Batang Krayola Christmas Party

It is with overflowing gladness that we would like to share what God did to all of us at the last Christmas Parties. It was a very wonderful experience and a privilege to share God’s love to the Filipino kids!

Last November 29, 2010 the Extreme Response Team Arrived from Sacramento, California to help us with Christmas Parties. Previously, they were here also in 2007 and 2008. Their first day was reserved for the team to take some rest after a long flight and orientation in the afternoon.  The next day, we started sorting out and packing the gift bags for the kids.  Each bag contains school supplies, toys, beanie babies and hygiene materials. We also prepared the candies that we will be using as prizes for each of the ten game stations.

Just like the way we did our Christmas parties since 2008, the 2010 parties had a carnival theme.  The only difference is that instead of the usual carnival games we used in the past, we introduced traditional Filipino parlor games.  Most of us in the YM team grew up with these kinds of games but because of the advancement of technology and changes in our society, gadgets seem to take over and many young children grow up without getting the chance to play these games.  Part of our culture is slowly slipping away.  We decided to include part of our culture into the parties.  So this year we did not just celebrate Christmas, we also helped in preserving our culture.

Indeed it became a hit.  The kids showed much excitement and enthusiasm because they understood and could easily relate to the games.   From December 03 until 11 we were witnesses to the joy, laughter and fun of the 1100 kids that participated in the 6 Christmas Parties we held for our partner churches.  We’ve been to 2 different areas in Metro Manila, 1 in Olongapo, 1 in Morong, Bataan (Kanawan Tribe), 1 in Cavite and 1 as far as Tiaong, Quezon.

Also, part of the program is a Gospel Presentation using magic tricks conducted by a member of the ER Christmas Party team from Sunrise Community Church in Sacramento, California.  The Lord used the presentation powerfully as many children received Christ as their Lord and Savior.  After the Gospel presentation, the kids then went to the game stations for their opportunity to play.  The fun didn’t end there as we gave gifts, snacks and prizes to the kids before they went home.

We are so thankful that God answered our prayers.   To see them smile, laugh, have fun and know Jesus as their Lord and Savior truly is a big answer to our prayers.