Subic Bay, The Philippines :: Crew from Doulos Hope visit a marginalized community of mothers and their children.
Three teams from Doulos Hope recently had the opportunity to help people living in a landfill area in Subic Bay, alongside partner organisations, Project Life Subic and Mercy in Action.
During the time in port, crewmembers visited the community living at the landfill site each Thursday. They enjoyed a meal together provided by Project Life, while seeking to encourage the people through games, conversation, music and God’s Word. Project Life was particularly encouraged to have crew from newest ship Doulos Hope join them, as the organisation had previously partnered with former ship Doulos, receiving a donation of sewing machines in 2007.
Crewmember Sarah (Netherlands) said, “To see the programme participants smile while getting a book and teaching them some English words was really a blessing. Meanwhile seeing the work these organisations do was very special.”
Accompanying the crew, a midwife and social worker, who make regular visits to the community, helped ensure that all the mothers and children under two participating in the programme were receiving good care.
Midwife Marlene (Mercy in Action) said, “For me it was a different experience, personally hearing stories from you that really touched me and [to see] you are ready to dive into every ministry, regardless of the heat, or [other challenging factors]. You are willing to extend your hands.”
A highlight for Sarah however was seeing God’s hand in how the group were led to two pregnant women and a newborn baby that day. They needed care, but had not yet been found, because they were in a place where the midwives don't normally go. Sarah said, “I was reminded to always be happy with what you have and to see the good things in everything, because God is there, even in the struggles.”