A Hard Goodbye.

My time now in the Philippines has come to an end. It is difficult to say goodbye. I have come to find so many people that have found a place in my heart. I thank you for your prayers and support, you have no idea how much they have helped. The time for Norco in Philippines '09 has come to a close. In a few hours I will be headed back to California. I am happy to be reunited with you all, but sad to leave the family I have found in the Philippines.

Jeff Long

Anyone who has been connected or had some experience with K.I.M. knows Jeff Long. For two months I have had a great opportunity to watch the director of Kids International Ministries in action. All of his staff loves and respects him. His children and wife admire him. The Filipinos of the surrounding area respect him. And they rightly do. I can not describe all the times I have witnessed how his simple sharpness quickly brings a solution to a problem. He always has to be moving, doing five things at a time. And he always knows how to accommodate people.

However, it has been in simple expressions of gentleness that I have seen what makes "Sir Jeff" simply Jeff from Kansas. I have seen how he is with the children. "Uncle Jeff" never hesitates to pick up a child and lay a big one on their cheek. Immediately he shifts from the tough-guy into the big teddy bear. He also never hesitates to help anyone in need. If someone needed the shirt off of his back he would give it without even thinking about it.

This is the Jeff Long I am glad to have gotten to know; the simple Kansas boy who is doing his best to live out Faith in Manila.

Myles De Ocampo

Myles is another key staff member in K.I.M. Officially she is the travel agent who oversees everyones coming in and out of the Philippines, which is no small number. If there is someone traveling somewhere in connection with K.I.M. she has either set it up or knows about it. She also acts as a host to short term teams who find their way into the madness of Manila. Her two children, Jam and Tina, are regular figures around the childrens home and school. K.I.M. would find it hard to function without her help.

Besides serving K.I.M. full-time she is a light in her community. She operates a children's ministry out of her home further into Manila. If weather permits, on a weekly basis children from the surrounding area gather for a time of games, food, and the Gospel. Our team enjoyed serving Myles with her ministry while all of us were here, and I have tried to fill in for them. During my last meeting with the Children we showed "The Chronicles of Narnia." With a projector, screen, soundsystem and movie borrowed from K.I.M. we all gathered around at 6pm Saturday night. The storm surrounding us added to the drama as we watched. The popcorn went quickly and most of it ended up on the floor. At first the children had a hard time getting into the movie, because it was in english. However, once the action began every one was wide-eyed and silent. After the movie Myles and I explained the connection to Jesus Christ and the Cross. I summarized and Myles translated, and added what was lacking. It was the first time most of those children have ever watched a movie on a projector like that, and in some cases the first movie ever seen.

Myles is an extrodinary woman who is doing great things for children, whether the kids of K.I.M. or the children of her community.

"Brad"

As I said before, there have been two young men I have come to know as brother. Sir Errol of Manila and my brad(bro) in Malaybalay, Donald. In the short time I have had to live out faith with them, they have become my Kuya's.

Donald is the all around go to guy at the Children's home in Mindanao. He is the driver, official papparrazi, un-official host, tech-man, and also works on the K.I.M. website. He is also the Kuya (Big Brother) to the boys and girls in Mindanao. He is committed to his local church body. He leads his fellow siblings in Christ in weekly bible study....all with a cool attitude and great sense of humor. The home in Mindanao runs much more smoothly with Donald around. He is a young professional who decided to turn down a job opportunity in New Zealand to work with K.I.M. Just one of the many reasons he has my respect.

While in Bukidnon we hung out and shared life. I pray that I helped sharpen him up as much as he has sharpened me. Most would think that 3 weeks is not enough time to gain a friend; in 2 weeks I gained a brother.

Sir Errol.

During my stay, I have been fortunate enough to meet two brothers whom I pray will be lifetime friends. They are two young men who are serious about their faith and are livin' it out. One is my brother in Manila....the kids at the children's home call him "Sir Errol."

