It was just this past Sunday afternoon. My sharing at Grace Bible Fellowship in Sexsmith went well. It was good to see long time friends and meet new ones. After the service, I was invited to lunch with two of the ladies at the church. We headed to Grand Prairie and were seated in the restaurant of the Stonebridge Inn.
Next to us was seated a very large family and I thought they might be Filipino but most of them were speaking English. One of the ladies with me pointed out a friend of her son's who was in the group.
Sometime during our meal, I did hear one or two Tagalog words coming from one of the ladies in the group next to us. We had opportunity to chat as they were leaving the restaurant and I did find out that they were from the Philippines. I explained that I was a missionary there. Then they left.
A while later we left. Outside the restaurant the family that was next to us was still saying goodbye and loading up vehicles. We had another opportunity to chat and the ladies explained to their husbands that I lived in the Philippines. One of the men was a bit dubious about my ability to speak Tagalog until I shared with them about the work of ACTION in the Philippines and what I was doing, in Tagalog. Well to say that his chin hit the ground would be an understatement.
It was a wonderful contact to make. Their families have been here for a while in Canada.
As I headed to my car, I noticed that the one man's chin was still on the ground; he was so pleased that I could speak the language.
'Be ready at any time to share about the hope that you have.'
Blessings,
Barbara
Praises: I am back in Kamloops for a few days! I arrived safely.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Music to my ears
I have been back in Canada for 2 months now. The list of wonderful experiences is now so long that I am glad that i have been keeping a journal. Longer still is the list of visits with friends, supporters, churches and so many different groups. This has been a good home assignment so far.
After these long weeks on the road, I am tired. I thought that my car would be less full at this moment that then when i began the road trip, but along the way there have been a variety of use book stores and pottery shops. I have added to my collection of reading material and mugs.
But of special note are the opportunities I have had to meet a number of Fillipinos here in Canada who are here on work contracts. The first was the young man I sat next to on the flight to Vancouver in May. He was coming to Canada to begin his first overseas contract with a company in Calgary. What a treat that as the wheels of the plane touched down at the Vancouver Airport, I was able to offer my hand and say, "Let me be the first to welcome you to Canada." We parted in the immigration area and I wonder if he was able to bring the sack of mangos into Canada that he had brought from the Philippines.
I have met others along the way and have had the opportunity to find out why they have come and what work they are doing here. In Prince George, the young woman attending church there, pregnant with her first baby. She was able to connect me with a shipper there and we have sent 3 boxes of material so far back to the Philippines.
Also in Prince George, three women who are here as caregivers, who were so tickled that I could speak Tagalog.
Up north, in Eaglesham, Alberta, I met two other Filipinas who are here as care givers. They shared with me that it was music to their ears to hear Tagalog after so many months of just hearing English. We chatted and laughed after church last Sunday. I shared with them as well that it was music to my ears to hear Tagalog after all these weeks in Canada.
The most recent was yesterday, while staying in at a motel in Grand Prairie, Alberta. As I was coming back to my room I heard voices in the hall. They were chatting among themselves and I was sure that I heard words in Tagalog! So I asked, "Are you Filipino?" All four stopped, all four faces broke into smiles, all four began to speak at once. We stood in the hallway and chatted for a few minutes. And for me it too was music to my ears.
I do have to admit...I miss being in the Philippines. And even if the language at times is difficult for me to understand or get my north american tongue around, it has become music to my ears when i hear it.
I am hoping that I have many more experiences this side of the world to share in Tagalog with those Filipinos who are working here, maybe to encourage them, maybe to share what I am doing in their home country, maybe to direct them to a closer relationship with Jesus.
Blessings,
Barbara
Post Prayers:
1. Safety on the last few days on the long road. I arrive in Kamloops early this week.
2. More opportunities to share about Mustard Seed.
3. For the financial and prayer support for the ministry.
After these long weeks on the road, I am tired. I thought that my car would be less full at this moment that then when i began the road trip, but along the way there have been a variety of use book stores and pottery shops. I have added to my collection of reading material and mugs.
But of special note are the opportunities I have had to meet a number of Fillipinos here in Canada who are here on work contracts. The first was the young man I sat next to on the flight to Vancouver in May. He was coming to Canada to begin his first overseas contract with a company in Calgary. What a treat that as the wheels of the plane touched down at the Vancouver Airport, I was able to offer my hand and say, "Let me be the first to welcome you to Canada." We parted in the immigration area and I wonder if he was able to bring the sack of mangos into Canada that he had brought from the Philippines.
I have met others along the way and have had the opportunity to find out why they have come and what work they are doing here. In Prince George, the young woman attending church there, pregnant with her first baby. She was able to connect me with a shipper there and we have sent 3 boxes of material so far back to the Philippines.
Also in Prince George, three women who are here as caregivers, who were so tickled that I could speak Tagalog.
Up north, in Eaglesham, Alberta, I met two other Filipinas who are here as care givers. They shared with me that it was music to their ears to hear Tagalog after so many months of just hearing English. We chatted and laughed after church last Sunday. I shared with them as well that it was music to my ears to hear Tagalog after all these weeks in Canada.
The most recent was yesterday, while staying in at a motel in Grand Prairie, Alberta. As I was coming back to my room I heard voices in the hall. They were chatting among themselves and I was sure that I heard words in Tagalog! So I asked, "Are you Filipino?" All four stopped, all four faces broke into smiles, all four began to speak at once. We stood in the hallway and chatted for a few minutes. And for me it too was music to my ears.
I do have to admit...I miss being in the Philippines. And even if the language at times is difficult for me to understand or get my north american tongue around, it has become music to my ears when i hear it.
I am hoping that I have many more experiences this side of the world to share in Tagalog with those Filipinos who are working here, maybe to encourage them, maybe to share what I am doing in their home country, maybe to direct them to a closer relationship with Jesus.
Blessings,
Barbara
Post Prayers:
1. Safety on the last few days on the long road. I arrive in Kamloops early this week.
2. More opportunities to share about Mustard Seed.
3. For the financial and prayer support for the ministry.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Shower of Blessings
It has been an amazing time home so far. Last April I wrote to many people and churches about collecting material for \mustard Seed, baby blankets and sleepers for the baby clinic, and personal hygiene items for a ministry to the men prisoners at the federal prison in Manila. So far, three large boxes have been sent back to the Philippines! Thank you so very much.
