Update from Paty in the Philippines

Here is a report from our missionary in the Philippines, Paty. The original document is in Spanish; I'm posting a picture of it, but I'm also posting the translation here below.

Greetings to my dear brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s an honor for me to share some of what I have been doing this month in Cagayan de Oro, Philippines, but before I do, I would like to thank you again for your prayer and financial support that you have been giving me since my arrival here. God bless you and all that you do, and know that you are also in my prayers.

On Sept. 24 I completed my first month here. During this time I have been learning the language and culture of this place, as well as helping in the local church, visiting and praying house-to-house. This month, we have also started a feeding program for children who live in economically-disadvantaged areas, and it has been a beautiful experience being able to share the word of God with them. In our most recent community visit, I spoke to the children a little in their own dialect and taught them a song. I can’t describe the looks on the faces of the children and their mothers when they heard me speaking their language; they were very happy. During these weeks I have also visited different churches and shared my testimony, as well as a short sermon. A short while ago I had the chance to travel to another city and meet the pastors who will be accompanying us on our next evangelization trip. On the return trip I met some Muslim young people and we have been in contact since then. I know that God will use this as a way for me to share his Word with them.

Last week I had to apply for a visa extension and was only able to receive 2 extra months, but I was told that the next time I apply I will receive 6 months. I’m very excited because next week we will be visiting some remote mountain villages and sharing the Gospel. We will have to walk for more than 5 km (3 miles) to reach these villages, as cars and horses can’t pass through these areas, but I know that God will give me strength as we make the climb.

This is just a little of what I have been doing, and without a doubt God has been very good to me. Here in the Philippines he has given me a family who takes care of me, and I also have my family back home, all of you who have helped and continue to help me on this mission.