An excellent opportunity

We are pleased to be able to return to this location in our ‘A Taste of Mission’ (ATOM) programme. The Philippines is a nation of over 7000 islands in SE Asia and its people have been described as ‘the happy people’; whenever you meet them or talk with them, they are friendly and smiling. Almost everyone speaks English, which is unique for Asia.

Helping the local communities

After arriving from the UK, a time of orientation will help us to learn about the culture and the people of the Philippines. As a developing country with complete freedom of religion, there are many situations where visitors can make a real difference. This summer, we have a special opportunity to do exactly that in two locations in the country. The only requirement is a willingness to help and flexibility!

Operation Mobilisation’s work among the street children

Cebu is the second city of the Philippines. The large number of street children in the country is a challenge that the team from Operation Mobilisation has taken up. Through careful networking, they have built up a growing and successful feeding and education programme in conjunction with many local churches. The opportunity for Oak Hall to be involved in this ministry is unique and those who take part can be sure they will be making a real difference to the young lives that would otherwise be neglected and exploited. As well as practical work, there will be the chance to join with the children in their programmes. The Sunday spent on the island will be an occasion to experience the vibrancy and commitment of the believers as they join together for worship. We will also spend time enjoying the sea.

An exciting, local initiative

Manila, the capital city, has over 14 million people and is home to Missions Ministries Philippines (MMP), an indigenous movement that seeks to help the urban poor using a successful holistic approach. The work of MMP includes church planting, medical outreach, Bible studies, agriculture and practical help. Under Pastor Winston Pinzon, one of the leaders, we will be divided into groups and introduced to some of the great variety of their work. We will live with one of the local missionaries and minister with them in an area of poverty. No two days will be the same! This time spent with the local missionaries was a time of great mutual encouragement for the previous ATOM group. Again, Sunday will be a special time to join the local believers in Christian worship.

Experiencing the local culture

During our visit, we will experience some of the delicious local food, and the availability of fresh and cheap tropical fruit is not to be missed. We will also have the chance to ride in a jeepney, the Filipino taxi based on the US American WW2 jeep, a unique experience!

Not only will we return home refreshed, but deeply challenged by what we have seen and discovered in this remarkable Asian nation.