It was an early start as are most events that are part of Hope for the Island. We arrived at a local village by 7:30. It was a rainy day but our Hope team showed no signs of the dreariness that surrounded us. Derek and Jenn dropped us off and went to the boat dock to pick up the medical team arriving from another island. They did not like to ride boats and this weather would create large waves that would rock the boat they were arriving on from Surigao City. The next day would be an early morning repeat in Burgos, the neighboring village of Hope for the Island. Over a two day period 505 men, women and children were blessed with a consultation and medicine if needed.
A weary but ready team of volunteers with medical supplies arrived. Hundreds of villagers lined up early ready to be seen by a doctor. They were processed slowly in a tedious unorganized manner that included taking their blood pressure, weight (on a dated and rusted apparatus) and their temperature, which was written on their hand, only to disappear after hours in the humid environment. At times it was hard to hear the person next to you as the rain pounded down on the tin roof of the weathered and dilapidated gym.
This opportunity was significant as most would not seek help for an illness because they would not have the money to travel to see the doctor or for an examination or medicine.
As I watched the long lines move slowly throughout the long day I observed something. At first glance the anxiety could be read on the faces of those waiting. As they neared the doctor they had lined up for, something seemed to change in their demeanor. They realized they were going to get care. Not unlike us when we are sick or suspect something is not right with our body, we soon become relieved when we finally see our doctor and know where we stand. They went away some even without any medicine with a sense of relief and joy. They had been blessed! Mothers stroked their children, now at peace that all would be okay. Some did not receive good news and were directed to Surigao City for further tests or treatment. This team of three doctors and health care individuals put in two full days before returning by boat to their jobs. We are so grateful!
Kids Ministry
As junior staff on the Hope team rise up and mature, their confidence level increases as they see young ones come to Jesus. Older children are also mentored in group situations. Leading someone to a saving faith in Jesus renews their own commitment and excitement. Young children in one of our neighboring villages were warned by unnamed religious leaders that if they continue to attend our Kid’s Ministry they would be charged 5 pesos each. This can be a significant amount of money in the Philippines, never mind for a child. !! Although some have backed away out of fear, it seemed to firm up the commitment of others. It helps when the family is supportive of their children attending. We have mothers who help cook the healthy meal we provide during ministry times.
We see children becoming aware of the Bible and what it says to them as individuals. As is the case all over the world, a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and examination of the Scriptures comes to a point where daily choices should be filtered through God’s Word. It is vital to help these children apply the Bible to their personal situations. As trust is gained and hearts are opened, little ones tearfully share hurts and struggles. Little ones here face so much at a very young age.
Hope for the Island Learning Centre
It is a huge challenge here to integrate and teach structure to three and four year old children. Language is an especially difficult subject. Teachers are often challenged understanding some students even though they speak the same dialect.
It is our passion to help these precious little ones whom God has entrusted us with. We want them to understand that they are loved by God. Many already need emotional healing at a young age. Poverty and disease permeates every aspect of life, affecting the young and old alike. They are often raised by frail grandparents because of absent parents.