My car is again full and there is much more to collect before I head back. It may take three or more boxes.
Thank you to all who have contributed to the various ministries that will benefit from the gifts given.
Blessings,
Barbara
My car is again full and there is much more to collect before I head back. It may take three or more boxes.
Thank you to all who have contributed to the various ministries that will benefit from the gifts given.
Blessings,
Barbara
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
I am Finally Warm
I have been in Prince George now for almost two weeks. The weather has warmed up now moving from being quite chilly to yesterday's high of 37C. It has been great.
During my time here I have shared at two of churches in PG. It has been great renewing friendships and making new ones. It has also been a season of enjoying the changes in this northern city...new housing, new buildings, new businesses in old buildings.
I also had the opportunity of visiting the PG Railway and Forestry Museum located near Cottonwood Park. My husband and I and a group of railway fanatics were instrumental in beginning this wonderful site many years ago when we were still living in PG. The first piece of machinery to be restored was the old Russell Snow plow, found at the Northwood Pulp and Timber Company. Underneath some of the boards in the cab of the plow we wrote all our names and the date of completion before the last pieces of siding were put in place. What fun!
I remember the moving of the Penny Train station from the town site of Penny, BC, to the museum site in the middle of the night. The building was placed on a flat bed truck and moved ever so slowly to where it is located today.
The museum site today is wonderful. So many more railway pieces have been added as well as the Forestry Museum. The society has also been able to build a beautiful information center at the front of the property. It was fun to visit again.
This next week I will be sharing at a church in Smithers BC. It is also a city that has many memories for me.
Thank you for praying as I have been traveling. These recent weeks have not been as exciting as the first few weeks, with deer and murders. But they have been just as wonderful.
Blessings,
Barbara
During my time here I have shared at two of churches in PG. It has been great renewing friendships and making new ones. It has also been a season of enjoying the changes in this northern city...new housing, new buildings, new businesses in old buildings.
I also had the opportunity of visiting the PG Railway and Forestry Museum located near Cottonwood Park. My husband and I and a group of railway fanatics were instrumental in beginning this wonderful site many years ago when we were still living in PG. The first piece of machinery to be restored was the old Russell Snow plow, found at the Northwood Pulp and Timber Company. Underneath some of the boards in the cab of the plow we wrote all our names and the date of completion before the last pieces of siding were put in place. What fun!
I remember the moving of the Penny Train station from the town site of Penny, BC, to the museum site in the middle of the night. The building was placed on a flat bed truck and moved ever so slowly to where it is located today.
The museum site today is wonderful. So many more railway pieces have been added as well as the Forestry Museum. The society has also been able to build a beautiful information center at the front of the property. It was fun to visit again.
This next week I will be sharing at a church in Smithers BC. It is also a city that has many memories for me.
Thank you for praying as I have been traveling. These recent weeks have not been as exciting as the first few weeks, with deer and murders. But they have been just as wonderful.
Blessings,
Barbara
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
I'm Really Cold
It is now Tuesday. I have been back in my old home town for four days. And I have been having a wonderful time.
Sunday I was sharing at my first church here in Prince George. I was wonderful to see long time friends and meet new ones, especially the two young people who came to inquire about serving over seas. My heart sang!
And being able to sing again in the church sanctuary where I sang so many years ago. What a blessing.
I was introduced to a local painter not long after my arrival here and on Sunday we shared conversation over lunch. My friend and I had opportunity to look at many of her works. They are quite wonderful. God has given her an amazing talent and she is using it to honour God.
But all the while here, I have been cold. I am glad that I brought with me a long sleeved sweater and a jacket. Both have been put to good use. It has been 89F in Manila this past week. How I wish it were the same here.
O well, I am content in all things. 1 Tim 6. I am content in the cool weather! Amen!
Blessings.....
Sunday I was sharing at my first church here in Prince George. I was wonderful to see long time friends and meet new ones, especially the two young people who came to inquire about serving over seas. My heart sang!
And being able to sing again in the church sanctuary where I sang so many years ago. What a blessing.
I was introduced to a local painter not long after my arrival here and on Sunday we shared conversation over lunch. My friend and I had opportunity to look at many of her works. They are quite wonderful. God has given her an amazing talent and she is using it to honour God.
But all the while here, I have been cold. I am glad that I brought with me a long sleeved sweater and a jacket. Both have been put to good use. It has been 89F in Manila this past week. How I wish it were the same here.
O well, I am content in all things. 1 Tim 6. I am content in the cool weather! Amen!
Blessings.....
Friday, June 20, 2008
Back Home Again
I am now in Prince George, BC. My first Canadian home after immigrating to the country in 1974. I moved away from PG to Kamloops, BC in 1989.
It was here that I taught special needs and elementary classes.
It was here that I was a member of a musical group called Spinning Wheel.
It was here that I was involved in the local live theatre group.
It was here that I met and married Peter.
It was here that I lost a baby.
It was here that I came to know the Saviour, Jesus.
With all these memories and more flooding through my brain yesterday afternoon, I arrived in the city known as the hub of the north.
It has always been difficult for me to return here to the city. Almost every corner of the city holds a memory. Both wonderful and not so wonderful. It is the same this time too.
The wonderful include:
14 1/2 years of teaching
Being involved with the singing group and meeting my friend and singing partner of many years, Errol.
The long list of friends.
Learing to cross country ski, show shoe and build snowmen.
Being on stage in local productions at the theatre.
Our fun wedding.
Coming to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and growing with the family at the local church.
The not so wonderful, well, suffice it to say there were many.
They are all here. Both the good and the not so good.
This weekend I will be back with the family that taught me about Jesus. Who let me share with them the songs I wrote on Sundays. Who helped me grow in my faith with the loving Father. Who cried with me and loved me through the tough times.
There have been three pastors since I was last here and many of the people I knew here have left, and many new members have come. But the character of the church remains the same. A love for God, a prayerful heart and a willingness to share with others. Not a bad foundation to have in one's walk with the Lord. To these people here in Prince George I say thank you.
In three weeks I will travel further north to Dawson Creek, Goodlow, and Hudson's Hope, BC. Then in to Alberta to Fairview, Eaglesham, Sexsmith, and Grand Prairie. I don't think that I have been in the Peace River area before when it is summer time. I am looking forward to seeing the fields in their summer green and the trees along the river in all their summer splendor.
