YM held a youth mission trip in Tiaong, Quezon way back in 2002. The couple's vision is to help kids and young people alike to reach their limitless potential and calling in Christ. They can be reached through their email address - marlyn_danas@yahoo.com.ph.

On the other hand, Pastor Junie Antinero and his wife Dr. Aura (a licensed dentist) started the Seed of Love Ministry in 2009 after their youngest son experienced two life-threatening diseases - the Kawasaki disease and Dengue Fever. In both times, their son almost died, and both times too, they experienced God's healing miracle and generous provision. They also saw the plight of many poor Filipino families who unlike them had no means to give their loved ones proper medical attention. Many die needlessly, hopeless and helpless. Their experiences turned into a burden that pushed them to start the Seed of Love Ministry. In sowing seeds of love, people will once again discover that there is hope, love and life in Jesus. To know more about Pastor Junie and his Seed of Love ministry, kindly go to http://seedoflove2009.blogspot.com/.

SEED OF LOVE MEDICAL AND DENTAL MISSION IN TIAONG, QUEZON

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: MARLYN, DR. AU, SAM (PASTOR ARIEL'S SON) & PASTOR ARIEL

PASTOR JUNIE (STANDING) BRIEFING ALL THE VOLUNTEER STAFF

PASTOR ALDEN (FAR LEFT) WITH YOUTH FROM OLONGAPO AND CHE-CHE (YM'S TOUCH TRIPS COORDINATOR)

RACHEL ANN, ANOTHER YOUTH VOLUNTEER (FROM CHRIST TO THE WORLD CHRISTIAN CHURCH)

DR. AU WITH ANOTHER VOLUNTEER DENTIST TREATING ONE OF THE MANY PATIENTS

EACH ONE WHO CAME RECEIVED MEDICINE AND A BIBLE TRACT

NIKKO (FROM JKKCC), THE OFFICIAL CAMERA MAN WANTING HIS BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKED

CHE-CHE TAKING PART IN THE COUNSELLING

PASTOR ALDEN AND HIS TEAM MEETING THE SPIRITUAL NEEDS TOO OF THOSE WHO CAME

9 Waves Ocular (for the Leader Mundial Summit in Manila)

2011-08-24T19:07:00.003+08:00

The Youth Mobilization today takes a day off from their usual Wednesday team meeting to visit Ciudad Christhia Resort 9 Waves. Ciudad Christhia Resort 9 Waves is a refreshing resort in San Mateo, Rizal, Philippines, notable for their impressive wave pool, excellent accommodations, natural scenic landscapes and fun- filled recreational facilities.

It will be the site of Leader Mundial (LM) Summit in Manila this coming October 26 to 29. A total of 35 Filipino pastors, their spouses and other ministry leaders are expected to attend this wonderful opportunity to learn from leadership experts. We’re blessed this year to have the following speakers: Russ Cline (Leader Mundial/San Juan Capistrano, California), Ellis Pitman (Orange County Southern Baptist Association/San Juan Capistrano, California), and Dan McCann (G E Foodland, Inc/Carrollton, Texas). To learn more about Leader Mundial, you can visit the following websites: (1) http://www.leadermundial.com/; (2) http://leadonesource.org/.

Moreover, this summit is also an opportunity for pastors to relax and take some time off from their hectic and often times day-off-less schedules. Lastly, one of the goals of this conference is to create a community – to deepen the relationship between each attending leader and at the same time learn how to network with one another.

Here are some pictures we candidly took while doing the ocular inspection:

YM Prayer Requests:

1. YM will launch its website soon! Please pray for wisdom as we decide what information we will include in the website. Please pray also for provision as we need approximately 300$ for the administrator annual fee and domain name.

2. Continue to pray for the additional 4 bikes we need for our staff and team members. Each bike cost approximately 125$.

3. Please pray for the remaining 4 other young people who applied for a UK visa. Of the 7 others who took, only Anne was given a visa, the rest were denied. They were invited by Stospley Baptist Church for a 10-day mission exposure trip in Luton, England.

4. Pray also for new team members and new supporters for the YM team.

Humorous Sunday - "I Didn't Recognize You"

2011-08-21T14:52:00.000+08:00

A little of something from the lighter side of life. This is one of my favorites! Thanks once again Chuck Keortge for sharing this.

(I heard this on a Spanish language radio station recently. Hope you like it. - Chuck)

A forty year old man was involved in a traffic accident and ended up talking to St. Peter in heaven.

He was told, “You shouldn’t be here yet . You have another forty years to live.” A few days later the man awakened from his coma and made a speedy recovery.

He went right out and began to plan the next forty years of his life. He bought a red Corvette. He had a hair transplant. He joined a gym and started to diet. He lost 52 pounds and gained some muscle. He bought a new wardrobe and grew a moustache. He started to apply himself at work and got a promotion and a raise. He began to attend church every Sunday and became much more considerate of his wife and would play with his children. He even began to regularly put something in the offering plate.

Six months later while down town for some business, he stepped off of the curb, was hit by bus and was killed instantly. When he again confronted St. Peter the man was angry. “How could this happen? You promised me forty more years,” he complained.

St. Peter shrugged his shoulders and replied, “Sorry, I didn’t recognize you”.

BK Saturday - Market Day

2011-08-20T22:16:00.000+08:00

Please pray for our upcoming activity for the street children of Makati! Pray for God's provision and that we will be able to meet our target objective for this event!

Theme: "Buwan ng Pakikilahok" (Participation Month)
Objective: To encourage the children to recite and to participate in discussions, games, lessons and group activities.
Target # of Kids: 30
Estimated Budget: P10,320 (approximately 250$)

Most street children we have encountered since we started the Batang Krayola ministry are often shy and quiet. This is due to low self esteem and lack of proper communication. Simply put, they lack the social skills to be able to properly interact with other people. This is evident even when they go to school and whenever we hold Bible lessons for them. So our goal is to see them become an active participant whether in playing games or when studying. We want to see them reciting with confidence. We want them to understand that they can speak what is in their heart and mind and they will be listened to.

Bikes for Mission Outreach

2011-08-16T23:00:00.002+08:00

Two weeks ago, we were able to buy two bicycles for our staff. It is such a big help to our staff as they go to the office everyday and as they go visit church members in the community. They can save money for transportation and at the same time get the much needed exercise. They save time too as they are not hindered by traffic anymore especially when they go from one community to another for follow-up and visitation.

Thank you for those who supported us for this project and continue to pray for provision as we are still targeting to buy 4 more bicycles for 5000 pesos each (about 125 dollars each).

Barber Shop by Chuck Keortge

2011-08-14T21:59:00.003+08:00

Barber Shop

by Charles Keortge (2011)

The town barber shop has long been know as a place to swap stories and to light-heartedly complain.. Two years ago after moving to a different house I found myself still in need of a new barber. I set about looking for a new person who could meet or exceed the minimum standards that I had set.

I tried a franchise shop. Hair Choppers, or something like that. I think I went three times. It was operated by young women with pink and purple hair who, in less than five minutes turned me around and pushed me out the door.

I saw what I thought was a more traditional place but when I finally found him open I also found him basically disinterested in cutting hair. Just as the soldiers from WWII whose photos hung on his walls were now disinterested in fighting a war. Who could blame him after 60 years?

My hair got long and I kept up the search. Then I found Get a Hair Cut. Where are you going? I’m going to Get a Hair Cut. It took me a while to catch on. The first time I went was in October and I found it decorated in rubber heads with plenty of fake blood. But I got a good hair cut at a fair price and so I returned. I tried all of the three barbers and I settled on the tall one with the pony tail and tattoos. He is one of the nicest barbers I have ever been barbered by. He is pleasant, intelligent, knows how to listen, and knows how to talk. He has to be excused for not using a razor but then no one does with AIDS lurking around the slightest scratch..

I always wait for him even it means 20 minutes extra. I tip him more than most. I enjoy my time. Read a few magazines and listen.

Today was my day at the barber shop

When I arrived the place was full. The three barber chairs were humming and clipping. The waiting customers wondering if they would get called in the order they had arrived. I did what I usually do. I found a chair next to the magazine rack and looked for something to read. To my left was a young woman with sun glasses who didn’t look up. On my far left was a man I really didn’t notice.

But then it all changed.

The barber chair to my right finished with a little boy and the fellow on the left who had been on deck was up to bat. As he moved toward his appointed place I couldn’t help but notice that he was a thin young man who seemed to be stripped of his muscles and that he was pushing a walker. He climbed up in the chair and the woman manning the station

listened while she went to work.

In a few minutes he was telling her, and that meant all of us in that small shop, about how he had found out that he had Lou Gerhig’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. He moved chronologically from when he first had trouble moving and how he fell out of the bed of his pick up truck and finally went to the doctor and ended up in a research hospital and that he had about six months to live and that he had a wife and children. He joked about how he had a celebrity’s disease but was no celebrity. I had left my cap in the car and so he glanced at me and commented that he would much rather be bald than to have ALS. I tried to smile back and said that I agreed. It was a weak smile. He made his way down from the big chair and walked his walker out the door. His neighbor who had provided transportation stayed behind and told the barber that his friend was not expected live much more than two months.

The barber, who suddenly realized that she was one of the main actors in this drama, playing to a small audience, explained to us that we had missed Act One and that the young woman who had been sitting next to me, whose boy was in the chair immediately before the walker man, had given her a $20 bill in a shop where only $10 is required. Peering from behind her big dark glasses the mother had thanked the barber for her patience with her young son and that the hair cut she gave was for the boy to wear to his daddy’s funeral tomorrow. She had been crying throughout her son’s hair cut.

What I didn’t say was that I thought I knew the identity of the deceased father, a young man whose obit I had read in yesterday’s newspaper. The cause of death was not given. Later in the day someone had called me and told me about it and said that he was told it was a death by suicide by hanging.

Then it was my turn to step up. I patiently waited while my barber swept the floor and cleaned the chair and at last gave me a welcoming smile. We chatted about the guitars hanging on the walls and how he thought they were like art even though he was a drummer. I said that I liked guitar music, especially acoustical. He gave me a mirror and I complimented his work and gave him the usual tip.

It had been my day at the barber shop.

Training Day Friday - Walking On Water (Windows YP 2011)

2011-08-12T20:23:00.001+08:00

Walking On Water
Windows YP 2011 (Youth Missions Conference)

Written by Anne Benavidez & Murray Melmick

Last May, we had a successful Missions Conference. Thirty one youth leaders attended the said conference coming from different churches in Manila, Olongapo, Bataan and Zambales. The Missions conference theme was “Walk on Water” because we desire that the youth leaders will dare to step out of the comfort of their “boats” to walk in the impossible in obeying the Lord for the work of missions.

While preparing for the Windows YP conference, I was facing a decision whether we will push through with the missions camp in the facilities of New Tribes Mission or we'll just do the conference at the YM office. During that time we only have one week to go and only a handful have registered yet. If only a few will register we were thinking of just bringing the youth leaders to the YM office. The only problem with the YM office was it was too small to accommodate more than 20 youth leaders and it was too late for us to look for a new venue. As I was asking the Lord for wisdom on what to do, the Lord impressed in my heart to push through with the original plan to hold the conference at New Tribes mission because it will be a prophetic gesture if we will do that.

The Lord reminded me of the 15 youth leaders who were mostly Aetas (a tribal group in the Philippines) whom we have invited for the conference to give their testimonies. The Lord impressed to me that He will have a new move among the Aetas that He will call His new breed of missionaries coming from these tribal group. With that word from the Lord, I finally decided to obey the Lord and “walk on water” trusting Him that he will be the One who will bring other youth leaders to attend our first missions conference. They did come, thirty one of them, thirty one youth leaders whose lives have never been the same after the conference.