To be honest I do not remember how I first met Errol, but I can be sure that I will not forget him. He is the P.E. teacher at the JCCV (Jesus Christ Church in the Valley) School and a consistent figure in the lives of the Children of K.I.M. Manila. He is the Basketball coach, swimming instructor, soccer coach, and pretty much all things sports for the School and Children's home kids. He is an easy going and soft spoken guy who lets his actions speak louder than his words. He is a role model for the boys and girls, and a vital part of the K.I.M. ministry.

Over the last two months I have gotten to know Errol and can confidently call him my friend. We have enjoyed hanging out with one another. I coached him through his first game of bowling, but the second one I had nothing to do with. He has invited me over to his house several times to see his infamous pigs. We're about even in billiards. A few times he has allowed me to help him out with coaching the kids (more like being an official fan). And on several occasions we have spent hours building each other up with scripture and encouragement. In short, to share all about "Sir Errol" in a blog would be a failing attempt. Though we come from two different worlds we have found a bond stronger than national or racial ties. We have found that the same "Blood" flows through our veins, that is why I am proud not to only call "Sir Errol" my friend, but my brother.

The Boys.

Meet the Boys. When I have not been spending time in the Provinces, or road trippin', I have been in Manila pulling 8-to-5's with the Boy's. The construction workers of the K.I.M. have become good friends. K.I.M. has done an excellent job in ministering to the needs of the local squatter community in many ways, and one has been to create jobs for some of the Filipino men in the area--the construction workers. Witnessing these 20+ men in action has been a privilege. They are skilled carpenters, electricians, and masons. Their work ethic is incredible. Every morning they arrive at 8am and leave at 5pm. They work Monday through Saturday. I have not seen one guy miss a day, and they all seemingly enjoy what they do.

Being able to work side-by-side with this group of guys has been an honor to me, and much fun. The day never goes without a joke and a laugh. We come together with humor. We usually admonish each other sarcastically yelling "Malupiton!" (which can mean champion, or a kid who needs to be spanked). We also pass time by singing. It starts with one guy softly singing a Beatles song or Micheal Jackson then it builds into three to four guys belting out the chorus.

We laugh together, we work together, and we take time to read together. Beginning in the middle of July we began to have bible study everyday for a half an hour after lunch. Around 1pm we gather around, they read the selected verses in Tagalog and I use Tag-lish. After each trip upon my return they have always asked me, "Joe. Bible study today?"

These are my boys.

Meet the Girls.

Every morning the routine usually goes the same. Wake up. Wash my face. Yawn. Look at the clock. Wet my face again because by this time its hot. Listen to the commotion on the street outside. Walk to the kitchen for coffee. Then I meet smiling faces; "Maghanda Umaga ".

The Kitchen staff here at the YMC have been a true joy to meet every early morning. I have grown accustomed to waking up to a cup of coffee and the greeting "Maghanda Umaga" (Good morning). From sun up to sun down Ate La-ling, Ate Marilou, and Ate Lydia hold down the kitchen. They cook for everyone at the YMC, making sure that no one goes hungry. They make the YMC more of a home.

They are always caring and eager to serve. When I have been sick they have taken care of me; sometimes making remedies that I really wish they hadn't. I would sit as Ate La-ling served me Kalamansi Juice with mashed garlic. As I would choke down the garlic she would tease me, "what's wrong Joe? Are you home sick? Do you miss your mommy?" Then Ate Lydia would chime in, "No. He is love sick!"

The three Ladies are never without a smile. They have made the YMC feel like home for the last two months.

Meet Tatay Rollie

So here I am at the final lap. I thought it would be fitting to spend the last week of my time in Manila sharing with you the people I have come to know and love. So, for the remaining days I will take time to share with you several people with whom I have had the privilege to build relationships with.