Please pray for good meetings in each of the churches that I will visit and good times with friends and supporters I wll see along the way.
Blessings,
Barbara
Post Prayers:
1. journey mercies as i travel the highways
2. good weather. so far the roads have been very good.
3. that the finances for Mustard Seed will be met.
4. good results from tests i had at the doctor's office this past week.
It was here that I taught special needs and elementary classes.
It was here that I was a member of a musical group called Spinning Wheel.
It was here that I was involved in the local live theatre group.
It was here that I met and married Peter.
It was here that I lost a baby.
It was here that I came to know the Saviour, Jesus.
With all these memories and more flooding through my brain yesterday afternoon, I arrived in the city known as the hub of the north.
It has always been difficult for me to return here to the city. Almost every corner of the city holds a memory. Both wonderful and not so wonderful. It is the same this time too.
The wonderful include:
14 1/2 years of teaching
Being involved with the singing group and meeting my friend and singing partner of many years, Errol.
The long list of friends.
Learing to cross country ski, show shoe and build snowmen.
Being on stage in local productions at the theatre.
Our fun wedding.
Coming to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and growing with the family at the local church.
The not so wonderful, well, suffice it to say there were many.
They are all here. Both the good and the not so good.
This weekend I will be back with the family that taught me about Jesus. Who let me share with them the songs I wrote on Sundays. Who helped me grow in my faith with the loving Father. Who cried with me and loved me through the tough times.
There have been three pastors since I was last here and many of the people I knew here have left, and many new members have come. But the character of the church remains the same. A love for God, a prayerful heart and a willingness to share with others. Not a bad foundation to have in one's walk with the Lord. To these people here in Prince George I say thank you.
In three weeks I will travel further north to Dawson Creek, Goodlow, and Hudson's Hope, BC. Then in to Alberta to Fairview, Eaglesham, Sexsmith, and Grand Prairie. I don't think that I have been in the Peace River area before when it is summer time. I am looking forward to seeing the fields in their summer green and the trees along the river in all their summer splendor.
Please pray for good meetings in each of the churches that I will visit and good times with friends and supporters I wll see along the way.
Blessings,
Barbara
Post Prayers:
1. journey mercies as i travel the highways
2. good weather. so far the roads have been very good.
3. that the finances for Mustard Seed will be met.
4. good results from tests i had at the doctor's office this past week.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Back in BC
Well, I'm back in BC. Last week I traveled to Calgary and surrounding area, visiting with friends, supporters and the staff at the Canada ACTION office in Calgary.
Although the weather fluctuated between SNOW, rain and sun, and experiences were varied (like almost hitting a second deer near Trochu, AB, and staying in a hotel where a possible murder occurred), the time there was wonderful.
I was able to meet with the staff at the ACTION Canada office and share with them the ministry of Mustard Seed. ACTION's missionary Ron Homenuke was also at the office. He has been on furlough since April and it was great to hear what his home time has been like. In Red Deer I stayed with ACTION missionaries, Martin and Lorna Scholz. They also served in the Philippines. We were able to have long chats and catch up with the goings on in our lives and also shared a very cold saturday morning at the Farmer's Market in Red Deer.
While in Three Hills, I met with a bride to be and was filled in on the details of her wedding at the end of this August. I have known this young woman since she was two years old and it will be a joy for me to attend the wedding in a few weeks.
I'm home for just three days and then off to the northern parts of BC and Alberta. I know that it will be a great time seeing friends and visiting in churches. Please check the travel schedule listed on the right side of this blog. Come and see me when I am in your area!
Please continue to pray for journey mercies and for the ministry of Mustard Seed and its needed budget for Batch 4.
Blessings,
Barbara
Although the weather fluctuated between SNOW, rain and sun, and experiences were varied (like almost hitting a second deer near Trochu, AB, and staying in a hotel where a possible murder occurred), the time there was wonderful.
I was able to meet with the staff at the ACTION Canada office and share with them the ministry of Mustard Seed. ACTION's missionary Ron Homenuke was also at the office. He has been on furlough since April and it was great to hear what his home time has been like. In Red Deer I stayed with ACTION missionaries, Martin and Lorna Scholz. They also served in the Philippines. We were able to have long chats and catch up with the goings on in our lives and also shared a very cold saturday morning at the Farmer's Market in Red Deer.
While in Three Hills, I met with a bride to be and was filled in on the details of her wedding at the end of this August. I have known this young woman since she was two years old and it will be a joy for me to attend the wedding in a few weeks.
I'm home for just three days and then off to the northern parts of BC and Alberta. I know that it will be a great time seeing friends and visiting in churches. Please check the travel schedule listed on the right side of this blog. Come and see me when I am in your area!
Please continue to pray for journey mercies and for the ministry of Mustard Seed and its needed budget for Batch 4.
Blessings,
Barbara
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
It happened again!
I left for Calgary on Monday morning with cloudy skies in the Kamloops area. Most of the day the weather was on and off rain. In the Golden,BC area, there were many sections of road construction. This is very usual in this part of BC.
Something very exciting happened in Golden when I stopped for gas. One of the other travelers who was purchasing gasoline for his vehicle was wearing a sweatshirt made out of the same material that our students at Mustard Seed used in the classroom. It came from the sewing factory that supplies us with material! How about that!
I arrived in Canmore around 4:30 pm and began looking for a place to stay. The weather was pouring rain and I was hoping to stay at the motel at which I had stayed on my travels in the past. But there were no rooms available. Hmmm.
So I began to check other motels in the town. Full as well! I discovered later that there was a huge conference going on at Banff this week. Canmore is close to Banff and was being used for housing for the conference. I finally did find a place to stay.
Yesterday morning I headed into Calgary. The rain was pouring and also windy. Not far out of Canmore, the rain turned into snow. Snow!!! Big white wet flakes of the cold stuff!!
In the afternoon I spent time with friends in Red Deer, Alberta. This morning I met with the people at the ACTION office in Calgary. It was a wonderful time of sharing with the staff of ACTION about the ministry of Mustard Seed.
This weekend I head back to Kamloops. please pray for journey mercies for the trip.
Next week, I head to Northern BC!