The mission conference was an opportunity for youth leaders from different parts of the Philippines to establish relationships with each other and to encourage each other in the shared desire to serve Jesus Christ through the mission field. These young leaders experienced sessions, workshops, and team building activities to assist their personal development as young missionaries in an interactively fun way. The workshops and sessions played an important role for the practical growth for the individual experience, as well as creating a community among the young missionaries. As fruitful as the sessions and workshops were the real impact came from the testimonies, recreational time and time spent worshiping the Lord.

The last night we had a big bonfire and worshiped our Lord under the open stars. Worshiping Christ with these young missionaries around the bon fire, I will personally always hold this night in my heart. As two young tribal ladies' shared their testimonies, everyone listened with tearful eyes and joyful hearts. Many of the youth could fully relate to the trials these ladies have faced the testimonies, recreational time and time spent worshiping the Lord. The last night we had a big bonfire and worshiped our Lord under the open stars. Worshiping Christ with these young missionaries around the bon fire, I will personally always hold this night in my heart. As two young tribal ladies' shared their testimonies, everyone listened with tearful eyes and joyful hearts. Many of the youth could fully relate to the trials these ladies have faced.

The one problem with Windows YP that everyone could agree on was that it was not nearly long enough. In terms of touching the lives of youth and helping enable them to serve Christ through missions; Windows YP was a huge success.

Three weeks after the mission conference three youth leaders who attended Windows YP traveled to Muntilupa, Alabang to work with street children at the drop in center. God is truly on the move in the Philippines, it is encouraging to know that there are intelligent God fearing youth that are on the move with Him. Youth that responds to the call of Jesus and is willing to step out of the boat, with their eyes fixed on Christ showing the world that it is possible to walk on water.

(NOTE: Pictures taken during the conference were posted last July 16, 2011)

Tent of Praise - Hygiene Clinic

2011-07-30T22:28:00.001+08:00

JKKCC Second Half of the Year Activities

2011-07-26T20:43:00.001+08:00

As we are now at the second half of the year, kindly pray for the following activities of the Jesus King of Kings Community Church (JKKCC):

1. August 26 - Day Care Ministry Family Day - A time for families of the kids who attend the Day Care to gather for a time of fun, encouragement, learning and fellowship.

2. August 27 - Market Day (Batang Krayola) - Our goal is to teach street children the value of participating in any activities they are involved in so that they will actively do so in real life situations whether it is done in their family, school, church or community.

3. September 23-24 - Bible Seminar - Our main objectives are: 1. Encourage members to a deeper study of the Bible; 2. Rejuvenate the spirit of each church member; 3. Push members to “apply what they have been studying”; 4. To expose members to other environment/speaker/church/ministry.

4. October 15 - Hygiene Day - To promote good health and proper hygiene among the street children and their families.

5. October 22 - Jericho March - To pray for a community so that we can effectively reach them with the Gospel of Christ and at the same time be sensitive to the Lord on how we can minister to the people.

6. October 31 - November 9 - UK Mission Trip - 8 Filipino young people will go to Luton, England in partnership with Stospley Baptist Church for a mission exposure trip.

7. November 4 & 5 - Prayer and Fasting

8. December 9 - Day Care Christmas Party

9. December 18 - Church Christmas Party

10. Every Last Sunday of the month - Missions Sunday

Word for this Sunday - Forty

2011-07-25T01:08:00.001+08:00

Forty

by Joshua Benavidez

Exactly 40 years ago, God brought me in to this world. So I decided to look for the significance of the number forty in the Bible. Here’s what I found:

1. The Flood during Noah’s time

(Genesis 7:4) Seven days from now I will send rain on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and I will wipe from the face of the earth every living creature I have made."

(Genesis 7:12) And rain fell on the earth forty days and forty nights.

2. Isaac’s age when he married Rebekah

(Gen 25:20) and Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan Aram and sister of Laban the Aramean.

3. The number of days for Jacob’s embalming

(Genesis 50:3) taking a full forty days, for that was the time required for embalming. And the Egyptians mourned for him seventy days.

4. God fed the Israelites manna for forty years

(Exodus 16:35) The Israelites ate manna forty years, until they came to a land that was settled; they ate manna until they reached the border of Canaan.

5. For this number of days and nights, Moses stayed on the mountain the first time he received the 10 commandments

(Exodus 24:18) Then Moses entered the cloud as he went on up the mountain. And he stayed on the mountain forty days and forty nights.

(Exodus 34:28) Moses was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights without eating bread or drinking water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant--the Ten Commandments.

6. Moses sent 12 spies and they spent 40 days to explore the whole land

(Numbers 13:25) At the end of forty days they returned from exploring the land.

7. Because of the people’s disobedience, God proclaimed that for forty years, they will wander in the desert

(Numbers 14:34) For forty years--one year for each of the forty days you explored the land--you will suffer for your sins and know what it is like to have me against you.'

8. The writing of the Ten Commandments the second time around

(Deutronomy 10:10) Now I had stayed on the mountain forty days and nights, as I did the first time, and the LORD listened to me at this time also. It was not his will to destroy you.

9. The number of soldiers who crossed over for the conquest of Jericho

(Joshua 4:13) About forty thousand armed for battle crossed over before the LORD to the plains of Jericho for war.

10. The age of Caleb when the Lord has chosen him to be one of the twelve spies

(Joshua 14:7) I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh Barnea to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions,

11. The number of years Eli served as the High Priest of Israel

(1 Samuel 4:18) When he mentioned the ark of God, Eli fell backward off his chair by the side of the gate. His neck was broken and he died, for he was an old man and heavy. He had led Israel forty years.

12. The number of days Goliath mocked the armies of Israel

(1 Samuel 17:16) For forty days the Philistine came forward every morning and evening and took his stand.

13. The Kings who served for forty years

a. David – (2 Samuel 5:4) David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years.

b. Solomon – (1 Kings 11:42) Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all

Israel

forty years.

c. Joash – (2 Kings 12:1) In the seventh year of Jehu, Joash became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem forty years. His mother's name was Zibiah; she was from Beersheba.

14. Elijah traveled forty days and forty nights to reach Horeb after fleeing from Jezebel

(1 Kings 19:8) So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.

15. The number of days that Jesus fasted

(Matthew 4:2) After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.

(Mark 1:13) and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.

(Luke 4:2) where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.

16. After resurrecting from the dead, Jesus spent 40 days on earth before finally ascending to heaven

(Acts 1:3) After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.

Touch Trips Thursday - Reliving the EPIC Days

2011-07-21T22:19:00.001+08:00

EPIC (Mission Exchange Program)

Partnership Between YM and Stopsley Baptist Church

Batch 3 - 2006

Participants: Andrew Suarez and Mackie Custodio

Batch 1 - 2004

Participants: Rodel Anisor, Jason Agana and Che-Che Torredes

Meet the YM Team - Tin Tin Ramos (JKKCC Secretary and Day Care Center Teacher)

2011-07-20T14:47:00.001+08:00

The Testimony of Ma. Christina Ramos (Tin Tin)

Hi! I'm Tin Tin and I'm 19 years old. I live in Makati, Philippines and I am a full-time worker of Jesus King of Kings Community Church. I've been serving God for two years now.

Before I came to know the Lord, I was a member of a street gang in Makati. Due to the many irregular activities I did as part of being a member of the street gang, at the age of 14, I already had a daughter. I got pregnant because of having a boyfriend who was twice my age. I was only 12 then and he was already 24. He took advantage of my innocence and when our daughter turned 3 months old, he left us for no reason at all. Up to now I still don’t know why he left.

But even before that, a very bad incident happen to me. When I was just 11 years old, I was kidnapped. Those five men who kidnapped me forced me to use drugs. When I refused, they stabbed me twice on my back. For almost 1 month I didn't eat nor drink any water. Until now, I couldn’t understand how I survived that ordeal.

It was only through the goodness of a person that I was able to eat. A jeepney driver saw me walking aimlessly one day. It was after I was able to escape my kidnappers. He offered me a ride and then he gave something to eat and drink.

Then a store owner recognized me and informed my aunt where they can find me. So my aunt and parents went to the place they were told. As soon as they found me, they saw that I was bleeding, so they brought me to a hospital.

I never realized then that those were miracles. That even though my heart was far from God, He was already at work in my life. Only when I surrendered my life to Jesus that it became clear to me how He had saved me during my darkest hours.

But even after recovering from that bad experience, I didn’t change my ways. In fact, I became worse than before. I started drinking and smoking. My life was literally spent with the street gang.

Then one day, a missionary from Canada invited me to a Bible Study at their house. I attended regularly not only the Bible study but also church worship service. I even volunteered in their kids’ ministry. When our family transferred to a new house, I stopped attending the Bible study and church worship service. Because of not having any fellowship, I went back to drinking and smoking.

Then, the same missionary came one day when we were practicing for a school presentation. He invited me again. I attended although I felt so guilty inside because of the bad things I did. I attended regularly again but that time, I started asking who Jesus really is in my life. I finally invited Him in to my heart and surrendered everything to Him.

I also started praying for His purpose for my life. It became clear to me that He wants me to serve Him through the kids’ ministry of our church. After many months of being a volunteer, I decided to become a full-time staff of our church. I became the church secretary and at the same time, one of the teachers of our Day Care Ministry.

I really love to teach children because I want them to become strong men and women of God someday. I love to serve the Lord through the children, and I want to show them the blessings that God has given me. I know for sure that these children will be great leaders in the future!

Aside from being the church secretary, I am also part of the worship team. I play the guitar and keyboards. Also, currently, I enrolled in a Bible School to further enhance and develop my understanding of the Bible, the church and its ministries. It really helps me a lot especially in doing my ministry and I learn a lot about God. I want to know him more and I want to share it to others.

Tin Tin serves as the secretary of Jesus King of Kings Community Church and at the same time as one of the teachers of the Day Care Center ministry.

JKKCC Update - From a Discipleship Program to a Bible School

2011-07-19T10:33:00.003+08:00

Jesus King of Kings Community Church Update

The Bible School Launching

Jesus King of Kings Community Church (JKKCC) recently launched its newest project - a Bible School. About 15 students came to attend the overnight Bible Camp last May 16-17 which served as the opening activity for the Bible School. The said activity was used to stir interest and encourage participants to go deeper in their study of the Bible.

BIBLE CAMP PICS:

The Bible School is another project of JKKCC's CE Director, Mackie Custodio. It is a dream culminating from a discipleship program he started many years ago called Be-E which is short for "Be Enlightened; Be Empowered; Be Equipped". Now the church is realizing that dream. Last July 12, the classes officially started with 8 students attending 5 different subjects namely: Lead Like Jesus, Old Testament Survey, New Testament Survey, Principles of Teaching & Bible & Its Interpretation.

Moreover, the said subjects are offered for free so that members of the church who really want to go deeper in their understanding of the Word of God but is being hindered by financial constraint can attend. Teachers currently are serving for free but church leaders are praying that a time will come when the church can give love gifts to the teachers. Teachers include Bible school graduates and students namely: Anne Benavidez, who is currently taking her masters in missions in Asian Theological Seminary (she finished Christian Education in Philippine Baptist Theological School in Baguio); Pastor Junie Antinero (finished a certificate course Southern Baptist School of Theology [SBST]); while Mackie Custodio and Kristofer Purificacion are still studying in SBST.

All classes are in the afternoon from Tuesday to Friday. Presently, the third floor of the Christ to the World Christian Church is being used as the class room.

Beautiful Part 2 By Chuck Keortge

2011-07-18T02:56:00.000+08:00

Beautiful

Beauty is commonly trivialized in our culture, reduced to decoration, equated to the meaninglessness of words like pretty and nice. But beauty is not an add-on; it is not an extra; it is not what we look for when we have a break from necessity. Beauty is fundamental.

