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Philippine Partnership News

The Philippine Partnership Committee of the Covenant Association, Michigan Conference United Church of Christ, is excited and energized as we plan for the direction our mission and ministry with the United Church of Christ Philippines (UCCP). For many years, people across the Michigan Conference have had the opportunity to travel to the Philippines, host visitors, and have heard and witnessed the many challenges and joys experienced by those in ministry in the Philippines. The exchanges arranged through our partnership continue to change lives. Exchanges allow participants to learn about the Philippine culture, experience and extend hospitality, create advocates for peace and justice in the Philippines and bring hope and healing to our brothers and sisters in the Philippines.
 
The committee met with Bishop Ebenezer Camino and Rev. Rose Camba during their visit last summer. We explored ways to engage in ministry together through opportunities for further education and advocacy. Our mission focus for the next three years is education and support of clergy and lay leaders.
 
We are committed to providing funding for Ms. Marielle Tiempo. Marielle has been selected by the College of Maasin and the UCCP to complete a Master’s Degree program in Early Childhood Education at Central Philippine University. Upon completion of the program, Ms. Tiempo will teach classes in Early Childhood Education at the College of Maasin and work to develop a program of study in early childhood development. 
 
This summer, the Philippine Partnership Committee is partnering with MCUCC, VISION and will bring Ms. Rezia Mae Minguito to Michigan as a mission interpreter to share her experience, culture, and story with campers throughout the summer at Camp Talahi’s outdoor ministry program. Ms. Minguito would be our guest for the summer and all transportation, lodging, and living expenses will be covered by our committee. On weekends, Rezia will be traveling to local churches and meeting with members to represent the UCCP.
 
Plans are underway to send a small group to the UCCP Church Workers Convocation in August 2008. Participants will have an opportunity to hear first hand the stories of human rights violations and faithful courage in the UCCP, as well as, an opportunity to travel to the Philippines to meet the people and worship in their churches.
 
In 2009, we have extended an invitation to UCCP representatives to attend General Synod in Grand Rapids. The Partnership committee will cover all travel, lodging, and meals for our guests. In 2010, representatives from Michigan will have an opportunity to travel to the Philippines to attend the General Assembly of the UCCP.
 
With a financial donation, you can join with others from the Michigan Conference who support this exciting ministry opportunity. 
 
v      With a $2000 scholarship over two years we can be a part of a beginning of a new program of study to the College of Maasin where hundreds of students will have the opportunity to learn about and use their knowledge of Early childhood development to make a difference in thousands of children’s lives in the Philippines.
 
v      A donation of $250 - $500 would make it possible to cover some of travel expenses to the Philippines for a traveler who otherwise would be prohibited by the expense.
 
 
v      Contributing to the Philippine Partnership $4,500 will bring 2 pastors from the Philippines to General Synod in Grand Rapids to share from their experience and to meet with UCC members across the nation.
 
By joining our resources together we can make a difference in the world! Thank you for considering a financial donation and for your prayers for this ministry and for the church workers in the Philippines.
 
If you would like further information, or would like to meet with a Philippine Partnership Committee member to learn more about our mission and ministry please contact Bill Ingraham at (734) 971 6133 or Roger Pohl (734) 481 3155.