White sand beaches, vibrant green mountains and palm trees, crystal clear blue water, and beautiful children.
Yes, this is the World Race.
Team H.O.P.E. is living at Aninuan Christian Church in the middle of an awesome island community in Puerto Galera, Mindoro, Philippines this month. We are blessed to be under the covering of Pastor Al, Ate (ah-tay) Marina and their daughter Jojo who have loved us and served us and truly blessed us in our first week here. Pastor Al is incredibly wise, has a huge heart for others, and speaks truth with such authority and conviction. We also have a pet monkey, Muy Muy, who has stolen Jessica's heart. (click for video)
Aninuan Christian Church (the bottom half is the open air sanctuary/residence and the top is a huge basketball court)
Team H.O.P.E. with Ate Helen (light blue), Pastor Al (red), Jojo (purple), and Ate Marina (orange). We are eating like kings (and queens) this month thanks to Helen and Marina! Check out Peter's food blog for more info on the awesome meals)
Our ministry this month looks like:
We are building relationships with the families in the community, helping Jojo with childrens programs in surrounding neighborhoods on Saturdays, helping out with Wednesday prayer meetings (about 300 community members) and Sunday church service (750 people – about 200 youth/children that we have the privilege of working with!), and some construction around the church. This week we've played a small part in breaking down an old hut to help build a new one!
The Lord is moving in Puerto Galera. We are honored to be a part of His plan and His giant love for the people of this community and we are looking forward to diving in deeper over the next few weeks! Thank you for praying for us and for the people of the Philippines.