Blessings,
Barbara
Something very exciting happened in Golden when I stopped for gas. One of the other travelers who was purchasing gasoline for his vehicle was wearing a sweatshirt made out of the same material that our students at Mustard Seed used in the classroom. It came from the sewing factory that supplies us with material! How about that!
I arrived in Canmore around 4:30 pm and began looking for a place to stay. The weather was pouring rain and I was hoping to stay at the motel at which I had stayed on my travels in the past. But there were no rooms available. Hmmm.
So I began to check other motels in the town. Full as well! I discovered later that there was a huge conference going on at Banff this week. Canmore is close to Banff and was being used for housing for the conference. I finally did find a place to stay.
Yesterday morning I headed into Calgary. The rain was pouring and also windy. Not far out of Canmore, the rain turned into snow. Snow!!! Big white wet flakes of the cold stuff!!
In the afternoon I spent time with friends in Red Deer, Alberta. This morning I met with the people at the ACTION office in Calgary. It was a wonderful time of sharing with the staff of ACTION about the ministry of Mustard Seed.
This weekend I head back to Kamloops. please pray for journey mercies for the trip.
Next week, I head to Northern BC!
Blessings,
Barbara
Monday, June 9, 2008
No...It can't be!
This morning, Monday, I packed up the Malibu and headed off towards Calgary. The weather has been on and off rain for the last week. Wet...I left this in the Philippines! Or so I thought.
Traveling the transCanada hwy went well. A stop in Salmon Arm for gas and a CR break, a stop in Revelstoke to purchase a drink, a stop in Golden for lunch. The weather was on and off rain as I climbed up into the Rocky Mountains. The mountains got higher and their tops got whiter. At Rogers Pass I stopped to take photos of the gorgous scenery. I do miss the peaks!
I climbed higher and the rain came more often. It was not too farther from the pass that I noticed specks in the air. Little, tiny, white specks in the air! Unbelieveable! They are little specks of snow! Not enough to stick and not enough to stay on the ground but enough to say, It's snow!!!!!
At 4:30 pm I arrived in Canmore. But I was discouraged soon enough. Most of the motels had already turned on the No Vacancy sign. After driving by 5 motels I did find one on the edge of town. It is where I am writing this.
Tomorrow, Red Deer. At least tomorrow night Iwill be with friends!
Traveling the transCanada hwy went well. A stop in Salmon Arm for gas and a CR break, a stop in Revelstoke to purchase a drink, a stop in Golden for lunch. The weather was on and off rain as I climbed up into the Rocky Mountains. The mountains got higher and their tops got whiter. At Rogers Pass I stopped to take photos of the gorgous scenery. I do miss the peaks!
I climbed higher and the rain came more often. It was not too farther from the pass that I noticed specks in the air. Little, tiny, white specks in the air! Unbelieveable! They are little specks of snow! Not enough to stick and not enough to stay on the ground but enough to say, It's snow!!!!!
At 4:30 pm I arrived in Canmore. But I was discouraged soon enough. Most of the motels had already turned on the No Vacancy sign. After driving by 5 motels I did find one on the edge of town. It is where I am writing this.
Tomorrow, Red Deer. At least tomorrow night Iwill be with friends!
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Tie A Knot, Say A Prayer...
This past week has been busy and wonderful. On Monday I joined the ladies from my home church in Kamloops for lunch at a local restaurant. On Friday morning, my friend, Mary, and I went to Salmon Arm, BC to visit the quilt show being held there. What gorgeous quilts were being displayed! I was able to purchase material for the next two quilts that I will make. Saturday morning I reconnected with a friend that I haven't seen for almost 9 years!
On Thursday morning I traveled to Merritt, BC and joined the quilting group that meets there each week. This group is different from other quilting groups that I have met. This group of women form a local chapter of the national group, Prayers and Squares. The purpose of the group is two fold. They make and give a quilt to someone who is going through a rough time - an illness, a surgery, a difficulty. But more importantly they pray for the person. The quilt is tied but the knots are left unfinished. On Sunday morning the quilt is brought to the church and placed on a table in the lobby. A letter is placed with the quilt stating who it is for, and what the prayer requests are for the person. People come, tie a knot and say a prayer. Each knot represents a prayer prayed for that person. What a wonderful ministry! The leader of the group shared that last year the group averaged making a one quilt each week. That's 52 quilts last year. That hundreds of prayers offered up for the 52 people who received the quilts. Amen and amen!
It is Sunday as I write this. I am off to bed soon, getting needed rest. Tomorrow morning I travel to Alberta to meet at the ACTION office and with friends and supporters in Red Deer, Three Hills, and Calgary. I know that it will be another busy week.
Post Prayers:
1) For safety as I travel this week.
2) That I will rest well tonight.
Thank you for your prayers!
On Thursday morning I traveled to Merritt, BC and joined the quilting group that meets there each week. This group is different from other quilting groups that I have met. This group of women form a local chapter of the national group, Prayers and Squares. The purpose of the group is two fold. They make and give a quilt to someone who is going through a rough time - an illness, a surgery, a difficulty. But more importantly they pray for the person. The quilt is tied but the knots are left unfinished. On Sunday morning the quilt is brought to the church and placed on a table in the lobby. A letter is placed with the quilt stating who it is for, and what the prayer requests are for the person. People come, tie a knot and say a prayer. Each knot represents a prayer prayed for that person. What a wonderful ministry! The leader of the group shared that last year the group averaged making a one quilt each week. That's 52 quilts last year. That hundreds of prayers offered up for the 52 people who received the quilts. Amen and amen!
It is Sunday as I write this. I am off to bed soon, getting needed rest. Tomorrow morning I travel to Alberta to meet at the ACTION office and with friends and supporters in Red Deer, Three Hills, and Calgary. I know that it will be another busy week.
Post Prayers:
1) For safety as I travel this week.
2) That I will rest well tonight.
Thank you for your prayers!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Well, now I KNOW that I'm back in Canada!
My few days back in Canada have been full already! Purchasing a vehicle, finding a laptop to carry with me, and opening a cell phone account. I have again all the technology I need to head off on my travels.
The joy so far has been the sharing i have done with friends and supporters. A former workmate, the missions committee from my church in Kamloops, the ladies from KEFC over lunch last Monday, and at an evening care group on Sunday. In just these few short days I have been encouraged to hear what God is doing in the lives of these people that I haven't visited with for two years - prayers answered, faith deepened and faith challenged. I now wear a wrist band to remind myself to pray for Payton and his fight against leukemia.
