I recently returned from several weeks in the Philippines. This was my first trip back ‘home’ since I was adopted as an 11-month old child in 1972. I was afforded many rich experiences of the people, culture and their love for God. As a result of one church (The Harbor Church in Lomita, CA), I had the opportunity to see the fruit of so much labor over the past 35+ years. Over the course of the next few weeks I will highlight some of my experiences and stories of the people I met and things I learned. The goal is to take some of what I observed and experienced and find practical, everyday application.

One of the objectives of my trip was to make the best use of a short amount of time, to meet and establish bonds with new friends with the hope of returning with a team from my church in the future. Instrumental in making part of this possible was my uncle and aunt, Tom and Stanie Runyan and Pastor Bob Pruett (The Harbor Church) and their connection with Mel Go. The connection  began decades ago when Tom and Stanie met a troubled 15 year-old who was involved in drugs. Mel accepted Christ and shared his story with many of his friends. This resulted in the formation of a Chi Alpha group that opened the door to influence and spread of the gospel in the Philippines. As a result of their ministry, many pastors have accepted the call of ministry and churches have been planted. Today, Mel works with Chi Alpha, Shekinah Christian Ministries and Asia Theological Seminary. He has proven to be a valuable resource for national and local government in balancing the political and religious tension in the Philippines.

I am grateful for this new friendship and intrigued by our discussions about fund raising within the local church and how it is connected to leadership and community development. What stands out is his heart for the pastors and leaders of the churches he has helped plant. Throughout the Philippines, is a slowly emerging middle class. It is still by every definition (social, political and economical) a country of contrasts (rich versus poor), yet so many are able to do so much with so little. Unfortunately, for many of the churches established in the provincial areas the old maxim holds true – 20-percent of the people support 80-percent of the ministry budget. In a country with little middle class, there is little to no margin of error.

There are numerous models and strategies to non-profit fund raising and whether you financially support a missionary or invest in a local project, I believe they all boil down to answering one question – “What are you trying to accomplish and how will you spend my donation?” The cool thing about getting to know new friends is their ability to offer a fresh perspective to the familiar. For all the models and strategies we discussed, I am thankful that Mel’s response was along the lines of ’speak plainly, and find creative ways to do more with less.’ I can’t wait to speak with Mel again.

I’ve posted a short video with highlights from Manila, Makita, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga Del Sur, Pagadian, Rizal and Cebu on facebook.