March Philippines Mission Report No.3

On Thursday afternoon, we visited a woman’s prison and held an event.  In the hour we were given, we sang songs, played games, and gave a message.

This is the entrance to the prison.

When entering into the prison you can see the guards living quarters.  The guards are also former convicts and when released are given an opportunity to work at the prison.

The prisoners in the prison are given freedom to walk around in the quarters and work various jobs. 

When we did games with the prisoners we had a lot of fun.  It was a simple rock-scissors-paper and multiple choice game, but it seem that they enjoyed playing.  When we also sang the song “Come to Me” many of the prisoners were in tears.  Our singer was also in tears while singing the song.  It was when the word of God touched the hearts of the prisoners.

When the pastor presented the salvation message, many of the prisoner opened their hearts and listened.

Finally, we passed out food and drinks and greeted them good bye.

Their wonderful smiles are unforgettable.

We took a picture outside of the prison.

We bought Coke in a plastic bag sold outside of the prison.  When buying drinks at a small Sari Sari Store, they give you your drink in a plastic bag.  It is very interesting!

*All the picture are on this blog with permission.

March Philippines Mission Report No. 2

We had to opportunity to present a few acts during our trip to the Philippines.  While we were still in Japan, we prepared a few songs, games, etc.

We put a lot of effort in practicing “No Surprise Exercise.”  We didn’t know if the people in the Philippines would enjoy it at that time, however it seems as if all the people enjoyed it.  We enjoyed dancing with everybody.

 We had plans on visiting a woman’s prison, so we prepared a song of encouragement.

We had a singer on our team who took part in our charity concert, so she sang the song for us.

The song is called “Come to Me”

It is a song based on Matthew 11:28-

Come to me you weary one 
And I will give you rest 
I will give you rest

For my yoke is easy 
And my burden is light 
Take me upon you 
I will give you rest

Come to me you troubled one 
An I will give you peace 
I will give you peace 

I will calm the waters
I will whisper peace, be still
Take me upon you
I will give you peace

Come to me 
Come to me 
Come to me 
I have been waiting for you here

Come to me you weakend one 
And I will give you joy 
I will give you joy

I will rise like eagles 
And my joy will be your strength
Take me upon you 
I will give you joy

March Philippines Mission Report No.1

On March 19^th to 26^th, we went to our second mission trip to the Philippines for this year. There were a few issues we had to face, however we were able to serve the people with joy.  This time, 5 people were part of the team.  The younger person of our team was a high-schooler and the oldest was in his 60s.  At the end, we were a tight knit group. 

I introduced the sites of the Philippines before, but here are a few picture to refresh.

In the Philippines, many people use motorized tricycles to get around.

It a ride you will not be able to experience in Japan, so please try when you visit the Philippines.  A ride would cost about 20cents per-person.

The day we got to the Philippines, we had a meal with the local team.  We had dinner at McDonald’s and they have rice and spaghetti!

Then, we visited our friend’s house in the poor part of town.

The kids gave us a warm welcome!