And I have been challenged as well in my own walk with the Lord. The trials that have brushed many lives over the last two years. And how God has been faithful in everyone of these situations.
As well as all the visits and reconnections made so far, I have finally, I think, come to realize that I am back in Canada. It all came together yesterday when the young male deer flashed into my sight and my lane on the highway as I traveled home. The brakes were activated and my breath gasped as I narrowly missed hitting him. As I finished my journey home, thanking God that the new vehicle I was driving wasnt damaged, I realized that I really was back home in Canada and not still in the Philippines.
As I drove I made my list -"You know you are back in Canada when.." Here are the ones I wrote yesterday.
1) You know you are back in Canada when the animal that runs in front of your vehicle is a deer and not a cow or goat.
2) ...when you realize that it is self-serve at the gas station and not full serve after sitting for 10 minutes.
3) ...when you realize that you haven't used the car horn yet. (Does the car even have one??)
4)...because it's not Jollibee on every corner but Tim Horton''s coffee.
I'm sure I will find other examples to add to the list as I settle in over the next weeks.
I will be sharing in Merritt, BC this Sunday and then travel East to Calgary this next week.
Thank you for praying.
Blessings,
Barbara
Post Praises:
1) That I didn't hit the deer that crossed in front of me. I was traveling 80km. It would have been a mess!
Post Prayers:
1) For safe travels as I begin this weekend
The joy so far has been the sharing i have done with friends and supporters. A former workmate, the missions committee from my church in Kamloops, the ladies from KEFC over lunch last Monday, and at an evening care group on Sunday. In just these few short days I have been encouraged to hear what God is doing in the lives of these people that I haven't visited with for two years - prayers answered, faith deepened and faith challenged. I now wear a wrist band to remind myself to pray for Payton and his fight against leukemia.
And I have been challenged as well in my own walk with the Lord. The trials that have brushed many lives over the last two years. And how God has been faithful in everyone of these situations.
As well as all the visits and reconnections made so far, I have finally, I think, come to realize that I am back in Canada. It all came together yesterday when the young male deer flashed into my sight and my lane on the highway as I traveled home. The brakes were activated and my breath gasped as I narrowly missed hitting him. As I finished my journey home, thanking God that the new vehicle I was driving wasnt damaged, I realized that I really was back home in Canada and not still in the Philippines.
As I drove I made my list -"You know you are back in Canada when.." Here are the ones I wrote yesterday.
1) You know you are back in Canada when the animal that runs in front of your vehicle is a deer and not a cow or goat.
2) ...when you realize that it is self-serve at the gas station and not full serve after sitting for 10 minutes.
3) ...when you realize that you haven't used the car horn yet. (Does the car even have one??)
4)...because it's not Jollibee on every corner but Tim Horton''s coffee.
I'm sure I will find other examples to add to the list as I settle in over the next weeks.
I will be sharing in Merritt, BC this Sunday and then travel East to Calgary this next week.
Thank you for praying.
Blessings,
Barbara
Post Praises:
1) That I didn't hit the deer that crossed in front of me. I was traveling 80km. It would have been a mess!
Post Prayers:
1) For safe travels as I begin this weekend
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Home, I'm Home!
Yes, i am home, back in Canada for a 4 month home assignment. The plane landed in Vancouver on May 22, in the early afternoon after a 12 hour flight from Manila. It was a good flight. My seat mate was a young man to Canada for his first contract as a worker in Calgary.
To fill in the weeks since the last post on this blog, we did graduate 6 students from the MS program on April 26. It was a lovely celebration, with praise and worship, a fashion show and the presentation of certificates. There were lots of tears and lots of joy.
So this group has flown and we have already begun preparing for the next group. Our recruitment will begin on September 30 of this year with a start date of January 19, 2009. I am surprised that we are actually excited about the next batch! With all of the challenges of this batch, I didn't think that we would want to do it again. But as we began to talk about annother batch we actually began to get excited about doing it all again.
Now I am on home assignment and this blog will change its focus somewhat for the next few months. I will continue to post Post Praises and Post Prayers as I travel around the provinces of BC and Alberta.
I do hope that I will be able to see many of the supporters and friends of the Mustard Seed program. My email address remains the same.
Blessings,
Barbara
Post Praises:
1. I was able, with the help of my friend Jim, to find and purchase a vehicle for my travels.
2. Also, a laptop was purchased for my travels.
Post Prayer:
1. That I will have the strength to finish the schedule that I have set up for the next 4 months.
To fill in the weeks since the last post on this blog, we did graduate 6 students from the MS program on April 26. It was a lovely celebration, with praise and worship, a fashion show and the presentation of certificates. There were lots of tears and lots of joy.
So this group has flown and we have already begun preparing for the next group. Our recruitment will begin on September 30 of this year with a start date of January 19, 2009. I am surprised that we are actually excited about the next batch! With all of the challenges of this batch, I didn't think that we would want to do it again. But as we began to talk about annother batch we actually began to get excited about doing it all again.
Now I am on home assignment and this blog will change its focus somewhat for the next few months. I will continue to post Post Praises and Post Prayers as I travel around the provinces of BC and Alberta.
I do hope that I will be able to see many of the supporters and friends of the Mustard Seed program. My email address remains the same.
Blessings,
Barbara
Post Praises:
1. I was able, with the help of my friend Jim, to find and purchase a vehicle for my travels.
2. Also, a laptop was purchased for my travels.
Post Prayer:
1. That I will have the strength to finish the schedule that I have set up for the next 4 months.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Yes, Yes, it's been a while...
When I was younger, people would make the comment, 'time goes by so quickly now that I'm older'. I didn't fully understand that until now. I'm older...and, yes, time does past more quickly.
Also, over the last two weeks of no posts on the blog, we have been working at finishing up a number of things with this group of students. We are only 3 1/2 weeks till their graduation. Lots to do, only a few days to do it all.
This term, number 4, our focus has been to help prepare the students for graduation. In all of the classes, we have been discussing what the students are planning to do after graduation. Also, the students have been given a number of specific things to do to find a job, if they have a time of trial or temptation, ministry suggestions. We want them to know EVERYTHING before we send them out in to the world. This of course is not possible, nor is it the best for them. The Lord will be with them and will be continuing to work in each of their lives. We pray that each of the young women will continue to grow in their walk with the Lord over the months and years after their time with us here at Mustard Seed.
