To all our dear friends and supporters,

As the rest of the world starts to prepare for the holiday season, we all know that Young Life’s mission of reaching out to every kid does not stop. But just like any other human being, the staff of Young Life Philippines needs a good break every now and then.

Last week, they had one that was for the books!

Over a dozen YL staff members (along with some family and friends) had a much-needed retreat to the amazing city of Hong Kong. There, they went on thrilling cable car rides, had a magical day at Disneyland, and most importantly, spent a wonderful day with the amazing Hong Kong Young Life Team!

Not only were they able to see the sights and sounds of a megacity like Hong Kong, but they were also able to see first-hand the huge work that HK YL is currently doing there! James Tang, the country director of HK YL, even welcomed our team to one of their staff meetings! Seeing Young Life work in places outside the Philippines will always be a heartwarming and extra encouraging experience.

This was truly an unforgettable experience for our hard-working and passionate staff. In fact, here are some of their main takeaways from the trip:

“In the busy streets of Hong Kong, where we had to walk really fast, my friends, who I think of as family, were like my anchor. Even though my feet hurt from all the walking, knowing that I am with them while we have to figure out which way to go, just turned our trip into a fun and exciting journey. In the same way, having friends who help you when things get tough is like turning hard times into exciting adventures. I think that being with the right people who will support and encourage you, will make your journey better and more fun. It's hard, but you know you can do it, because you have them.”

- Dayan Alpuerto, YL Dipolog Area Director

“One thing that I really remember that struck me was a quote that Katie  Farmer (YL APAC YoungLives Coordinator) shared when we were at the HK YL Office. She said ‘we’ve been spending our life looking for Someone who is looking for us.’ That hit different because it’s really true.”

-Arrah Hernandez, YL Bacolod Northsyd Area Director

“The whole Hong Kong trip is another reminder of how great my God is. Hong Kong, especially Disneyland was just a dream and I can't believe it became a reality. It proves that God will provide all my needs and even wants. The bottom line is, God is truly working in my life and I am beyond grateful. Thank you Lord, because through this trip it reminds me again that I don't need to worry for tomorrow because you are more than willing to provide more than I asked for. Thank you for you are the same God yesterday, today, and forever!”

-Kim Codera, YL Cebu-Highland Area Director

“The trip to Hong Kong showed me the fast-paced lifestyle there. People, cars, and duties are all going at a rapid pace. It made me think that in the midst of all the hurry, we need to slow down, see the people surrounding us, and connect with God. The Christian community's differences in culture and difficulties proved how beautiful God's creation was in both nature and mankind. We are all part of God's plan, regardless of our differences. So, appreciating differences and staying together, it's important to make time with God, whether life is fast or slow.”

- Bienz Omandac, YL Philippines Data Manager

What an amazing trip indeed! Which is why this week, we ask that you help us pray for a couple of things:

• That all our staff and volunteers would have equally, if not more exciting adventures in the future that would allow them further ignite their fire for ministry

• That the YL ministry in Hong Kong would continue to grow and reach more and more kids!

• That everyone would have a wonderful Christmas season!

May you all be blessed this December, dear friends and supporters. And always remember the true reason for this season!

Mabuhay and Lahutay!

From all of us,

Your Young Life Philippines Family

The Christmas Season is Here!

by: Daisy Saladaga

Scripture:

Luke 2:10-12

“But the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”

Devotional:

Here in the Philippines, the Christmas season starts in September. By this time we would have already started hearing Christmas carols at the mall and on radio stations. We’ll even start singing one or two Christmas songs in our Young Life club meetings.

As for me, Christmas is my favorite time of year! It's a time of year when the whole world is hearing the message of the birth of Jesus.

Nothing in all of creation, in all history, can compare to this event: the beginning of God's perfect revelation to us in our very own form. He's given us the greatest gift—his Son.

Jesus came to earth with one thing in mind: to love us and cleanse us from our sins by His blood. It was our sin that made it necessary for him to come, but it was our heavenly Father's incredible grace, mercy, and love that made Christmas possible.

Maybe Christmas this year will be sad for many people, perhaps for you. Take heart! Christmas needn't be merry to be meaningful. Christ is the reason we celebrate this season.

As we celebrate Christmas this year, let us not forget to give thanks and praise to our heavenly Father for the birth of Jesus our Savior. Let’s make it a part of our celebration. Merry Christmas!

Prayer:

Loving Father,

Help me focus on the real event. Help me remember that we celebrate Christmas for Christ, not for the festivities. May your peace be upon us, amidst the chaos of the world right now.

Amen!

Bigkis Camp 2023

Bigkis-Young Life

December 8 to 10

Weekend Escapade

YL Leyte

December 16 to 18

Booster Camp

YL Western Negros

December 28 to 29

*if you have any inquiries regarding any of the events below, just click on the organizing area to send an email to the staff-in-charge.

Godofredo “Kuya Fred” Aviles, Jr. | Dec 02 | Consultant, YL Philippines

Mark Derrick Coja | Dec 02 | Volunteer Leader, YL Iloilo West

Sheen Almonicar | Dec 03 | Volunteer Leader, YL Cebu-North

Ana Liza S. Luague | Dec 06 | Volunteer Staff, YL San Carlos

Elisse Jonmarie Yasi | Dec 07 | Volunteer Leader, YL Dumaguete

FROM: ARAH MAE

I pray for my strength and overall health, for everyone’s safety and guidance, and for peace between Israel and Palestine.

FROM: KRIS

Please pray for my family’s health, protection and guidance. That the Lord would give us strength, peace of mind, good heath, and protection. Also, I hope and pray that we would celebrate Christmas as a complete family this year.

FROM: KAREN

Please help me pray that I would be able take the Comprehensive Exam this December, and that I would be able to pay for all my MA fees. And for Steven to be financially provided and guided as we journey towards his application and paper processing.

FROM: ELTHON

Good health and safety for my loved ones, guidance and safety for my review, and that I would be able to successfully pass my upcoming board exam.

FROM: JACKRIS

Please pray for my family’s health, or them to continuously be guided and protected by the Lord, and for us to have strong and consistent communication always. Please also pray for me as I prepare to take my Licensure exam this January 2024.

FROM: JAMAICA

Please pray for the safety and health of my family, that I would be able to get a job, and that I would be able to pass the board exam.

FROM: LORRAINE

Please pray for the fast recovery of my brother Lyndon, as he got into an accident and had broken a finger. Also, please pray that we our salary would be released soon, and that my family would continue to be safe.

FROM: RUVILYN

Please pray for peace of mind and for the safety of my kids.

FROM: ANONYMOUS

Hopefully, Lord-willing, we would be able to have a baby this year.