It is fundamental to catching our attention:

A classic example is marketing of automobiles. Almost never is a $40,000 car advertised as practical. Indeed, almost always it is accompanied by an attractive young woman next to the most luxurious model, photographed in some elegant setting. The future of an entire industry triple-dipping at the fountain of beauty.

I suppose that is why my wife makes me buy used cars.

But it is fundamental in much more important ways.

Beauty is the evidence of and witness to the inherent wholeness and goodness of things. It is life in excess of what we can manage or make on our own. Beauty arrives through a sustained and adorational attentiveness to what is there: a rock, a flower, a face, a rustle in the trees, a storm crashing through the mountains, the sound of a stream, the glow of the moon. The generosity of a stranger. The faithfulness of a friend. The love of God.

Without the strong understanding of the holy and the beautiful we often give in to common misunderstanding:

Holy is to bland what beautiful is to trivial.

Holy is to boring what beautiful is to pretentious.

But a true understanding of holy would help us to understand that it is far from bland and boring. It is not goodness in a straight jacket, truth drained of mystery. It is not a nick-knack angel on a shelf watching over us as we sleep. Holiness does not make men and women smaller so they can use God in convenient doses. Instead is makes them larger so he can give out life through them, extravagantly, spontaneously, powerfully, dangerously.

Just as dark is the absence of light and hunger is caused by the absence of food, could it be that ugly is the absence of beauty?

A scripture uses beauty and holiness together. Mankind seems to have followed by connecting ugly and evil.

Beautiful

The ugly fills us with dread, confusion, despair, and fear and focuses on survival, saving ourselves at any cost. It seems to be the theme of much fiction.

The beautiful draws us close. It fills us with awe, with wonder, with comfort and with hope. It motivates us to want to share it with others. Is it strange that it is the theme of Scripture?

Seldom do we call our best friend and say, “This is so dreadful, painful, and chaotic I wish you could be here with me to enjoy it.”

Much of current culture presses us to pay for the privilege of sharing in horror, violence, chaos, and despair by calling it entertainment, art, or music. We may join in this by calling the ugly, good and the beautiful, trite. We may give silent approval by not holding out for something better. We may play a part by not encouraging, applauding, and supporting those whose talent is clouded by self-doubt.

Often it seems no different than paving the poppy fields or using the Grand Canyon as a land fill and calling these acts an award winning reality show.

May we who celebrate the name of Jesus take care that what we say and sing; all that we do for work and play; and what we purposefully and casually create and appreciate, be beautiful.

BK Saturday - Educational Assistance Program Part 2 (School Supplies Distribution)

2011-07-16T14:59:00.000+08:00

Last May 29, 2011, a few days before the opening of the new school year here in Manila, we distributed uniforms, shoes, socks, bags and other school supplies we bought for the beneficiaries of the Batang Krayola (BK) Educational Assistance Program sponsored by Extreme Response Canada. Here are some photos:

Training Day Friday - Missions Camp

2011-07-16T14:48:00.002+08:00

Windows YP Missions Camp
May 2-4, 2011
New Tribes School of Missions
Dinalupihan, Bataan

PLENARY SESSION:

PRAISE AND WORSHIP

DIVIDED WORKSHOPS

SMALL GROUPS

TEAM BUILDING EXERCISES

BONFIRE

GIVING OF CERTIFICATE OF PARTICIPATION

WINDOWS YP 2011 PARTICIPANTS

UK MIssion Trip Part 2 - Opportunity to Partner With Us

2011-07-14T15:21:00.001+08:00

May the Lord touch your heart to partner with us as you read this letter!

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Warm Christian greetings!

We, the church of Jesus King of Kings Community Church, a church planting ministry of Youth Mobilization Team have been established as a church three years ago, and by God’s grace and by the work of the Holy Spirit, small and young church as we are have been doing the work of missions as Christ has mandated us to do in our own community and in other places as well.

Two years ago, we started exposing our young people to local missions among the tribal people in Olongapo and Morong, Bataan. Last year in October, two of our youth leaders joined the mission exposure trip of Youth Mobilization Team in Siem Reap Cambodia. As a result, one of them decided to be a full time worker of the church in the Missions department of our church. Last summer, twenty (20) of our church members, composed of adults, young people and children went to the mountains of Kanawan, Bataan to do mission work among the Aetas!

It is our greatest passion to train our church members for the work of missions and expose them in the mission field with the hope that they will become the next generation of missionaries who will passionately obey the Great Commission of our Lord Jesus Christ to “go and make disciples of all nations…” and in so doing, becoming a blessing not only to our own people but to other nations as well.

Last year a group of young people from United Kingdom visited our church for a short exposure trip. As an exchange program our church was privileged to be invited by our partner church, Stopsley Baptist Church in Luton, England to visit their church and help in their different ministries. Armed with faith and desire to reach out to people to other parts of the world, eight (8) young hearts signed up for a 10 day mission trip to UK on October 31-November 8, 2011 in partnership with the Youth Mobilization Team.

As we desire to bring our church members to missions, we also challenge you to be in the mission field and you may do so by supporting us for this mission trip.

Each missionary aims to raise $1000 or 43,000Php for visa application and airfare. Other expenses for food and lodging will be taken care of by our partner church in Luton, England. We are daunted by this huge amount, but we trust that our partnership will significantly help meet our goal. After all, every effort we do to bring hope to hopeless will always be worth it in the end.

Thank you so much for sharing our passion in mission and doing an amazing job in believing that our young people is God's powerful instruments in bringing hope to people. As you give, I pray that your home be filled with as much joy and as much love as there is.

From all of us in Jesus King of Kings Community Church and Youth Mobilization Team, God bless you!

Sincerely yours,

Susana R. Benavidez

JKKCC Missions Department Coordinator and

ITP Youth Mobilization Training Coordinator

Pledge Card:

Yes! I want to be part of this mission trip!

Name: ____________________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________________________

Phone: ___________________________________________________________

Email Address: _____________________________________________________

I would like to pledge a (_) monthly gift of: or a one- time gift of:

__ P10,000 ($232) allocated for Airfare __P37,000 ( $860) allocated for airfare

__ P3,000 ($69) for visa application __P6,000 ($139) for visa application

__ other amount: __________ __other amount: __________

Send in your donations to:

The Ministry of the Paracletos Inc.

Peso Account

Account Name: The Ministry of the Paracletos Inc.

Account Number: 2470075102

Bank Name:Banco de Oro

Branch: Cash and Carry, Makati, Philippines

Dollar Account

Account Name: The Ministry of the Paracletos Inc

Account Number: 6244012025

Bank Name: BPI Family Savings Bank

Branch: Zobel Roxas, Makati, Philippines

Swift Code: BOPIPHMM

Meet the YM Team - Pen Pen (YM Partnership Director)

2011-07-13T10:36:00.006+08:00

The Personal Testimony of Josephine A. Bullo (Pen-Pen)

I felt as if I was at the end of the rope. When God came to rescue me in the depths of guilt, sin and shame, I was so broken, hopeless, in despair and in total misery. Many who knew me then shake their heads in disbelief. It was totally opposite of what is to be expected from someone who grew up in church and a daughter of a pastor.

I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior and Lord when I was only 9 years old, through a Daily Vacation Bible School in our community one summer. I have surrendered everything to Him, which includes my broken dreams and miserable life. I have then decided to follow Him and love Him more and more each day.

Though I was quiet most of the time, I actively attended church gatherings, youth fellowships and camps. When given the opportunity, I served in our as a Sunday school assistant; teacher and I made myself available to help in whatever I could. It was at the time that my father, who also made himself available to help in whatever he could, became a deacon and eventually a pastor.

Though it seems good that my father became a pastor, it wasn't very good for me. I could say that it was one of the most difficult times in my life. Many times, I felt that people in the church were always watching every single moment in my life.

Then trials came, coupled with failures and temptations that overwhelmed my growing up years. Slowly but surely, I was falling and sliding. I had stepped into something that led to the darkest and the most dreadful part of my life.

As the years passed, I had to stop, re-think and do self-evaluation. I still felt so lost and hopeless that I once have tried committing suicide. To make it worst, I was also hooked and addicted to many vices.

I was at the very end of the rope when I suddenly remembered to pray and tried talking to the God I have known when I was only 9. I asked Him to give me another chance, to give me hope and once again to please have mercy upon my life that at that point was so devastated - no hope, no life.

In the year 2000, during my birthday, my parents asked me to join a mission exposure trip to Bangkok, Thailand. I was very hesitant to join. In my mind, there were thoughts of uncertainties, questions as to what lies ahead? I kept asking myself, “What would happen next?”

During my stay in

Thailand

, I kept asking God if He would give me another chance. Will He be still my Savior? I asked Him once again really rule over my life. Then, I once again experienced God's powerful moving in my life. His mercy overflowed, I have witnessed again and again His unfailing and unconditional love.

Medical Mission in Siem Reap - October 2010 (Touch Cambodia)

Right there and then, I have committed my life in serving Him. I saw how I wasted my life before and yet He lovingly accepted me when I came back to Him. All I could ever think of is how I can show Him how thankful and grateful I am for His faithfulness and goodness.

When I went back to the Philippines, I started looking for a ways to serve. So I started helping in Medical Missions and I volunteered in doing community work in different areas in Metro Manila. I served under International Teams Philippines Urban Ministries.

Then in 2006 God has directed me to commit my life in serving with the Youth Mobilization team. My main task ever since is to partner with churches. My main goal is to help build ministries of partner churches and to empower pastors and leaders. I believe that the power of Jesus Christ will mightily move in the Churches so they can be a blessing to their community and other communities, to the nation and to the world.

Pen Pen (first from the left) in Kota Kinabalu, where she led youth leaders for a short term mission trip (Touch Malaysia - 2009)

As I look back all through the years that passed, God's presence is truly evident in every aspect of my life. Even during those times I was lost, He never left me nor forsaken me. Because of that, I have committed my life not just to meet the spiritual needs and values formation of the youth, but I seek the total transformation of their lives.

(Psalm 23:6) “Surely goodness and loving-kindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Pen-Pen currently is the Partnership Director of the Youth Mobilization team. Her main objectives are to establish, build and strengthen relationship with partner churches, and to empower, support and further develop leaders.

JKKCC Goes to Kanawan Tribe

2011-07-12T10:05:00.002+08:00

Kanawan DVBS 2011

Last May, Jesus King of Kings Community Church (JKKCC) went to Kanawan Tribe (Morong, Bataan - 5 hours from Manila) to hold a Vacation Bible School for the Aeta kids. For five days (May 9-13), 20 leaders and members of the church ministered not only to the kids but to the adults as well.

The youth led and organized the VBS, while the adult leaders guided the youth and helped in whatever need that arose during the whole week. Nanay (Tagalog word for mother) Loida, many consider as the mother of the church (as the name implies), cooked food for the team for five days. She also shared her testimony and God’s Word to the mothers who helped her prepare the food. So, it was not just the team that benefited from her presence but the community as well.

It was the first time JKKCC went on a mission trip, and indeed, everyone came home blessed, changed and touched by what God did during the whole week. It is really amazing how God blessed the community once again. In fact, it was on this mission trip that Nikolai, one of the youth participants, heard God’s call for full-time service. He is now serving as an intern of the church. On the other hand, Pastor Arsenio Dumolot and his wife kept thanking all of us, and they once again bade us good bye teary-eyed.

Another amazing result is that the church is already excited for next year. As early as now, many have already signed up and are saving money and praying for the next mission trip which will be in Iloilo (Visayan Region).