So, what are some of their dreams? One would like to continue studying to become a fashion designer. Two are considering applying to Bible school. Others want to find work as a seamstress. One has already begun teaching an older woman in her community to read and write. She discovered her passion to teach and is trying it out. Our discipleship teacher is an elementary school teacher and will be coming along side of her to help our student grow in her skills. She may in the future go to teachers' training. Our students each have a number of dreams and it has been delightful to watch the Lord work with each of them.
Our grad is near.
Then begins our post mortem and also the tweaking process of our program so that the next batch will be even better.
Post Praises:
1) That we are very close to the end of this batch.
2) The joy of having watched these students grow in their walk with the Lord over the past 10 months.
Post Prayer Requests:
1) Graduation April 26: that all students will finish well
2) That those students who would like to work will find a job.
3) One of our students will have minor surgery next week to remove a small cyst on her leg that has become infected.
Thank you for your interest in our program!
Blessings!
Also, over the last two weeks of no posts on the blog, we have been working at finishing up a number of things with this group of students. We are only 3 1/2 weeks till their graduation. Lots to do, only a few days to do it all.
This term, number 4, our focus has been to help prepare the students for graduation. In all of the classes, we have been discussing what the students are planning to do after graduation. Also, the students have been given a number of specific things to do to find a job, if they have a time of trial or temptation, ministry suggestions. We want them to know EVERYTHING before we send them out in to the world. This of course is not possible, nor is it the best for them. The Lord will be with them and will be continuing to work in each of their lives. We pray that each of the young women will continue to grow in their walk with the Lord over the months and years after their time with us here at Mustard Seed.
So, what are some of their dreams? One would like to continue studying to become a fashion designer. Two are considering applying to Bible school. Others want to find work as a seamstress. One has already begun teaching an older woman in her community to read and write. She discovered her passion to teach and is trying it out. Our discipleship teacher is an elementary school teacher and will be coming along side of her to help our student grow in her skills. She may in the future go to teachers' training. Our students each have a number of dreams and it has been delightful to watch the Lord work with each of them.
Our grad is near.
Then begins our post mortem and also the tweaking process of our program so that the next batch will be even better.
Post Praises:
1) That we are very close to the end of this batch.
2) The joy of having watched these students grow in their walk with the Lord over the past 10 months.
Post Prayer Requests:
1) Graduation April 26: that all students will finish well
2) That those students who would like to work will find a job.
3) One of our students will have minor surgery next week to remove a small cyst on her leg that has become infected.
Thank you for your interest in our program!
Blessings!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Post Grad
With graduation just a few short weeks away, our students, all six of them, are beginning to think, 'after graduation, what will I do?' It is a huge step for them as, if they do look for work, it will be a first time for many. The first pay check, the first real world job, the first time one needs to get up Early to get to work, and lots of other firsts.
I teach the class, "After Grad, What?". As an assignment in class I ask the students to think about the next step, what do you want to do? The answers have been as varied as the girls...one is trying to decide between going to Bible school and getting a job as a seamstress. One definitely wants to work as a seamstress but not sure where. One would like to become a fashion designer and has been looking into further education. One is not sure yet, but 'something'. The other two are talking it over, bouncing ideas off of one another.
Each one then made a list of the steps needed to reach her goal.
For me, that each left our class not discouraged about the future was a blessing. Of course, we will monitor and help where we can with this next part of their journey.
Post Praise:
1) Next week will be our Field Conference, gathering together to have fun and fellowship with the missionaries of ACTION International.
2) Safe arrival of our guests for the International Council meetings.
Post Prayer:
1) Please pray for GG and her daughter who are both sick with bad colds and coughs. GG works in our workshop.
2) Please pray for our Field Conference.
3) Yesterday a text message was delivered and passed on to others that there was an syndicate working in our area; one that snatches children, kills them and puts the internal organs on the black market. It turned out to be a hoax but schools were asked to close early and parents come pick up the children. It was a time of confusion and fear. These type of people do operate here, but this time it wasn't true.
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
Mustard Seed
I teach the class, "After Grad, What?". As an assignment in class I ask the students to think about the next step, what do you want to do? The answers have been as varied as the girls...one is trying to decide between going to Bible school and getting a job as a seamstress. One definitely wants to work as a seamstress but not sure where. One would like to become a fashion designer and has been looking into further education. One is not sure yet, but 'something'. The other two are talking it over, bouncing ideas off of one another.
Each one then made a list of the steps needed to reach her goal.
For me, that each left our class not discouraged about the future was a blessing. Of course, we will monitor and help where we can with this next part of their journey.
Post Praise:
1) Next week will be our Field Conference, gathering together to have fun and fellowship with the missionaries of ACTION International.
2) Safe arrival of our guests for the International Council meetings.
Post Prayer:
1) Please pray for GG and her daughter who are both sick with bad colds and coughs. GG works in our workshop.
2) Please pray for our Field Conference.
3) Yesterday a text message was delivered and passed on to others that there was an syndicate working in our area; one that snatches children, kills them and puts the internal organs on the black market. It turned out to be a hoax but schools were asked to close early and parents come pick up the children. It was a time of confusion and fear. These type of people do operate here, but this time it wasn't true.
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
Mustard Seed
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Half Way There!
It is unbelieveable to think that we ended today the fifth week in our fourth term. Just five weeks to go and then it will be graduation.
We began back in June 2007 with 10 new students, this being our Batch 3. Over the course of the last 35 weeks, four have dropped out for various reasons. And now we are at six remaining.
Yesterday I watched the students work on making stuffed animals. They designed the patterns, they sewed the creation and stuffed them. It is amazing for me to think that 35 weeks ago all of this was new to them. They walked into the sewing classroom and faced 15 high speed industrial sewing machines for the first time. Now they are all pros on the machines.
Has it all been wonderful? No...there have been the struggles. Sewing a straight line, remembering the right size of seam allowance, how to put in a zipper. The joy for me came while looking at their creations and seeing all the practice, teaching, and encouraging come together.
So we will graduate six young women from the program.
It has been the same with their study of the Bible. Watching these young women dig and consider, discuss and grapple with the word of God over the last four terms has been a blessing for me. As with the sewing, it has not all come easy for them. Some dealt with issues from the past and emerged victorious. Some are still in the process of changing, as the word of God goes deeply into their hearts. But the climb continues to be upward! Amen.
