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This ministry
is headed up by Pam and Martin Scott (POC boys' house parents).
After a short
time of being in the Philippines, Pam and Martin felt called
to reach out to the tribal communities. After much prayer, they
felt God leading them to the Aeta Tribe in Canaynayan.
In order to reach
out to the nomadic tribes, initially it is necessary to gain
their trust. They therefore spent time establishing relationships
with the people by giving medical assistance and helping with
hospital visits. They then began livelihood projects such as
sewing lessons and instruction in basic carpentry.
Pam and Martin
realised that a lot of the diseases they encountered were due
to lack of sanitation and a clean water supply. In response
to this need, Martin led a team of Aetas in building latrines.
They also prayed as to where to dig a well. It was important
to find the right place as there was no access for machinery,
so all the digging had to be done by hand. After digging 37
feet, the Aetas grew weary and disillusioned. Coming from a
background of witchcraft, the Aetas decided to offer a sacrifice
of chickens. Martin explained to them that this would be an
abomination to God, and suggested that they pray for the Lord
to provide the water supply. When they returned to the site,
water was already welling up.
Martin and the
team installed a pipe, a hand pump, and also a header tank which
provides water to the nipa huts. This has made a vast difference
to the Aeta's quality of life - obviously reducing disease.
Though Canaynayan
is difficult to reach and almost impossible during the rainy
season, the team shows great commitment and determination despite
this, and the church has been built and established.
From this outreach,
POC has also been able to give the Aeta children the opportunity
of living in the children's home whilst receiving education
at the POC Christian Academy.
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