Tatay Rollie

Part of the core that makes up the Filipino Staff of K.I.M. Manila. Rollie is the construction foreman, so he has been my boss for the last two months. He is a very pleasant guy, always laughing and smiling. At about 5'4" his stature is not very domineering, but he easily has the respect of all the workers and myself. This morning I sat with Rollie as we usually do. But today he shared with me the story of how his wife was cured from tumor on her ovary. As we sat it was clear how much he loved and adored his wife. From every detail I imagined, having never seen his wife, a petite Filipina who is quiet and always with a smile. With eyes watery and clasping his trembling fingers Rollie described the story and his wife to me. "She has been very good to me" he said, "even when I was crazy." I have yet to hear his testimony. He promises a great story, and always says we have to sit down and take some time because it is a long story. I look forward to hearing it before I leave.

Urac and Paito

On August 20th a group of K.I.M. staff meembers from the Malaybalay site and myself traveled 5hrs to the western coast of Mindanao. We traveled to the city of Iligan to pick up two children who are now a part of the K.I.M. family, Urac and Paito. Just when I think I have a grip on things there always seems to be something new.lf traveled 5hrs to the western coast of Mindanao. We traveled to the city of Iligan to pick up two children who are now a part of the K.I.M. family, Urac and Paito. Just when I think I have a grip on things there always seems to be something new.

The staff organized a feeding and presentation to show some of the people in the area what K.I.M. is. Since the children's home has had two children from the area and now four, the staff thought it to be appropriate to show where the children were going. We arrived to the farm which was arrangend to be the site of our presentation. Within minutes the place was packed with Mothers and their children. Donald showed pictures from his laptop as he described K.I.M. in Visayan. Everyone gathered around to catch a glimpse of the computer screen. Shortly after food was served. The spaghetti with meatballs and rice vanished immediately. I was suprised we had enough for everyone, children and mothers included. Everyone seemed to especially enjoy the granola bars for dessert. Kids continued to play for a short time and once the food was finished it was time to leave.


On the way home we stopped with our van full of children, staff, one white guy, and Urac and Paito to eat dinner. Everyone sat and ate happily while puzzled locals tried to sneak glances at our table. I thought Urac and Paito might have a hard time, but to my suprise they seemed to fit-in naturally. Our unusual family laughed and smiled as we ate our rice and barbequed chicken. In between the chicken I wrestled with how a parent can abandon their children, ss was the cse with Urac and Paito. Just that day several mothers approached our staff asking them to take their children...how bad do living conditions have to be for a parent to be willing to give up their child? How do you measure the chance of a better life over seperation of a child from their parent? I looked up at Urac to see him with hands full, cheeks stuffed and smiling. I smiled back...welcome to reality joe.

3 Day Weekend.....Pinoy style.

The time in Mindanao, or better yet Malaybalay City, has been very enjoyable. Being re-united with the self dubbed "Pinoy Mafia" (not sure why) has been a blast. It is interesting to me how you can meet people across the world and yet click on so many levels. So it goes without saying that getting back into the mix with my brothers and sisters in Mindanao has been effortless.

FRIDAY: This last Friday night they invited me to lead their weekly bible study. So around 7pm we gathered at Jason's house. After some food we piled into his room and began digging in. We spent some serious time discussing Sin, moving from Romans 8:12-13.

SATURDAY: Saturday began bright and early at Camp Mt. Moriah (the children's home). It was the weekly children's ministry for children of the city and surrounding areas. At 9am youth from surrounding Universities and Colleges are picked up for Counselors training--some coming from an hour away. They then spent several hours of instruction and training in teaching materials for the children. We ate lunch together and by the time we had finished it was 12:30pm and time to pick up the children. I rode with one of the drivers to one of the "Burangas" (villages) where we picked up two van loads of children...and I mean van loads. By the time we finished our second run it was 2:30pm. The event begins around 2pm, but we were on what the locals call "Filipino time", so no worries. The 100+ children then spent the next 2hrs in separate teaching groups, singing songs, playing games and eating. After the children have finished it was time for the counselors to debrief, so the 30 counselors sat and shared about the days events. Around 5:30pm it was time for Donald(K.I.M staff member, and founding Pinoy Mafia member) and I to get back onto the road again. 19 Counselors stuffed themselves into the van and we took them back to the city of Vincente, which was an hour away.