Beautiful Part 1 By Charles Keortge

2011-07-10T22:43:00.000+08:00

Another one from my good friend and mentor Chuck Keortge

What is the “beautiful” and why should we care about it?

by Charles Keortge (2010)

Multiple times the Bible uses the same words together:

O, worship the Lord in the beauty of his holiness.

As followers of Jesus we are often challenged in sermons and personal study to try to better understand and apply the word HOLINESS.

Indeed, some entire Christian groups have as a part of their core beliefs the practice of holiness.

There are few followers of Jesus who categorically state that their Christian walk should include the word BEAUTY.

I invite you to follow along as we consider the BEAUTIFUL and I invite you to ask the question, “Why should we care about it?”

The mere fact that the word beauty exists and has a common use may lead us to immediately respond, “Why bother with this esoteric Password game?”

And to be further exasperated and saying, “If there’s anything I hate it’s an abstract study on a common word.” One this sentiment we agree.

To help me answer my own question, “Why should we care?” I would like to paraphrase a few thoughts on the subject by the well known author and pastor, Eugene Peterson.

Beauty: splendor, grandeur, adornment. Life-core existence spills over the containers of mere survival or utility. It tells us that there is much more going on in this world than just waiting for the traffic camera on the corner of 15^th street and Avenue J. Indeed, war, robbery, murder, and mayhem have been committed with the possession of “something or someone beautiful” as the primary motive.

As we consider how to worship our God in beauty we are involved in the most soul-involving, reality assimilating act available to human beings. Peterson emphasizes that we are most ourselves, most our image-of-God creaturely selves, when we are worshiping.

O, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

Unfortunately for our generation and planet, beauty and holiness are both in short supply.

BK Saturday - Educational Assistance Program (Nothing Is Impossible With God)

2011-07-09T08:39:00.001+08:00

Nothing Is Impossible With God

She wants to become a nurse when she grows up. Such is the dream of Anna Rose Gayon, a young child we have come to know through our feeding ministry. Already, even though she is only 9, she thinks way beyond her age. A product maybe of what she has experienced in the last nine years living in one of the impoverished areas in Makati City. One of her desires is to help her family get a better life and if only she can grow immediately, finish her education and get a job, she would do so.

But growing up so fast is not Anna Rose’s main problem, her situation is. Aside from having a simple house that only gets electricity when someone in their community is having a funeral, her father could only earn 600 pesos (approximately 15$) a week, an income he gets for being a part-time jeepney driver. Not even enough for the food they eat every day.

Anna Rose and her Mom have lived in this house ever since Anna was born

Most likely, she won’t be able to go to school, since both of her parents never really had a good education - her mother only finished high school while her father stopped after graduating from the elementary level. Her mother told us once, “I would like to send Anna Rose to school but the problem is, we just can’t afford it right now.” Ironically, basic education is free according to Philippine law, but still many fail to enroll their children due to the everyday cost of sending one child to school. While to enroll a child is indeed free, school supplies, uniforms, and other school needs are not.

But God does hear a child’s wish. We saw her determination and so we started praying for Anna Rose and the others who have the potential but are not able to study due to poverty. Indeed, with God, nothing is impossible. Finally, He answered our prayers. Through the generous donation of Extreme Response Canada, we started a scholarship program for poor kids. Anna and 8 other kids are selected.

We are so blessed when he handed out school supplies, shoes, uniforms, bags and many other things to the kids. They are so glad and excited that they will be able to study this school year. So last June 6, they all went to school with such joy and excitement, not only because they have new shoes, bags and school supplies but because they have a new hope. Now that they are able to study once again, indeed they have a new hope that will lead to a better future.

Anna and the other kids received shoes, socks, uniform, bags, and school supplies for the coming school year

Just like the rest, although Anna Rose still has a long way before she can fulfill her dream, she has taken the first step. As the Lord provides, and surely He will, it won’t be long when Anna Rose will become a nurse, and that day will come when she will be able to help her family defeat poverty. A difficult situation they are in that seems impossible to overcome right now but with God, nothing is impossible.

Training Day Friday - The God's Soul Winning Ministry

2011-07-08T22:07:00.002+08:00

Modern Day Missionaries of Old - The God's Soul Winning Ministry

By Anne Benavidez

Last May 2011, the Youth Mobilization team held its first missions camp in New Tribes School of Mission located in Dinalupihan, Bataan (about 4 hours to the north of Manila). In this mission camp, we invited 15 youth leaders to give their testimonies on how the Lord has been using them in sharing the gospel through their evangelistic crusades in different nearby villages and towns.

They belong to one of the ethnic groups in the Philippines called Aetas. Aetas in general are very shy and they don’t mingle with other groups of people and sometimes, even to fellow Aetas who belong to different tribes.

Their testimonies became main highlight of the conference.

Windows YP 2011 - The Missions Camp where the God's Soul Winning Team gave their testimony

Before giving their testimony, I had the privilege of talking to their assistant team leader, Liza, who gladly shared with me how their team and ministry were “born” and how the Lord has been using them for three years now. Liza herself is a youth leader of her church.

God's Soul Winning Ministry, the name which they call themselves, started in a vision. They received this vision after attending YM’s Overnight Modular Training (OMT) in 2008 . The three who attended the training sought God on how they will put into reality the vision they have received. Two months after the training the Lord led them to attend the Encountering God Seminar, and there Liza said that the Lord revealed to them in details on how they will conduct the evangelistic crusade. Before the year 2008 ended, they launched their first evangelistic crusade among their tribal ancestors. In the following months they would travel by walking (because they don’t have money for public transportation nor a vehicle) from town to town, village to village to bring the Gospel to their own people even in the remotest villages and mountains.

Liza’s story on how they did their evangelistic crusades is truly amazing and personally humbling for me. These young missionaries went from one remote village to another and climbed mountains by foot. Sometimes, it takes them 18 hours just to go to the next village and they also experienced 2 days of walking! They go to a certain village bringing only uncooked rice and salt. On their way they look for anything to cook. The Lord would bless them with fruits like papaya or some vegetables along the way and those became their meal. If they find none, then they are contented with just rice and salt for their meal. They also sleep along the way. They just pitched their tent made from used sack of rice and many times, they slept under a tree. They bring sweaters or jackets and blankets which they use to keep them warm during the cold of the night. They usually arrive before sundown and even though exhausted they are still ready for the evangelistic crusades. They usually stay in a village or a town for two days and spend two days again of walking back home.

These modern-day missionaries are so passionate for God’s calling and vision that nothing can stop them from fulfilling the mandate that they have received from the Lord. Even without money, or any means of transportation they will still go. Even the dangers of climbing up and down the mountain and the risk of staying out there in the night, all of these they are willing to bear just to obey the Master’s call upon their lives. In their hearts they only have one goal - to “reach the unreached Aetas” even in the remotest parts of the Philippines.

The group’s favorite verse and tagline is “nothing is impossible with God!” For them these words are enough for them to step in faith and wholeheartedly fulfill the Great Commission even to the remotest part of the earth. To God be the glory for the lives of these modern-day missionaries of old!

Joshua encouraging and praying with the God's Soul Winning Ministry Team right after the Missions Camp held last May 2-4, 2011 in Dinalupihan, Bataan

Touch Trips Thursday - UK Mission Trip

2011-07-08T11:02:00.001+08:00

Dreaming The Impossible - UK Mission Trip

By Anne Benavidez

Two years ago the Lord spoke to me regarding being faithful with the impossible while I was doing my personal devotion. I was reading the account of Gideon when the Lord asked me this question, “If I will tell you to bring youth leaders to nations for a mission trip such as United Kingdom will you obey?” At first I was speechless. I don’t know what to answer. In my heart I know I don’t have the capacity and the means to bring youth leaders to such a wealthy and far away nation like UK for a mission trip. But after reading the devotional book of Blackaby “Experiencing God” I became elated and excited.

Blackaby said and I quote, “When God gives an assignment, it is no longer impossibility, but rather it is an absolute certainty. When God gives you a seemingly impossible task, the only thing preventing it from coming to pass is your disobedience. When God speaks, it can scare you to death! He will lead you to do things that are absolutely impossible in your own strength. But God will grant you victory, step by step, as you obey Him. How do you respond to assignments that seem impossible? Do you write them off as unattainable? Or do you immediately adjust your life to God’s revelation, watching with anticipation to see how He will accomplish His purposes through your obedience? God wants to do the impossible through your life. All He requires is your obedience.”

These words I believe were God’s answer to my queries. It was as if God was directly speaking to me through the words of Blackaby. I know for sure, it was God speaking to me! Since that time I became excited on how God will open the way for us to have a mission trip to UK. But days, months and a year passed but nothing happened. In my excitement I even mistakenly consider “other” nation like Canada only to painfully experience a closing of doors. I learned from that experience never to overtake God’s plan and learn to patiently and trustfully wait for God’s perfect timing.

It was last year when the Lord finally opened that door. After a group of young people from Luton, England visited our church (JKKCC) for a 10 day mission trip, the team leader and I agreed to have an exchange program with their church (Stopsley Baptist Church) so as to strengthen our partnership with them. Lo and behold, a schedule was set for a 10-day mission exposure trip to the United Kingdom!

Right now a group of young people from our church (8 of them) are undergoing screening and training in preparation for the upcoming mission trip to UK on October 31 - November 9, 2011. Together with the 4 leaders of Youth Mobilization, the team is now busy preparing and working hard for the said mission trip.

As the team leader, I feel that this is a big and an impossible task. I would admit that none of us are capable to produce the huge amount we need for this mission trip. On our own we cannot do it, but just as the Lord has encouraged me two years ago, through the words of Blackaby, this seemingly impossible task becomes an absolute certainty because it was God who gave us this assignment. The only thing that we need to do is to obey Him and the rest will be His doing. If God wants to do the impossible through our lives then so be it. For the praise of His glory, JKKCC (Jesus King of Kings Community Church) will dream the impossible!!!

Prayer Requests:

1. Pray that each one of us will be able to raise Php 5,000 ($117USD) for our visa application on July 26, 2011. Pray also that we will be able to secure a visa and that we will find favor in the eyes of the consul officer who will examine our visa applications.
2. For our plane tickets, each one needs to raise $1,000USD (Php 43,000). Pray that we will be able to raise this amount of money in time.
3. Pray for our upcoming Dinner for a Cause on July 29, 2011. Pray that we will be able to sell all our tickets and many will come to support this fund-raising event
4. Pray for our other fundraising drive like Garage sale, Serenade for a Cause, Early Christmas Caroling, and also our personal solicitations to friends and relatives. Pray that many will respond to our need for support as we solicit funds to people.
5. But most of all, pray for God’s miraculous provision for this trip. As a church, we will walk on water and dare to live the impossible!
6. Pray also for our continuous screening and trainings. Pray for wisdom for the team leaders as we prepare our team for this mission trip.
7. Pray for our team: Composed of 12 members
a. 6 youth
1. Christine Grafil Galpa (Tin-Tin)
2. Ma. Christina Angustia Ramos (Tin-Tin Ramos)
3. Rema Bayarcal Ado (Rema)
4. Ma. Juvilyn Villanueva Bachica (Juvi)
5. Jun Ryan Rivera Arañas (Nikko)
6. Raymond Terro Sumaya (Mon)
b. 2 kids
7. Andrea Lois Jedidiah Rodulfa Benavidez (Lois)
8. Josiah Josh Rodulfa Benavidez (Josiah)
c. 4 Youth Mobilization
9. Eric Tamayo Benavidez (Joshua)
10. Susana Rodulfa Benavidez (Anne)
11. Richyll Honey Fernandez Torredes (Che-Che)
12. Honorico Arguelles. Dizon Jr. (Rico)
Pray for our health and protection. Pray for spiritual covering from all the attacks of the enemy. Pray that our faith will be stretch and strengthen in the process.

