Last week

Monday-Thomas was sick in bed all day. Alexie came down with a fever so was unable to join me for the prayer walk.

Tuesday-Family field trip to the Bontoc Museum

Wednesday-Ministry at a local elementary school, many noisy children in small space but the puppets are always a hit

Thursday-went to minister to a special education class, songs, puppets and play including Mot and the ever popular balloon animals. 4 teachers, 30 students with various disabilities but few resources, not even basic school supplies like paper and pencils.

In the afternoon, Thomas and I visited the pediatric ward of Bontoc’s only hospital. Conditions are shockingly poor. Dirty and run-down, with a strong smell of urine but we were able to bring some smiles to the place through our prayers, songs, Mot and balloon animals.

Friday-All of the girls were off with either a team member or Filipino students, so we decided to explore the other side of town. Wandering through the village we were invited to see the weaver. She begins weaving about 6 a.m. each day. It takes her a month to weave 14 yards of cloth which she sells for 250P/yd (about $5). Traditionally girls begin weaving the narrow edge of the tapis at age 8, then progress to the larger parts of the skirt. They design their own patterns. Now that girls go to school, not many are learning the art. Happy they have a chance for formal education but wish they would continue the artistry of their mothers and grandmothers.

Thomas went back to the jail. Adriana spoke regarding peace. Then the 2 of them joined us at the hospital. They went to Peds while I went to visit the new mothers. One of the babies was 2 months premature. Little Ashley does not have the advantages of all the PICU back home but we are trusting in the Great Physician.

Fun Night with the youth, some games, music and dancing, and food. You know typical youth group stuff.