What our graduates will be doing after April 26 will be the topic of the next post. They have been thinking and praying and have been putting together some very good plans! Until then...
Post Praises:
1) We have finished our fifth week in term 4.
Post Prayer Requests:
1) Graduation on April 26.
2) Some are still struggling with math weaknesses. Pray that these will get sorted out before they leave the program.
3) One student is still struggling with allergies.
4) Plans for the future. Please pray for God's guidence in this area for each of the six young women.
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
We began back in June 2007 with 10 new students, this being our Batch 3. Over the course of the last 35 weeks, four have dropped out for various reasons. And now we are at six remaining.
Yesterday I watched the students work on making stuffed animals. They designed the patterns, they sewed the creation and stuffed them. It is amazing for me to think that 35 weeks ago all of this was new to them. They walked into the sewing classroom and faced 15 high speed industrial sewing machines for the first time. Now they are all pros on the machines.
Has it all been wonderful? No...there have been the struggles. Sewing a straight line, remembering the right size of seam allowance, how to put in a zipper. The joy for me came while looking at their creations and seeing all the practice, teaching, and encouraging come together.
So we will graduate six young women from the program.
It has been the same with their study of the Bible. Watching these young women dig and consider, discuss and grapple with the word of God over the last four terms has been a blessing for me. As with the sewing, it has not all come easy for them. Some dealt with issues from the past and emerged victorious. Some are still in the process of changing, as the word of God goes deeply into their hearts. But the climb continues to be upward! Amen.
What our graduates will be doing after April 26 will be the topic of the next post. They have been thinking and praying and have been putting together some very good plans! Until then...
Post Praises:
1) We have finished our fifth week in term 4.
Post Prayer Requests:
1) Graduation on April 26.
2) Some are still struggling with math weaknesses. Pray that these will get sorted out before they leave the program.
3) One student is still struggling with allergies.
4) Plans for the future. Please pray for God's guidence in this area for each of the six young women.
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Dolls, Dolls, Dolls!
I am just back from visiting our sewing classroom. It is always amazing to me to see what new project our students are working on. Today, the sewing tables were full of doll bodies and clothing in various stages of completion. What a joy!
The students have learned to use industrial high speed sewing machines. We have both the single needle and overlocking or serger varieties in the classroom. I remember when they began to learn to work on these powerful machines. With no previous sewing instruction, the students were afraid at first. But now, when they enter the classroom, they are right to work. They have mastered these machines.
I haven't learned to use a sewing machine; I quilt by hand. It thrills me to watch these young women gaining confidence in using these machines. They are gaining skills to use in their homes or a work setting. What a blessing! THis is also why we do what we are doing. To see young women from poor backgrounds, learn a skill that will help bring income into their families where there hasn't been income or very little before.
The students are making 18" soft body dolls and outfits that go with them. As they work on the dresses they learn how to match colours, designs, etc. The project should be finished this week.
Post Praise:
1) The students are learning to serve God through what they are sewing. An earlier project, teddy bears, will be going to a Children's rescue home.
Post Prayer:
1) That over the remaining 7 weeks their skills will continue to grow and develop.
Blessings,
Barbara
The students have learned to use industrial high speed sewing machines. We have both the single needle and overlocking or serger varieties in the classroom. I remember when they began to learn to work on these powerful machines. With no previous sewing instruction, the students were afraid at first. But now, when they enter the classroom, they are right to work. They have mastered these machines.
I haven't learned to use a sewing machine; I quilt by hand. It thrills me to watch these young women gaining confidence in using these machines. They are gaining skills to use in their homes or a work setting. What a blessing! THis is also why we do what we are doing. To see young women from poor backgrounds, learn a skill that will help bring income into their families where there hasn't been income or very little before.
The students are making 18" soft body dolls and outfits that go with them. As they work on the dresses they learn how to match colours, designs, etc. The project should be finished this week.
Post Praise:
1) The students are learning to serve God through what they are sewing. An earlier project, teddy bears, will be going to a Children's rescue home.
Post Prayer:
1) That over the remaining 7 weeks their skills will continue to grow and develop.
Blessings,
Barbara
Monday, February 25, 2008
Where We Are Today...
Mustard Seed is very close to the end of Batch 3. This morning we began week 4 of term 4. We began this batch with 10 students, the number that we can take. Over the course of the last 33 weeks 4 of our students have left the program. Each leaving was difficult for us.
It has been a blessing to the staff to watch the girls grow in their life with the Lord and develop into accomplished seamstresses. We have been talking about what they will do after graduation and how to get to that place. Some of the girls want to further their study in sewing, one wanting to become a fashion designer. Some of the students want to go to Bible school. Some want to look for a job. I am hoping that some want to continue with us in our OJT training - On The Job. It will give them more experience but out in the real world.
Post Praises:
1) The students returned after a long weekend ready to get into classes again.
2) Last week a number of students were suffering from colds. There was only one student coughing this morning. They are better or almost completely well.
Post Prayers:
1) We have new visitors on campus with us. A family from Canada. Pray that their time with us will be good. That they will get a sense of what we do here.
2) Our International Council meetings will start March 10 and last a week. Pray that these meetings will go well.
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
It has been a blessing to the staff to watch the girls grow in their life with the Lord and develop into accomplished seamstresses. We have been talking about what they will do after graduation and how to get to that place. Some of the girls want to further their study in sewing, one wanting to become a fashion designer. Some of the students want to go to Bible school. Some want to look for a job. I am hoping that some want to continue with us in our OJT training - On The Job. It will give them more experience but out in the real world.
Post Praises:
1) The students returned after a long weekend ready to get into classes again.
2) Last week a number of students were suffering from colds. There was only one student coughing this morning. They are better or almost completely well.
Post Prayers:
1) We have new visitors on campus with us. A family from Canada. Pray that their time with us will be good. That they will get a sense of what we do here.
2) Our International Council meetings will start March 10 and last a week. Pray that these meetings will go well.
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Our Start...
Mustard Seed Discipleship Vocational Program began in 2002 with the donation of 15 sewing machines from a local Christian business man. His family owns three large factories located close to where we are situated.