Meet the YM Team - Kristofer Purificacion - Batang Krayola Ministry Leader

2011-07-06T21:54:00.000+08:00

Kristofer's Testimony

Toph and one of the Aeta kids during the 2009 Christmas Party in Kanawan

Hi, my name is Kristofer T. Purificacion or simply “Toph”, as how my friends and co-workers would call me. I am currently serving the Lord as the worship leader of our local church and at the same time, as the ministry leader of Batang Krayola (Child Crayon), a street children’s ministry under the Youth Mobilization team. Batang Krayola aims to teach, train and equip street kids so that they will become great leaders in their home, society, and the world.

Salvation

I received Jesus as my Lord and Savior when I was 19 years old during a youth camp held in Rizal Re-creation Center, Laguna last May 17-19, 2006. It was my god-father whom I have not seen for almost 19 years who brought me to church. He chanced upon me one time while I was playing with my old band mates for an occasion near our place in Carmona, Cavite.

He immediately asked me if I am free every Saturday night until Sunday afternoon. I didn’t know that at that moment, he was actually planning to take me to the church where he attends. I said yes. The first time I attended church, I felt very awkward because during the congregational singing, I saw some who are laughing and at the same time, some are crying. I didn’t understand it at first.

But as the worship leader started leading the congregation in singing, I started to focus on the message of the songs and not to anything else. That’s how I started to know the Lord. He used the songs to reveal himself to me. It became clear to me when I surrendered everything to him during that youth camp in 2006. So every Saturday night, my god-father would let me sleep in their house and we wake-up early morning to go to Makati for the church Sunday service.

Calling

As I continued attending church, one Sunday, the worship leader offered me a chance to serve God through the worship team. I immediately grabbed that opportunity and I started playing the guitar for the worship team. Then in January 05, 2007, my pastor invited me to join the Youth Mobilization team, a ministry under International Teams Philippines. I saw it as an opportunity from God to serve not only our church, but also other churches as well. On the other hand, another opportunity came - an opportunity to work overseas. It will be a big chance for me to earn money that I badly needed to finish my studies.

It was the hardest decision I had to make in my life. I didn’t know what to do, but God reminded me of this verse, "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33)." By faith and with my mother’s permission, I left our house in Cavite, to join other missionaries and live in the city. I declined the offer to go overseas, and instead opted to serve God. Because of that God opened my eyes to see many struggling people around me. They are headed for destruction unless someone tells them that God’s salvation is available for all of them. I realized that God has placed me in the midst of a hurting world so I can share His love with those who desperately need it.

Toph together with the participants of Touch Malaysia (Kota Kinabalu, 2009)

In the beginning, I was assigned as the team’s graphic artist and at the same, as the assistant for Batang Krayola. I truly enjoyed serving Him, and indeed, when we can be trusted with little things, God will entrust to us, bigger things. In 2009, our team leader talked to me if I will be willing to lead the Batang Krayola ministry. It is indeed a huge task, but again, God reminded me of His purpose for my life. I realized that God is opening a door for me to reach out to the helpless, the hopeless and the less-privileged. So without any hesitation, I gladly accepted the role.

So from then on, I’ve serving street children and we have set-up several programs to meet their needs. Currently, we have a Day Care center, a ministry we set-up so that mothers can leave their children to us for free so that they can go to work. It all started when we saw children left alone to play in the street on their own. We found out that their mothers had no choice but to do that because they can’t bring their children to work. We also do hygiene clinic, feeding ministry, DVBS, medical mission and Christmas parties for street children and their families.

Toph and some of the Batang Krayola kids

JKKCC Update - Water Baptism and New Worship Service Time & Venue

2011-07-05T10:51:00.008+08:00

Jesus King of Kings Community Church (JKKCC) UPDATES

Water Baptism

Last May 30, 2011, JKKCC went to a resort in Cavite to hold a Water Baptism for its three members, namely Nikolai and sisters, Anjie and Lyza. It was a very touching and a very memorable event for the church as the three shared their powerful conversion testimonies before they were actually baptized in water. Those present were moved to tears as well as the three who gave the testimonies. It is indeed a blessing to witness three souls wanting to fully follow their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Currently, Nikolai decided to serve in the church as an intern while the Anjie and Lyza are now regularly attending church and very passionately worshiping and growing in the Lord.

Nikolai's water baptism

Anjie's Water Baptism

Lyza's Water Baptism

New Worship Time & Venue

JKKCC has found a new home temporarily. Starting the month of July, the church will use the third floor of Christ to the World Christian Church International (CWCCI) for its office and the adjacent room for its ministries like prayer meeting, Bible Study, Youth Fellowship, Kids In Action, etc. (sharing it with the Youth Mobilization team). For the Sunday Service, JKKCC will use CWCCI's ground floor. The service starts at 4 in the afternoon and promptly ends at 6 in the evening.

Road Map to CWCCI

Transport Ministry for JKKCC Members and attenders

Also, you can go to any of the following places if you want to ride in the vehicles provided for church members (the vehicles leave at 3:30 pm):

1. Nanay Loida's Residence - For those residing in Bangkal (c/o Rico Apilan Dizon and Kristofer T. Purificacion
2. Princess Residence - For those residing in Pio Del Pilar (c/o Nicholdz Rivera Arañas and Nikolai Panganiban)
3. Batangas corner Zanzibar Streets - For those residing in San Isidro (c/o Raymond Sumaya and Roldan Sumaya)

PRAYER ITEM:

1. Please pray for funds that we can use to buy bicycles for JKKCC staff. The bicycles will be a big help for the staff as they go to the office everyday as well as they visit members and for ministry outreach. We need four bicycles, each one costing 5000 pesos (approximately $120).

2. Please pray for the Day Care Center Ministry. Up to now, we haven't found a place yet. Pray that God will show us where to go. Pray also for the provision for the rent.

[NOTE: JKKCC is the church started three years ago through YM's ministry to former street gangs members. Now it has grown to a congregation of 60 adults (youth, singles, housewives and husbands) and about 30 children)]

Sunday's Word - More Fertilizer - By Chuck Keortge

2011-07-03T23:15:00.000+08:00

A REPOST from my FB account:

I would like to share a very inspiring article written by Chuck Keortge, someone I consider as my friend, father, mentor, teacher and counselor. I first met Chuck in Quito, Ecuador during the Leader Mundial Summit in 2007. He was Grace Chapel's Mission Pastor and although he retired a few years ago, he is always available to serve in whatever way he can. It is a great honor to know this great man of God.

More Fertilizer

by Charles Keortge June 2011

We are blessed to have a nice yard at our house. There are some very old almond trees, some newer pomegranate and apricot trees, a number of shrubs, iris, agapanthus, Italian Cyprus, roses, and, Linda’s pride and joy, a seedling palm, whose relative grows near by.

We also have some lawn and with the lawn comes its nemesis, dandelions. In Spanish the word for this weed is diente de leon. Roughly translated it means lion’s tooth. This seems appropriate since while the plant is quickly identified by its bright yellow bloom it is its sharply pointed leaves that cause me all the grief.

In other years and other times I have attacked this lion with a manual weeder, a lawn mower, a hoe, and assorted other remedies. I have even resorted to the fabled weed exterminator, Round Up. That stuff works really well. It also kills every other living plant in the area all the way to the roots if a careless sprayer is used for application.

We are also blessed by a long-time friend who has assisted us with our gardening for nearly ten years. Jaime is his name and he is a plant expert. He can plant, prune, irrigate, repair sprinklers, set sprinkler timers of all kinds, repair pipes and put in new pipes and, best of all, they all work well and don’t waste water.

Herein lies the conflict. Jaime earns his living by working in the gardens of other people. He does it everyday, six days a week. When I was the sole worker in our yard I gave little thought to using herbicides and insecticides to control all kinds of plants and insects. I was careful to use the recommended dose and successfully applied it from time to time. Many years ago I suggested to Jaime that I had a bottle of Round Up concentrate that he should feel free to use as needed. He said nothing. I assumed that he was using it since the yard looked good. Then I discovered the full bottle, unused. I have long been a DIYSer. For those who only go in the garage to park their car that meansdo it yourself. I dusted off the weed poison and took care of the areas that I thought needed attention. Jaime said nothing.

After a few years of this I again reminded Jaime that he could use the herbicide if he wished to save come manual labor. He smiled and reminded me that he worked in yards all the time. I had already taken note of his wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirts and gloves. He briefly explained that he was trying to be careful not to get poisoned by multiple small doses of all kinds of chemicals that get dumped on plants. How could I disagree and not want to help my friend to be well? So I ceased using anything unless I ask him first

That brings us back to dandelions.

A few weeks ago I spotted a few of their cheerful flowers and they renewed the weed-killer instinct in me. I restrained myself until Jaime’s next visit. As we often do, we met in our joint-command HQ, the front yard, to plan a strategy. When I showed him the evidence of the invasion he just smiled and shrugged his shoulders. He promised that the attack would be short-lived and that he would personally control it by hand.

Then in his best diplomatic voice and manner he instructed me, “Más fertilizante”, (more fertilizer) he said. He repeated it twice more and returned to his task.

I count myself an apt student and frequently I learn from him on the topics of plants, cooking, diet, nutrition, child-rearing, weather, health, generosity, and theology, so this past week I have been contemplating the doctrine of more fertilizer.

My immediate thought was that more fertilizer would just grow bigger weeds. But the idea kept coming back to me. More fertilizer would provide nutrients and other good things to the lawn. The lawn would thrive and choke out the weeds. It is a good theory and it seems to be mostly a success. Once in a while there will be a stray weed who wanders in not having learned of the more fertilizerrule. He is escorted from the property by direct attention.

Then the allegory of more fertilizer began to sprout. How often do we, when faced with situations that are difficult, time consuming, and unavoidable, go to our personal poison stash and pull out the proven assassins, far more potent than herbicide or insecticide, and that extend all the way tohomicide?

We do it to try and resolve misunderstandings, mistakes by store clerks or servers in a restaurant. With those we sit beside in church, with our coworkers, friends and family. With our mechanics and medical doctors and house painters. Even with our smallest child or weakest grandmother we can easily ignore the skull and crossed bones on the label and apply a face full of this undiluted stuff with no feeling of guilt or remorse.

That well-known saint and biblical writer Paul instructs us in his letter to the congregation in Galatia with these paraphrased thoughts:

Don’t let your easily retrievable poisonous sinful nature of hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and the like be used to attempt to get rid of the “weeds of life”.

Care for each other’s personal “gardens”. Provide the kinds of things that build character and that cause love to grow. Instead go organic. Compost the fruit of the Spirit. Cover those dry, withering roots with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and goodness. Water with faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no warning label that has a skull and crossed bones. Even applied in liberal undiluted portions there is no danger.

More fertilizer.

Training Day Friday - Windows YP Mission Conference

2011-04-08T18:53:00.000+08:00

This coming May 2-4, 2011 the Youth Mobilization Team will hold its first Youth Missions Camp in Dinalupihan, Bataan (north of Metro Manila) at New Tribes Missions facility. Every year we conduct a mission conference where we train the youth leaders who have undergone our OMT (Overnight Modular Training) coming from different churches in the Philippines. We usually hold our conferences in Makati. But this year we have decided to conduct it in the Province of Bataan to give the youth leaders from Olongapo, Bataan and Zambales areas easy access.

