Week One Complete

My oh my how time flies; I have been in the Philippines for 7 days now. Faith Academy orientation started on Friday and I have been able to get to know some of my colleagues; and let me tell you, I am blessed! I am working with a group of such supportive, understanding, passionate, and fun people!

I walked in to my classroom yesterday after many meetings to find my desks all arranged and my classroom library completely organized. My mentor teacher (A wonderful South African lady) had slipped in to my room to surprise me and take a load off my shoulders. This was well timed because orientation, classroom preparations, and the new curriculum were beginning to overwhelm me. My department administration are also so helpful and are willing to help in anyway they can. I can’t think of anywhere better to begin teaching... and the kids aren't even here yet!

I have also been really excited to hear of the ministry opportunities around. There are many orphanages to get involved in, soup kitchens for underprivileged kids, ministry directed at squatter children, and many more. It is going to be difficult to decide what to jump in to! I can't wait to start.

So many prayers have been answered - I have two fantastic roommates who have like hearts and minds, a great group of teachers to work with, a phenomenal missionary team to be a part of, friends to run with, and most of all, a God that made the seemingly impossible possible by getting me out here. He is so good and it is awesome to serve Him and to be here in Manila.

I'm here, I'm here!

I arrived in the Philippines just over 24 hours ago after receiving a very heart-warming welcome by the OC missionaries in Manila. They have been so kind and hospitable. These families have connected me with a few of their local friends and colleges to teach me some Tagalog phrases and to take me on to the streets to practice it. It has been so fun and the people here are so friendly! They also had me catch a ride back from the bank in a 'tricycle' (a compartment attached to the side of a motorbike) with a Filipino friend. I am very excited to keep learning more about the culture and to attend a Filipino church on Sunday. Tomorrow I begin orientation at Faith Academy.