At the time I was finishing up language school and seeking the God's direction for future ministry. When I learned of the donation, I knew that I had found my answer. Our mission already has two program for young men, also out of school youth. Working Hands Discipleship Vocational Program and Honest Hands Discipleship Home for former street boys. At the time, we did not have a program for young women. This was the opportunity to begin one.
I moved in 2002 to our campus and began the developing the plans for Mustard Seed. It began with the name, coming from the parable of the Mustard Seed found in Luke and Matthew. The mustard seed being the smallest of all seeds, will grow into a plant that will house the birds of the air and give shelter to the beasts of the field. Also, one who has faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. Our students, who would come with a young faith would grow in their faith while with us in the program. Their sewing skills, non existent at the beginning, would develop and grow into a marketable skill.
In 2002, our sewing instructor came on board and we hired our dorm mom. The recruiting process began to select students for our first 'batch'. We chose 4 young Christian women as our first students to be with us for seven months of training. We worked closely with their home churches, partnering in prayer and training. Our learning curve that first batch was very steep but we finished at the end of October 2003, graduating 4 students and watching them settle into their first jobs, sewing at one of the factories of our sponsor. We learned a lot, we had lots more to learn!
This post's praises:
1) The Honest Hands students today are taking their GED for elementary and highschool, after a year's literacy study. They have worked hard for this.
2) The rain has finally stopped! Summer must be on the way.
This post's prayers:
1) Mustard Seed students will be going through the material for True Love Waits, integrity and purity before marriage, in this week's classes. Pray that this information will get into the hearts of our students.
2) Preparation for graduation on April 26!
3) February 25 is the 22nd anniversary of the EDSA 1 People Power. Pray that all celebrations and demonstrations will remain calm during the remembrances.
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
At the time I was finishing up language school and seeking the God's direction for future ministry. When I learned of the donation, I knew that I had found my answer. Our mission already has two program for young men, also out of school youth. Working Hands Discipleship Vocational Program and Honest Hands Discipleship Home for former street boys. At the time, we did not have a program for young women. This was the opportunity to begin one.
I moved in 2002 to our campus and began the developing the plans for Mustard Seed. It began with the name, coming from the parable of the Mustard Seed found in Luke and Matthew. The mustard seed being the smallest of all seeds, will grow into a plant that will house the birds of the air and give shelter to the beasts of the field. Also, one who has faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. Our students, who would come with a young faith would grow in their faith while with us in the program. Their sewing skills, non existent at the beginning, would develop and grow into a marketable skill.
In 2002, our sewing instructor came on board and we hired our dorm mom. The recruiting process began to select students for our first 'batch'. We chose 4 young Christian women as our first students to be with us for seven months of training. We worked closely with their home churches, partnering in prayer and training. Our learning curve that first batch was very steep but we finished at the end of October 2003, graduating 4 students and watching them settle into their first jobs, sewing at one of the factories of our sponsor. We learned a lot, we had lots more to learn!
This post's praises:
1) The Honest Hands students today are taking their GED for elementary and highschool, after a year's literacy study. They have worked hard for this.
2) The rain has finally stopped! Summer must be on the way.
This post's prayers:
1) Mustard Seed students will be going through the material for True Love Waits, integrity and purity before marriage, in this week's classes. Pray that this information will get into the hearts of our students.
2) Preparation for graduation on April 26!
3) February 25 is the 22nd anniversary of the EDSA 1 People Power. Pray that all celebrations and demonstrations will remain calm during the remembrances.
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
Thursday, February 21, 2008
An Introduction...
Now that we have a blog up and running, I think an introduction is in order. This blog will be written about the ministry that I am involved with in the Philippines. Mustard Seed Discipleship Vocational Program is a ministry to out of school youth, aged 18 to 22 years of age. Our program, one of three on our campus, teaches sewing to young women who come from poor backgrounds. Some of our students are high school graduates but many are not. School for many families here can be a very expensive thing, even though elementary and high school education is free. After graduation from high school, children from poor families are not able to continue on in school for training for work. To work at the local fast food restaurants, two years in college is needed as a prerequisite.
Mustard Seed, and the other two discipleship vocational programs on our campus, desire to help out of school youth learn a marketable skill. Along with the livelihood training, our students are taught the Word of God.
Included with each posting will be Praises and Prayer Needs. Thank you in advance for keeping us in your prayers.
Praise: This weekend our discipleship teacher will be celebrating her 41st birthday. We celebrated with her this week at school, thanking God for her involvement in our program and praying for His wisdom and guidence over the next year.
Prayer: Mustard Seed's graduation for this batch of students will be celebrated on April 26. Please pray for the students as they finish up their 10 month studies with us and will be graduation. Pray also for their planning for after graduation.
Blessings!
Mustard Seed, and the other two discipleship vocational programs on our campus, desire to help out of school youth learn a marketable skill. Along with the livelihood training, our students are taught the Word of God.
Included with each posting will be Praises and Prayer Needs. Thank you in advance for keeping us in your prayers.
Praise: This weekend our discipleship teacher will be celebrating her 41st birthday. We celebrated with her this week at school, thanking God for her involvement in our program and praying for His wisdom and guidence over the next year.
Prayer: Mustard Seed's graduation for this batch of students will be celebrated on April 26. Please pray for the students as they finish up their 10 month studies with us and will be graduation. Pray also for their planning for after graduation.
Blessings!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
And so we begin...
February 20, 2008
Another step is made today into the world of high tech and the web. Last January, I purchased a new computer. I now have the photos from my digital camera on the computer. Now I step into the arena of blogging.
So, I hope that over the next months and maybe years to share with you about the organization of which I am a part, the ministry in which I work, and something about the staff and students that are with this ministry.
Hopefully as I post stories and experiences, you will begin to understand why I'm doing what I am doing.
Look for the next post soon!
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
Mustard Seed Discipleship Vocational Program
ACTION International, Philippines
Another step is made today into the world of high tech and the web. Last January, I purchased a new computer. I now have the photos from my digital camera on the computer. Now I step into the arena of blogging.
So, I hope that over the next months and maybe years to share with you about the organization of which I am a part, the ministry in which I work, and something about the staff and students that are with this ministry.
Hopefully as I post stories and experiences, you will begin to understand why I'm doing what I am doing.
Look for the next post soon!
Blessings,
Barbara Burchert
Mustard Seed Discipleship Vocational Program
ACTION International, Philippines
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