On October of 2008 we conducted an OMT in Dampay, Zambales (6 hours from Manila) where most of the youth leaders who attended were Aetas (ethnic tribe in the Philippines). Two months after our training, we heard that a group of youth leaders formed a group they called God’s Soul Winning Team. Their pastor told us that these youth leaders led evangelistic crusades from town to town since December 2008 until now. It was a great encouragement for us to hear that these youth leaders, caught the vision of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ to different towns in the Province of Zambales. Our “labor” of training these youth leaders is not in vain indeed. It is a great reward for us to hear that the vision we have imparted to them has been carried out as they obey the Lord in preaching the Gospel to their own people.

We have invited this group to attend our mission conference in May. We want them to testify to what the Lord has been doing in their evangelistic crusades so as to encourage their fellow youth leaders in taking the initiative of sharing the Gospel to their own people. The group composed of 15 young people who are very willing to attend the conference but don’t have the means to attend the conference. They will be coming from the mountain where they live and need to travel four hours to get to the location of the missions conference.

Another group that we invited to come to serve as volunteer staff are those youth leaders who participated in our short exposure trip in Malaysia in 2009 and in Cambodia last year. Most of them will be coming from Manila. This group is also composed of 15 youth leaders.

Both groups need to raise an amount of 1000Php ($24) each just to attend the said conference. We need to raise 30,000Php ($698) for the 30 youth leaders. We need thirty (30) sponsors who will give $24 for each youth leaders or sixty sponsors who will give $12 each.

Please be in prayer for us as we raise funds for these youth leaders whose lives has been changed as they followed the Lord in obeying the Great Commission of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Thank you so much for constantly remembering us and our ministries in your prayers. May the Lord bless you abundantly!

In Christ alone,

Anne Benavidez
International Teams Phil’s.
Youth Mobilization Team
Training Director

BK Saturday - A Partner Church's Testimony after the Christmas Party

2011-03-19T10:53:00.001+08:00

We just would like to share with you a wonderful testimony as we continue our drive to empower churches. This email was from Pastor Alden Manglicmot of Familiy Christian Fellowship, one of YM's partner churches located 5 hours north of Manila.

Dear Youth Mobilization,

Greetings in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ!

First of all we thank God for the year 2010. It was full of challenges, but of blessing as well and of people who were willing not only to help but also to make sacrifices and a lot of efforts in fulfilling the call of God purposed for them especially the Youth Mobilization team of International Teams Philippines. Thank you for the fellowship and for ministering to us last December at our Christmas Party. Thank you also for the opportunity you gave us to minister to you as well. It is such a great privilege. Thank you for the team who came from different countries. You are really a wonderful blessing to our church and to our community. The church right now is filled with hope - children who are “a new generation of mighty warriors for building God's kingdom” and a new breed of missionaries too. Hallelujah!

(The Team that held Christmas Parties in Bataan last December 2010)

This year 2011, for us is even a greater year with greater things which are still to come and to be done. Amen! I believe the Lord of the harvest is going to give us a great spiritual harvest especially of souls, as He reminds us in His word, “The fields are ready for harvest.” This is why we also need to give more commitment, more prayers, more time, more studies and more giving. “The fruits of tomorrow are the seeds of today.”

“Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through Christ Jesus!”

Thank you YM, may God continue to display His glory upon you and through you.

May God greatly bless us all!!

FAMILY CHRISTIAN
Assembly of God Church
Tipo I, Hermosa Bataan 2111 Phil.

Family Christian Fellowship is a church that always supports every YM activity by sending their youth and youth leaders. Their youth attended our Overnight Modular Training and Windows YP (YM's annual Youth Missions Conference) as a result Faye (one their youth leaders) received the passion to go to missions and she joined YM's Touch Trip both here in the Philippines and Malaysia.

Moreover, we also witnessed how Faye became a great testimony to her fellow young people. Because of that passion for missions, she started influencing them to organize events that will impact their community. Their youth group spearheaded a Vacation Bible School and other activities geared towards reaching-out the kids in their community.

Pastor Alden is so amazed on how God used our ministry to impact the lives of their youth group. His church is so blessed to see their youth standing up and taking lead in serving our God.

This is always our hope and prayer - that many churches like Pastor Alden's church will be empowered and be able to reach out to the poor and the needy in their respected communities.

Training Day Friday - Story of the Three

2011-03-18T05:16:00.000+08:00

STORY OF THE THREE (written by Anne Benavidez - as seen in Breaking Grounds March 2011, YM's Official Newsletter)

Mery Grace, Joy and Wendy - these are the three youth leaders from our partner church, Hills of Savior Christian Church, who attended our Overnight Modular Training (OMT) last March 2009 in Dinalupihan, Bataan (3 hours drive from Manila). This OMT was held in Valley of Grace Campsite. Pastor Romy, the pastor of Hills of Savior Christian Church gathered youth leaders from different churches in Dinalupihan, Bataan.

(Pastor Romy preaching at his church, Hills of Savior Christian Church)

Last month, I was able to talk to their pastor and I took the opportunity to ask how his three youth leaders are doing. The pastor testified that it was such a great help to him when these three youth leaders took over the responsibility in leading their youth ministry.

“Now they are the ones who are doing the planning, programming and goal-setting for our youth ministry. They continue to apply everything they have learned from the OMT. Sometimes they amaze me by the creative programming they are doing in the youth services and fellowships. I could see that what they are doing are so effective because many young people keep coming back to their gatherings,” the pastor excitingly testifies. “They are also very active in evangelism by inviting young people to our youth ministry. I could see that they are growing in attendance,” he added.

He also testified that they were so fired up that they decided to enroll in a Bible School. Two of them have already graduated and the other one is still studying. All three of them are not just being used in their youth ministry but the Lord is also using them now in preaching the Word of God in their church. We can see the many potential in their lives that are just waiting to be revealed. We are indeed privileged to be part of what God is doing in their lives.

It was a great encouragement for me to hear what the Lord has been doing in the lives of these youth leaders. Their lives serve like fuel in our engine that keeps on burning so that we can continue doing what God wants us to do. Honestly, sometimes I am thinking if what we are teaching is really making an impact in the lives of the youth leaders and in their youth ministry. Hearing these testimonies is really encouraging. It reminds me of the Apostle Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 15:58, “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

Our prayers and our hearts desire is to see many youth who will have the desire to serve God - serving their own churches and communities.

Thank God that our labor in the Lord is not really in vain. To Him be all the glory!!

Meet the YM Team - Richyll Honey Torredes

2011-03-09T06:52:00.001+08:00

I’m Richyll Honey Torredes, better known as “Che-Che” I’m a full-time missionary of IT Philippines-Youth Mobilization Team, serving as its office administrator and (Touch Trip) mission’s coordinator.

Testimony

Before I came to know Him, I was haunted by my experiences during my childhood days, a shaky past which put a strain throughout my teenage life. My parents separated when I was little and I grew up without a father figure. Growing up in a strong religious background with complicating family issues and beliefs drew me into occult practices and vices that led me to be rebellious and emotionally disturbed. Feeling so lonely and wasted, I was so desperate and in search for parental love.

One afternoon in September 2002, my friend introduced me to his best friend who later on invited me to a youth fellowship. That led me to hunger and thirst for the truth and because the fellowship made me feel so secured, I was led to God’s salvation. For the first time, I felt that I belong to Someone who truly loves me.

Truly indeed, I became a new creation and received freedom from the bondages of my past and my life would never be the same again. I received His security, comfort and strength more than I could ask or imagine. My joy was complete and He became the Father I have been searching for.

Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Calling

In September 2003, God brought me to England for 4 months to experience cross cultural missions as part of our church exchange program. The experience I had in UK was surreal. I wasn’t expecting that I will be able to travel to the place I once dreamt of when I was only a child. Chosen among many others, who were more qualified than I am, it was truly a miracle. I felt so special and my heart became so curious and concerned about His future plan for me. For three months I prayed and searched for answers and I earnestly sought His revelation why He brought me there. In January 2004, two weeks before we head back home, he gave me an answer.

Clearly as I recall, it was a freezing Saturday night. The worship seminar we were attending was drawing to a close. The pastor came to prophesy for seven people from our group, after sharing a wonderful sermon about worship and God’s calling. I was one of the seven who were called and received confirmation from God. In that moment, I can’t believe what I heard from him and I consciously asked myself, “How can the pastor know what I am praying for since I don’t know him”? There is only one explanation; it was God who spoke through that person. It’s been more than eight years now but I can still clearly recall the words spoken to me that night, “Che-Che you will walk in this place again and again and you will also walk in other lands for you have a calling for the nations. Do not under estimate the depth of the gift God has given you. Remain teachable and set yourself in seasons of training for you will win souls for Christ.”

That moment was indeed a life changing experience, for I have received my missionary calling to be God’s witness to the nations. Two weeks later I decided to join the Youth Mobilization team as one of its full time worker. Eight years later, I have witnessed and I know I will continue to witness the fulfillment of God’s call and purpose for my life.

(Aside from being YM's Office Administrator, Che-Che leads the Touch Trips Ministry which organizes mission trips, local and cross-cultural for Filipino youth)

(Inside Ankor Wat in Siem Reap during the recreation day of Touch Cambodia, October 2010)

JKKCC's Educational Assistance Program - The Interview

2011-03-08T08:24:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, March 5, we had the opportunity to interview those who will be part of JKKCC’s Educational Assistance Program. This coming school year in June, we are set to send to school 10 kids – all of whom come from an urban poor community very near our office. We wanted to know them better and to hear what is in their heart regarding their son/daughter’s education so we asked them to attend the interview. Together with their kid, the mothers went to our office last Saturday.

It was indeed a great opportunity to hear their hearts. All of the kids said that they would like to study even though they are poor. In spite of their living conditions – no electricity and no running water, the kids in their own way of saying it told us how much they are willing to attend school and learn everyday. In fact, according to them, they are now studying even though many times they were hindered by their present condition. I sat there struck by what I heard from these kids.

Already touched by these wonderful kids, my heart was even more filled with amazement when I heard the mothers speak. Each one of them narrated to us all their hardships and the challenges they had to face just to make sure their kids get proper education. Many times their kids go to school without any food or money with them. The meager income they get, either by selling street food, washing clothes for others, or pedaling a pedicab (a manually driven bicycle with a sidecar which is used to bring people from one point to another for a small fee), is just not enough for their family’s basic need.

They also have learned to maximize their resources. For example, they buy the cheapest shoes and uniform and they ask their children to be careful in using them, making sure that they last for as long as they can so that they will have enough time to earn money to buy another set. Some use the same set of uniforms and shoes for 2 years, some even 3. Some don’t even have shoes, they use flip flops to go to school.

Through it all, they have resolved in their hearts that they won’t let anything hinder them from sending their children to school. That’s why they are very thankful that God has given them this educational assistance program. What really amazes me is when they said that with or without the program, they will send their children to school. All of them said that the only treasure they can give their children is education. Many of them are suffering the consequences of not having a proper education when they were young that is why they don’t want their children to have the same experience.

After the meeting, me and my staff became more determined to help these kids. Not only that we are helping them go to school but the Lord also used the program to bring the mothers and their kids to church. The mothers regularly attend not only the worship service but also other church activities like prayer meetings and women’s fellowships. I told them that we don’t have the funds that will ensure their kids finish their education from elementary to college, but for as long as the Lord gives us the means, we will surely help them. They answered by saying, together with us, they too will rely on God. They will keep on believing in the God they have now trusted and He who gave them life and salvation.

Training Day Friday - Youth Mission Conference Promo

2011-02-25T09:07:00.001+08:00

Tender Ministry - Night Life

2011-02-25T08:56:00.002+08:00

Meet the YM Team - Rico Dizon, YM's Property Custodian

2011-02-23T16:53:00.005+08:00

(Rico at Hard Rock Cafe during YM's Team 2010 Christmas celebration)

I’m Honorico A. Dizon Jr., but to my friends and relatives I’m better known as Rico or Unyo (A Filipino short cut for Junior). I’m currently serving as a full-time missionary of International Teams Philippines under the Youth Mobilization (YM) team as the team’s property custodian.

