Forsaking All: Sibale

Sibale is an island just an hour & 1/2 boat ride from where we are staying. It is the most beautiful place you could ever imagine but yet there is much more going on than God's incredible creation. Two weeks ago when the rest of our American team was here. God allowed us to share with all of the schools on the island, most indicating a decision for Christ. Mom and I were invited back to the island to help local pastors Sonny, Jess, and Salve to encourage their churches and have a crusade within the community. We discovered that there is a German priest who has lived on the island for many years and supports the high schools by paying the students monthly bill of 50 pesos, which is just a little over $1.00. He also supports the college students there, which is 5,000 pesos a month. As a result of paying their school bill, they are forced to attend the catholic church and are not able to freely choose where and how to worship.

The local pastors told us - when they visit people and share God's Word with them that the people are touched and want to learn more but there is nothing they can do about it because of the stronghold of the catholic church.

While mom and I were at Sibale for the second time, I was able to attend the National High school, that all of us American girls had the opportunity to share with. Not only did they

remember everyone's names who spoke in their classroom: Summer, Sarah, Hannah,

Shelby, Stephanie, Emily, and myself they continued to ask more questions about us and our faith! Praise God for the work He is doing in their lives. Please continue to pray that the local people would not rely on the priest for financial support, but rely on a God who is more faithful and altogether the ultimate provider.