Melissa Pound: I believe that God has opened my eyes to see that there is more to life then the average day at home. We have been able to minister to over 1500 people. Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ which stengtheneth me.” has really helped me during our work part of the mission trip. It pushes me up the hill, one step closer to finishing our project. It made me realize that pain is only temporary. God willing, many people will be able to benefit from the prayer center.
Colton Kostner: This summer has made me more aware of the people around me and their living circumstances as I go home to my air conditioned house, TV and internet. There are still people who don’t have that here in the Philippines who will probably be like that for the rest of their lives…and they are happy without it.
Hannah Sessink: Teen Missions has helped me tremendously in my walk with God. Before this summer, I wasn’t very close to God and was a typical teenage Christian. Now Teen Missions has shown me through devos, memory verses, and the classes and group discussions how to be a real Christian and walk in the same pace as God. So slowly I am making adjustments in my life and getting in the same pace as God.
Victoria Blackman: I have learned so much since coming to TMI. I’m used to being in control of my life, deciding what I’m going to do and when I’m going to do it. I quickly learned at Boot Camp that you don’t really have choices. You have to trust God and lean on Him more than ever before. I’ve grown so much spiritually because of this. I’m so thankful for all this trip has taught me about truly surrendering control of your life to God.
Caleb Portanova: Being on this trip has already taught me many thins. One of these things is that being away from home and comforts of my home really helps me to realize how good we have it and it helped me to understand how these people live in their country.
Courtney Franco: So as far as learning new things, I’ve really been pushing myself to work hard even when I felt like falling down the hill we had to climb every day. The Lord has pushed me to do more than I ever have, so yea. I can’t wait to go home and set new goals for God’s plan for me.
Sam Everson: Ever since I came to the Philippines, I learned how to stick it out with God’s help and couldn’t really trust my own strength. I learned a lot about having patience with people on the job, but I’m glad I’m coming home to try out my new techniques like not trusting on my own strength, but on God’s and having more patience with people,
Jack Valkema: During my stay at the TMI base in the Philippines, I’ve learned that it’s better to rejoice in the Lord at 4:30 in the morning when we wake up than to drag your feet and complain. There is no point in having a bad attitude all day when we have so much to be happy about. Waking up every morning, knowing that you have a loving Savior, should put a smile on anybody’s face, no matter how early in the morning it is! Phil. 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always.
Wynter Hilbun: While I’ve been in the Philippines, God has taught me that I am to be content in all things no matter what the situation is. Through this entire month, God has really shown me all I have to be thankful for, but even if I do not have these things, He will always supply my needs.
Adam Smouse: Four score and about a month ago…I have traveled from Orlando to LAX in California. We went to In ‘n’ Out Burger…It was a blessing, good food, but this was just the beginning. God changed me through the things at home. I took advantage of my belongings. I also in Boot Camp was changed and cleansed spiritually after hearing Josiah’s message and I rededicated my life to Jesus Christ. After I was in the Philippines I was blessed by the joy on the street children’s faces and their love for God. Also I was humbled by the poverty and the work we are doing.
Isa, we are praying and so proud of the way you have been a wittness. Can’t wait to see you soon. Know that the Matias family is parying for you and the church. Love Papi!!
Hi! To all of the team! So proud of all of you and your hard work! God is so good and what a wonderful testimony your team will carry! Matthew, I miss you and cannot wait to see your smiling face!! God Bless you!!
May God continue to bless the Philippines team!
Safe travels home!
Aunt Terri
Hello to Adam Smouse and his team. I am so proud of you Adam! May God continue to bless you and the team. I know that He is using you all in mighty ways.
Safe travels home!
Aunt T.