Salvation:

I received Christ as my Lord and Savior in 2004. Before fully surrendering everything to Him, my life was a total mess. During my college days, I suddenly lost interest in studying, so I stopped going to school. Moreover, aside from having a lot of vices, I was also always looking for trouble; it seems that my day won’t be complete without doing anything crazy. My heart was full of frustration and hatred. I was simply a difficult person to be with.

Then one day, an old friend of mine in high school invited me to come to a party. I immediately said yes because I thought that it was a birthday party and that beer will be overflowing, just like how we celebrated parties before. Contrary to what I was expecting, no beer was served, not even a single drop. Instead my friend brought me to a youth fellowship. I met new friends and one of them invited me to a Bible Study the next day.

I will never forget that night, I even still remember the title of the teaching and that is “What on Earth Am I Here for?” The church that is leading the Bible Study was using one of the topics of the Purpose Driven Life series. Then, as if there was a screen in front of me, my life was flashed before me. One by one, I saw the bad things I did. I suddenly realized that I was created for a purpose and I wasn’t living according to that purpose. Before the teaching was over, I surrendered my life to Jesus, as the speaker invited those who would like to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. I also dedicated my life to Him promising that by His grace I will bring as many young people to Him as possible.

Calling:

(Rico and a kid from an Aeta tribe in Morong, Bataan - Kanawan Mission Trip, March 2008)

I received my calling from God to be missionary in 2006. I remember that when I was still in elementary school my history teacher taught us about the history of our country. One of her topics was when Spain came to the

Philippines

along with some missionaries. She also explained to us what a missionary is – that they are the ones who go from one place to another to share the Gospel to the people, God’s great good news. When I heard that, I said to myself that someday I will become a missionary; I want to go to different countries to share the love and good news of God.

But when God’s time came for me to obey His call, it didn’t come so smoothly. Aside from the fact that my parents may not understand my decision to follow God’s call, I also had fear in my heart. Where will I get the means to support my needs? What does it really mean to become a missionary? Do I have what it takes to become God’s servant? Many questions flooded my mind.

In the end, God proved Himself faithful once again – He really can make a way when it seems that we have met a dead end. He gave me the assurance that He will take care of me and He will teach me what I need to know. His words in Jeremiah 29:11 say it all, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Until now, I live in the strength of that promise. God really knows His plan for my life. He holds everything in His hands and He will be faithful until the end. He is the one prospering the work of my hands. Aside from YM, I am also serving as our church board treasurer and also as a youth adviser. As God continues to work out His plan for my life, I am assured of a future full of hope, all for God’s glory.

Looking Back, Looking Ahead - JKKCC's 3rd Anniversary

2011-02-22T15:57:00.003+08:00

Time and time again, we are witnesses of God's faithfulness and awesome power. Looking back as we celebrate Jesus King of Kings Community Church, one would immediately see God's faithfulness. Who would have known that what was once just a dream will become a reality. We have already been ministering to a group of young people who were former gang members for quite sometime when Rodel, a former gang leader himself and an YM team member shared his unusual dream. He said that he saw young people coming out of a building where he could also hear people singing worship songs.

He couldn't understand the dream then, as short as it was, but deep in his heart, he knew, it wasn't just his own. God is up to something although it is not clear yet. During that time our ministry to the street gangs was only through friendship evangelism and home Bible study groups. Since we have been doing the Bible study for more than a year, we decided to invite the youth to attend church services. Sad to say, none of them wanted to continue attending, the churches then were not ready to receive former gang members. Not that they don't want to, but they just were new to the idea of ministering to former street gang members.

But we really wanted to teach the youth how to worship God, so we said to ourselves, why not just hold a worship service just for them. That's one great idea, but the problem is, we don't have a place nor the equipment and the manpower to do so. Finally, YM agreed to let us use the training room for the worship service. So in the afternoon of the first Sunday of February 2008, we held our very first worship. A handful of young people came. Everything was borrowed - the sound system, chairs, instruments and even the instrumentalist, but the worship time was so great. It is so glorious to see the young people we are ministering learning how to worship God.

(JKKCC'S FIRST WORSHIP SERVICE IN 2008)

Even though the worship service was great, questions still linger in our minds. Should we continue the service, Sunday after Sunday? Where will we get the funds to pay rent and utilities? Who will lead this new ministry since no one in our team knows how to plant a church? How can we sustain it if it becomes a church since we don't have any workers and even if workers come, where will we get the funds to support them?

Another Sunday came and we held yet another worship service. Many Sundays came and we lost track of time, and yet, we kept on worshiping God. Many other young people came until the room became packed. Mothers came too. After a year of doing it, we finally saw the outcome - a church was born but honestly no one wants to plant one because no one knows how to do so.

(THREE MONTHS AFTER - THE CHURCH BEGINS TO GROW)

(JKKCC'S FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY)

We came to one conclusion - God uses the foolish to shame the wise. It is not by man's wisdom that JKKCC was born, but by God's. Since it is God who made it happen, He will be the one to provide for all the needs of the church. Funds came for rent, utilities and other needs; and workers one by one came too. Backed by God's miracles, we have agreed to do one thing - to keep moving forward. We always look ahead knowing that God's power is available for us. He gave us the promise to never leave us nor forsake us.

Now after three years, JKKCC story remains the same - it is all about God's faithfulness and awesome power. He is faithful to fulfill all His promises - even the dream he showed Rodel many years back. JKKCC now is renting the 5th floor of a building for its worship services and ministries, the third venue they have used in the last three years. The two previous ones were in a building too. Rodel finally understands the dream he had. JKKCC is the fulfillment of that dream.

The church keeps on growing. Aside from the worship service, it has a Day Care Center, a feeding ministry and an educational program aside from the ministries to the mothers and the youth. All of these are testimonies of God's abiding presence and awesome power. As the church look ahead, everybody is excited for more of what God is doing today and what He has prepared in the future. The best is yet to come! JKKCC - Happy 3rd Year Anniversary!!!

Saturday - BK Day Care Plans 2011

2011-02-05T22:52:00.001+08:00

Batang Krayola (BK) Plans for 2011

A. Day Care Center

OBJECTIVES:

To teach the little children about God and for them to grow in their relationship with Him.
To help them study especially on reading and writing
To build relationships with their families

SCHEULES:

March

4 - Graduation Day (School Year 2010-2011)

June

1-3 - Enrolment

7 - Opening of Classes for School Year 2011-2012

August

26 - Family Day

December

9 - Christmas Party

B. Christmas Parties

OBJECTIVES:

As we hold 8 Christmas Parties this year, we would like:

To help the partner Church in sharing the Gospel to its local community.
To share God’s love through giving and sharing with the kids the true meaning of Christmas.
To Celebrate Christmas with the children.

Schedule:

December 1-10, 2011

C. Ministry to the Partner Churches of YM

OBJECTIVES:

To empower existing kids’ ministries of our partner Church.
To set a monthly mission program and send missionaries within our partner church that aims to help their kids’ ministries. We are targeting 11 missionaries per each partner church every month.
To conduct seminars within our partner church that will develop their kids’ ministries. We are targeting 11 Seminars for our 11 partner Church this year.

Training Day Friday - Paulo's Testimony

2011-02-05T22:28:00.003+08:00

Paulo's Testimony (One of the youth leaders who attended many of YM's training programs)

(Paulo Montano, a Nursing Graduate and Youth President of Light Of Men Ministries, Caloocan)

God is amazing because He gave me an opportunity to be part of what the Youth Mobilization (YM) Training Department is doing to the youth leaders of their partner churches!

My church, Light of Men Ministry is one of YM’s partner churches. Last March 14-15, YM held an Overnight Modular Training (OMT) in our church. This training touched on visioning, character building and organizing youth ministry. It helped us to be more fruitful, organize, and passionate in handling and leading the ministry as well as helping us to make smart and achievable plans. Aside from helping us see God’s vision for our lives and putting those visions into programs, the said training created a great impact in our personal lives and it united us. We became so on fire that we were able to organize an evangelistic concert in our community in Caloocan. We held this concert last April and it was a successful one.

(Paulo reporting during the OMT held at Light of Men Ministries Inc, his mother church)

After the OMT, YM continued to encourage youth leaders to participate in other training opportunities they are offering to churches. They invited our church to send two of our youth leaders to participate in their mission conference called Windows YP. The theme of the 3-day youth mission conference held in Makati last October was “Fusion for Explosion”. Even though I had work on those days, I really wanted to attend. So I decided to file a leave in my work and if ever they will not approve it, then I will resign. Also, I was wondering if my church will be able to support me financially so that I can attend the conference. I was so blessed to see that God made a way - my leave was approved and my church supported me financially. God gave me the opportunity to participate in that conference which I considered a big thing because I know that God will use the conference to bring my service to Him to the next level. Also I was eagerly looking forward to learning things about missions.

(Paulo in Malaysia with other youth leaders and two YM staff)

As I attended the conference, God opened my heart to the reality that there are many people out there who are in need of love and care that we already have in Christ Jesus. Not only that I heard the call to bear fruit - fruit that will last, but also to reach out for more souls and to bring change in this world. I realized that for change to happen in this world, change must first start in our own personal lives. We must leave our comfort zone, and we need to go out and share His love to other people. Moreover, God wants us to move, live and operate in His power. Realizing this, I then asked myself, “What are our big problems compared to how big our God is? Surely He is greater than everything we have and what we can do. God is so big, so strong and so mighty!

To God be all the Glory!

IT Tender Ministry - Anjo Rivera (Another Reason Why We Should Sponsor A Child)

2011-02-05T21:57:00.003+08:00

(Anjo Rivera, 5 years Old)

(Where Anjo and his family live in Sucat, Parañaque)

Anjo Rivera lives in one of the poor communities in Sucat, Parañaque City. Since birth the child was in the street with his family. Together with his two other siblings, his father Joel and his mother Joan, they beg in order to provide for their daily needs. One day, Joan his mother was invited to join a women’s camp and in that camp, one of the problems she mentioned was about her child Anjo. She wanted Anjo to enroll but they don’t have enough money to do so. As a result, one of the counselors donated an enough amount of money so that Anjo can enroll and buy school supplies and other requirements needed in the school. The child was so excited when he heard that he can now go to the school. On the other hand, Joan his mother was really thankful that the Lord heard her prayers. Furthermore, she willingly accepted the rules and guidelines set by IT Tender Ministry for its Educational Assistance Program. She showed her full commitment and participation in the program by submitting all receipts, by helping Anjo with his daily homework, and by attending meetings required by the school.

Last July 12, 2010, IT Tender Ministry staff visited Anjo in his house and in his school located at Upper Sucat Day Care Center. Anjo proudly wore his uniform and Joan told us about how Anjo is really excited go to school everyday. On our way to school, I noticed that Anjo walks rather in an awkward way. Apparently, he is still adjusting to his new shoes, because all his life, this is his very first time to wear shoes. At that very point, we realized that we are witnessing a dream of a child coming true. It is indeed the start of big changes in his life. What used to be one of the street children is now in school. Indeed, we praise God for what he did in the life of this child.

(This post is based from the article written by Gila T. Basiwa, IT Tender Ministry's Administrator, entitled "Case Study of Anjo Rivera")

(Anjo in his new uniform and his Mother, Joan)

(Anjo at the Day Care Center)

Meet the YM Team - Mackie Custodio's Personal Testimony

2011-02-03T09:45:00.011+08:00

My real name is Merman Custodio but my friends and relatives call me Mackie. I am 29 years old, happily married to Lerma and just very recently, one lovely daughter was born to us, Yanara Micah. Currently, I work for International Teams Philippines as a missionary under the Youth Mobilization (YM) team. I am one of the trainers of the Training Department. Aside from YM, I am also helping a church in Makati, Jesus Kings of Kings Community Church, focusing on the discipleship program for the members.

