Wherever they go, Filipinos carry a strong sense of identity—family, culture and belonging. And those who follow Jesus carry an even more fixed identity as ambassadors of Christ.
In this edition of Billions, read how the gospel seeds planted in the Philippines bear fruit both at home and abroad.
DIRECTIONS
The Philippines: a rich tapestry of many layers
Often regarded as a “Christian nation,” the Philippines is actually a complex spiritual landscape marked by significant needs and challenges, observes Paul, OMF Australia National Director.
PHILIPPINES FEATURES
“Kain na!”
OMF Philippines Guest Home Manager Nicole reflects on this common Filipino phrase, and how it reveals aspects of Philippine culture, geography and identity.
How to start a Bible school
Co-founder of Koinonia Theological Seminary KTS) Philipp shares how the Lord led him to start the first interdenominational postgraduate Bible college in Mindanao.
Equipping the growing church of Mindanao
Wilson, Jill and Hefin talk KTS—why theological training is essential for mission, what makes KTS different, and how you can get involved.
Then and now: church plants in the Philippines
After 36 years of ministry in the Philippines, Andy outlines the ways you can pray specifically for church plants as they baptize new Christians and seek to bless their communities.
Training the next generation
Peema, Andy and Iljo are involved in training the next generation of Filipino pastors and missionaries. What does this look like, and what are churches wanting to learn?
A tale of two Philippine pastors
Pastors Andy and Eva tell their stories: how they came to faith, how they started serving, and how you might pray for their ministries and communities.
Fiercely living the gospel
Filipino pastor Ricardo loves the Waray Waray of the southern Philippines, a people “fierce in doing the work of God.” He shares what it takes to persevere here in ministry.
Tuning in to the power of Christ
Real success in ministry may not be what we first think. OMF New Zealand missionaries Matt and Cristelle live among the Waray Waray, loving the people and pointing them to the Bible.
Student ministry among the Waray Waray
Mirjam has been learning language, a new worldview and new culture—while letting go of some of her own—and seeing the joy of students coming to faith in Christ.
Mustard seed among the Manobo
Where are they now? OMF alumni Liz shares the long-term impact of high school and university scholarships for students in rural and poor areas of the Philippines.
Growing up between worlds: life at and after Faith Academy
What is life really like for a student at an international Christian school? Faith Academy alumni and OMF Australia creatives team member Enzo just might surprise you…
The gaps we’re leaving behind
Returning to Australia, Hefin and Janet share how much more there is to do in the Philippines—from theological education and media to serving among rural and Muslim communities.
SERVE ASIA
All I have is not mine
On a short-term media mission trip to the Philippines, Melissa discovers what the Philippines’ various missionaries all have in common, and that all that we have is from God.
Going into battle in Japan
Andrew and Julie share how the Lord showed them that prayer really matters—that’s why the Japanese church prays so much!—and how you can pray for Japan.
Wounded and praying across Japan
Spiritual warfare started even before Suki got to Japan—and yet, through her whole short-term mission trip, she experienced God’s faithfulness, provision and encouragement.
NATIONAL CONFERENCE
ADHD, finance and mission
“We may not have a plan, God always has a plan,” OMF Australia Finance Manager Edwin shares in this Q&A. “All we need is a heart to offer to serve God.”
Stretching into East Asia’s Skylands
This April, Kirk and Lynn* will be visiting Sydney for national conference after over 30 years of ministry. They share their journey so far and top tips on preparing for mission.
TO GLORY
The life and ministry of Shirley June Carmichael
Shirley sought to bring the message of Jesus to the Malay people of South Thailand, the vast majority of whom were Muslim. We thank the Lord for her “beautiful feet.” (Isaiah 52:7)
ANNIVERSARY
The great adventure: 20 years in Japan
After 20 years in ministry with OMF in Japan, Steve and Saeko share the biggest lessons God has taught them, and the joys of seeing His faithfulness.
“The best thing possible”: 20 years with OMF
Greg met missionaries in Japan while on holiday, and decided to be one of them. Shireen met Greg while he was on home assignment from mission in Japan. And the rest is history…
DEPARTURES
Twists and turns to Taiwan
John and Pam’s journey towards long-term mission has been shaped by God’s grace through many unexpected turns.
TIPS
The deadly peril of second best
Thinking of becoming a missionary? Former OMF Queensland State Ministry Leader Nic reveals the top 5 questions to ask yourself.
EDITORIAL
Ambassadors across borders: the global reach of Filipino faith
About eight million Filipinos live outside the country. How you might equip the diaspora communities around you? asks Scott, OMF Australia Communications Lead.
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