Can you imagine working around the clock in a hostile environment and not being able to get away to rest? Many Filipino missionaries know this reality well. They work in urban locations around the Philippines, members of various mission groups all working for the same goal: to see the church established among ethnic minorities.

Although they are still in their home country, many of them are serving far from home on other islands. They daily face the challenge of ministering in a foreign culture hostile to the message of Christ. In these communities they are the minority, trying to cope with a language and customs that are difficult to comprehend. Some are threatened by local religious leaders, and more than one has been killed.

Ministry can’t be scheduled the same way as a job at the office, and stress mounts daily, often with no real day off. A trip home to rest (24 hours by boat) costs more than their meager allowance will cover. For years, SIM has recognized the necessity for some sort of rest-house for these faithful missionaries. Their need for a place to rest and refuel is critical. What would it take to care for them?

• A house away from the daily stress but still easily accessible
• Private bedrooms, a place to read, reflect, and pray
• Space to gather for meals, worship, and conversation
• A listening ear, someone who will understand
• Affordable rates

SIM field missionaries are teaming up with the SIM sending council to prepare Barnabas House, a retreat home, to meet this need. They have chosen a house in an ideal location available to rent beginning June, 2006. This 5-bedroom home in a quiet neighborhood can accommodate 12-15 guests at once. Large living and dining rooms provide opportunities for fellowship. And, best of all, experienced Filipina worker Ghie, and her daughter, Hannah, will live there to oversee the guest house and counsel those who come to rest. Ghie, along with 16 other faithful workers, has just come under the SIM umbrella as a member of FilSIM, a new entity that provides an identity and member care for Filipino missionaries.

Give

Would you encourage these faithful workers by your prayers and giving? If partners like you are able to provide the $18,000 needed to get this house up and running, then Filipino missionaries will be able to stay there for less than $2 US per night. Please help make this dream a reality!