It was 16 six year ago, March 1995 when I came to know the Lord Jesus as my Lord and savior. I came from a poor but a big family. I had 6 brothers and 3 sisters. My father was a freelance automotive painter. Not really having a facility to do his job, He would paint cars on our street, so when it rains, he can’t do his job. In spite of not having many customers, most of the time when he got some, instead of buying food for his family, he would spend the day's earnings to liquor and other vices. Also, since that painting cars was the only trade he knew, he forced us, his sons to work for him without really compensating any of us for the work we did. That’s why I grew up with resentment and anger to the point that I became rebellious to my father.

That rebelliousness became evident when I entered high school. Having found new friends, who influenced me to skip school; we spend most of our time in shopping malls. It was almost every day that I cut class just to go with my classmates. After a few months, my teacher didn’t want to accept me anymore because of the many days that I didn’t attend class. She asked me to bring my parents so she could talk to them. I didn’t know what to do then because my parents didn’t know that I was skipping school. I felt so helpless. I was in such a hopeless situation that I didn’t know where to go. It seems that no one can help me with my problem.

Until one day, the youth pastor of the church where my sisters attend Bible study invited me to attend their youth fellowship. Wanting to have more friends, I attended the youth fellowship. That was my first time to attend a Christian church. As the program continued, the youth leader gave a message that seems to be speaking about my situation. It was like the youth leader was only talking to me. He was talking not just about my problem and hopeless situation but also who can help me. I felt like a sheep, wandering in the wilderness and then the shepherd (God) suddenly came searching for me, calling my very name to come to Him.

The message became so personal to me that night. It was so clear that Jesus is inviting me to come and know Him as my personal Lord and Savior. Being hopeless and in need of a Lord and Savior, I gave my hope, faith and life to God. Right after that prayer, I felt so relieved and I had so much joy that I never had before.

After the service I met friends who helped me grow in the Lord. They even helped me to explain my situation to my parents and to my teachers. They helped me to resolve my problem in school and in my family. As I continued to grow in the Lord, I have learned how to forgive and how to be free from angry and guilt.

Then my deep passion in serving the Lord also grew. I saw myself serving in various ministries of our church. I became part of the pastoral ministry, youth ministry and administration of the church.

I even had the chance to go to England for a mission trip. Together with another co-worker of our local church, we ministered in Luton, England for four months. God used that mission trip to open my eyes to missions. I realized that people in different cultures and different walks of life need God in their lives. God touched my heart and I responded to His call for missions. I resolved in my heart that from day on that I will be involved in mission.

It wasn’t easy though as I received a lot of criticism and discouragement after I decided to pursue God’s call. There were many times that people close to me who doesn’t know the Lord, told me that I won’t survive without a secular job. For them, being missionary means I won’t have any means to support my needs. Even my mother discouraged me to the point that she nagged me to get a job instead of serving in missions. But I held on to God’s promises that God will provide for my needs. He will never let His people run out of resources because He will be the one to provide for all their needs.

Amidst criticisms and discouragements but armed with God promises, I pressed on. Now after more than 5 years of serving God as a missionary, God proved Himself once again as faithful and true. Since 2005 when I joined International Teams Philippines, until now, God has never been late in providing for my needs and for the needs of my wife and daughter. Not only that He is faithful to my personal life but He has also shown faithfulness in the ministry. He is truly blessing the work of our hands. Through the YM team, many youth in different churches are responding to missions. Countless youth and youth leaders are being trained and exposed to various ministries, here in the Philippines and in other countries. As a result, they are becoming a big blessing to their church as well as to their communities.

As I look back, I am glad that God called me to missions and then gave me the grace to pursue His call. The more we train youth leaders the more I can see God’s faithfulness. It became my driving force that’s why we never get tired of training and discipling youth and youth leaders. As a result of that drive, we started a mini-bible school in our church. I called it Be E, a name I derived from its purpose - Be Enlightened, Be Empowered and Be Equipped. I am praying that it will become a formal bible school someday.

All glory belongs to our God!

The JKKCC Story

2011-02-01T22:02:00.003+08:00

Word For This Sunday - When God Uses Ordinary People (Genesis 12:1-3)

2011-01-30T22:05:00.000+08:00

When God Uses Ordinary People (Genesis 12:1-3)

I am always fascinated with how God uses ordinary things and ordinary men to accomplish His supernatural purpose. Through-out the Bible, we can see so many examples of this. Who would have known that an ordinary shepherd boy will become a king? Even Jesse his father never thought of David when Samuel came to their house to anoint the next king of Israel. How about a dead piece of wood? While others consider it as good only for cooking or making our body feel warm, God used it to demonstrate His awesome power. Imagine what Moses would have felt whenever he obeys God to use his staff. It parted the Red Sea, quenched the thirst of the Israelites, defeated the magicians of the Pharaoh, etc. We can go on and on and we will not have enough time to mention them all but one thing’s for sure, God uses ordinary things and men to do His extraordinary work.

In the 12^th chapter of Genesis, we will see another ordinary man, he is in his mid-70, and most likely, he has already enjoyed what the good life has to offer. Although he doesn’t have a son, for sure he has experienced God’s abundant blessings. Maybe he’s thinking of slowing down, retiring into a nice quiet place in Haran.

But as we all know it, God has another plan. His story won’t end in a retirement village somewhere; in fact, God will use him for one great purpose – to bless the whole world.

Have you ever felt this way? You think your life has reached its end. Maybe some people think or say that way about you because of a certain incident in the past or because of your present situation. For them, you won’t go anywhere, you have met your end - that God can’t use you anymore because you’re too old or too young; or because you’re weak; or because of your failures in the past.

Be encouraged by this – if God can use a 75 year old nobody and barren, then He can use as too to become His channel of blessing. We’re no Abrahams, but we have the same God who up to know calls and uses His people for His extra-ordinary purposes.

Through Abraham’s example, we will see 3 important things when God uses ordinary people for His extra-ordinary purpose.

1. It all starts with a call! – (Genesis 12:1) The LORD had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you.

For Abraham, it wasn’t an easy call. Imagine gathering all your belongings for the purpose of going on a trip. He has already settled there for 75 years – made a family, and made a name for himself. That place is his very comfort zone. To make it worse, he won’t know where to go, until he starts the journey. God is to show him where to go as he goes. Why not just tell Abraham now? When God calls, He wants us to fully trust in Him. Sometimes He won’t tell us everything we need to know. We are to fully live by faith and not by sight.

So yes, God starts it with a call but He wants us to pursue it by faith. It won’t be easy and many times we won’t understand God’s ways and methods, but that is God’s way – using our physical senses won’t work. Only through the eyes of faith can we see clearly. As the Apostle Paul once said, our faith will become sight. As we obey God and move in faith, then we will see and understand what He is doing in and through us.

2. We can not out-give God. – (Genesis 12:2) "I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.

It is interesting to see that God asked Abraham to do three things: (1) Leave your country; (2) Leave your relatives; (3) Leave your household. Then God promised him also three things: (1) I will make you a great nation; (2) I will bless you; (3) I will make your name great. It is not just that for every thing that Abraham would do for God, God has something for Abraham in return. God multiplies a thousand-fold what Abraham gives Him. As Abraham leaves his country, God makes him a great nation. As Abraham leaves his relatives – his source of strength, comfort, encouragement and resources, God blesses him. From now on, Abraham will get strength, comfort, encouragement and resources directly from God. As Abraham leaves his household – the very place where he grew up, developed his being and the place where he got his name, God gives him a great name.

How many times have we experienced this? The God whom we serve is mighty. Whatever we give to Him, He gives back in ways beyond what we could ever imagine. In Luke 6:38, it says, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

3. We become part of God’s purpose especially in blessing the whole world. – (Genesis 12:3) I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you."

It’s not just that Abraham will be blessed but others will be blessed through him. Abraham becomes God’s channel of blessing not just to the people around him but also to the whole world. The Lord will only bless the world through him.

Wow, imagine what went on Abraham’s mind. At 75 years old, for sure, Abraham has already become a part of many things. He became part of his family, community, work, and even his country. But this time, as he obeys God’s call, he will become a part of what God is doing in the whole world.

Our God is indeed bigger than what we think He is. When we obey Him, the Lord widens the scope of our service. It is true that if we can be trusted with little, He will entrust to us bigger things. Our small step of obedience can result into something bigger – even as big as becoming God’s channel of blessing the whole world.

BK Day Care Ministry - The Story of Princess

2011-01-29T05:43:00.001+08:00

We would love to share just one example of how our daycare is really impacting the lives of the street children and their families. Princess is a six-year old street-child living in Metro Manila. Her mother earns a meager salary as a pedicab driver in the community. Her father, previously known for drinking excessively in the streets, is now in prison. Ever since Princess was born, her mother felt distressed about how she would take care of her child. When she gave birth to Princess, she couldn't afford the hospital costs to deliver the baby with any aid from a doctor or nurse. As Princess grew up, her parents couldn't afford to let her go to school. However, once we opened our new daycare center, street children like Princess finally had a safe place to get an education, to look up to good role models, and to experience the grace, compassion, and love of the Lord. Without a father figure, Princess bonded quickly with the male teachers and helpers in the daycare. Her heart and attitude softened, and a new sense of joy was evident in her everyday life. She experienced new feelings of confidence and accomplishment upon learning the alphabet and learning how to print her own name.

Princess's mother often tells us how happy and blessed she feels to know she now has help in raising her child. One day, Princess's mother saw three of us walking in the rain, and she quickly offered to bike us home in her pedicab. Even though she doesn't earn much through her job, she still tried to refuse our money when we paid her the fare. She said that the reason why she didn't want us to pay is because she feels we have done so much for her and her family. In fact, Princess's mother really wants to learn more about us volunteers and about our church. She attended our church for the first time last Sunday! Praise God for the way a mother can be moved and can experience blessings through our love for her daughter. Only by the grace of God is our daycare able to influence entire families, and to Him we give all the glory!

Training Day Friday - Plans for 2011

2011-01-28T09:55:00.002+08:00

TRAINING DEPARTMENT PLAN FOR 2011

Goals for the year 2011:

Be able to train 800 youth leaders in 65 different churches.
Be able to follow-up 500 youth leaders who have undergone OMT and Window’s YP Conferences.
To have 10 additional volunteers for the Training Dept who will work with us during OMT and other trainings of the Training Dept.
Be able to mentor and disciple 10 youth leaders who have experienced a mission exposure trip through YM Touch Trips.

Events & Activities

Overnight Modular Training - every 3^rd and 4^th Friday & Saturday of the month
Window’s YP Conference/Missions Camp - once a year (May)
Leader Mundial Manila (for Pastors and Church Leaders) - once a year (October 26-29)
Follow – up of Youth Leaders - once a month visit (partner churches) and weekly through email/fb (trained and sent)
Other Trainings and Seminars – (DVBS, Sunday School, etc.) – upon request
Youth Ministry Conference (Small-scale conferences) - 1^st Friday/Saturday of the month
Mentoring and Discipleship - 2^nd Friday/Saturday of the month

Contact us:

To find out more about these events, contact any of the following:

Anne Benavidez (YM Training Director)

open_heavens777@yahoo.com

Mobile: +63283867339

Pen Pen Bullo (YM Partnership Director)

jopen927@yahoo.com

+639166593814/+639226891276/+639993948910

Che-Che Torredes (YM Secretary & Touch Trips Coordinator)

youthmobtouchtrips@yahoo.com

+639166523427/+639293955533