SUNDAY; Got the chance to go to Jun's church. He is the chairman of the board for K.I.M. and is pasturing a church in the heart of Malaybalay City. We got to the catering business, which is the site of the church chapel for Sunday, at 9am. After greeting him he asked for some information to introduce me to the church and then asked if I could share my testimony with them, I complied happily. I spoke in English and the youth pastor translated in Visayan. After the service the youth pastor told me about a program that has been instituted by the mayor for University students. The "Character Formation Program" is a program which makes it mandatory for students who receive funding from the mayor's office to attend a weekly Sunday night worship/teaching ministry. Tonight was the first meeting and the youth pastor asked me if I would be willing to share my testimony at the event, I complied. So, around 7pm I sat in on the invocation of the "Character Formation Program" of Bukidnon State University. With some 100+ students in attendance I gave my best effort to speak clear coherent English and shared with them the sinner I knew best. With students and mayor in attendance I proceeded to share that I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ because it is the power of God to save sinners; both like me and any in the crowd who would believe.

...It has been a long weekend.

By Land and By Sea…

It all started with a casual conversation with Jeff Long, the director of K.I.M. It went something like this; “Monday we’ve got a truckload of supplies headed down to Mindanao. It is a 3 day drive through beautiful countryside…”
“Really? 3 days through the Philippines?”
A nod.
“Is there any way I can get involved with that?”
Another nod.
“Alright, sign me up.”
58 hours, three major Islands, over 1,700 Kilometers, two ferry rides—all nonstop—altogether amounts to the road trip of a lifetime.

Jun, Jesse and myself just spent 58 hours traveling from Manila to Malaybalay city. We transported a truckload of supplies from the YunJin Ministry center in Manila to the Children’s home in Malaybalay. We got off to a slow start Monday night, but once the alternator was fixed (it powers the lights) there was no looking back. We then spent the next three days venturing through beautiful countryside. Winding through village after village, jungle after jungle, I experienced the Philippines first hand. We only stopped a few times to eat in make shift restaurants, which were really people serving and selling food out of their homes. We would eat our “sinigal” or “adobo” with a plate of rice and a glass of coca-cola while we left the truck running. Besides that we did stop one morning to take a shower, or more like paid a woman to use her hose and bucket. However, amidst the mad-dash there were some enjoyable moments of pause. One night on our second ferry I stood on the top deck against the railing admiring a partly cloudy sky, bright stars, lightning in the distance and I remember thinking to myself “do you realize where you are?”—moments were all you can do is stand in awe (ps. 46:10).

I miss you all dearly and look forward to seeing you. I will stay in Mindanao for another week helping with construction at the Children’s home, as well as strive to live out life with my recently found brothers and sisters here in Malaybalay. Pray for your brothers and sisters here. And, selfishly I ask, that I would finish the remaining 3 weeks strong.

From Isabela to Mindanao

With the trip to the North still on my mind it's time to head back to Mindanao. In just a few hours I will be joining a few drivers on a 3 day trip by truck to Malaybalay City. The truck will be hauling supplies to the southern orphanage of K.I.M. We will be traveling from the northern most island of the Philippines to the furthest island south. Well, be back in 3 days.

Isabella---Unforgetable

I just got back from 4 days in the northern province of Isabella. It was a very rural area. There is too much to say in one blog post, so I will do my best. In the 4 days I was there I was immersed into the lifestyle of the Province. I ate the local cuisine. I showered with a bucket and water from a well just as they do. I slept on a plywood bed in a cement house, just as my host family did. Rey Inganaro was kind enough to welcome me into his home and take care of me during my stay. The four days consisted of getting to know and hopefully encourage four local Pastors--Pastor T, Pastor Al, Pastor Alex, and Pastor Berg--and their congregations. Their attitude is inspiring. I look forward to be able to share everything in full detail with you when I return. Norco, these believers in Isabella long for your prayers.