Surprised on Samal Island

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Surprised on Samal Island

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Last month looked a little different for our family. Teisa and Eden traveled to Laos and Cambodia for 10 days of mentoring visits and ministry. Upon returning, the whole family set off for a week on Samal Island (the southern part of the Philippines). Part of that week was spent partnering with an incredible ministry called Hope for All Children, which provides a Christ-centered home of healing and restoration for girls rescued from trafficking.

We shared a Sunday morning, prayed with those who responded, and spent our days in simple, meaningful ways: playing volleyball, hiking, organizing art supplies, and gathering around the table for meals. Honestly, those table conversations were some of our favorite moments.

One young girl in particular left a deep impression on our hearts. Her body carries visible scars- burn marks and painful reminders of what she has endured. We only had small windows of time to sit with her and pray, but what moved us most was witnessing the staff love her so faithfully and tenderly. It was a quiet, powerful picture of healing and wholeness in process.

In many ways, being there brought back memories from our years in Africa- the deep joy, but also the weight of brokenness in this fallen world. We are so grateful for the healthier rhythms of life/ministry God has given us in the Philippines. This season feels both grounding and stretching, and this humble, faith-filled community inspired us deeply.

We also had a few days of rest at a nearby resort*, which was beautiful and fun- but truthfully, after a couple days, our whole family found ourselves wanting to go back one last afternoon before leaving…so we did. And our girls have their hearts set on returning soon… We’re deeply grateful for you. Experiences like these- filled with ministry, connection, and meaningful rest- are made possible because of your faithful partnership. Thank you for joining us in what God is doing, not only through our family but impacting nations for His glory!

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