March 15, 2012
In February/March our team traveled to the Philippine islands. Their journey took them three weeks. They started off in Manila, flew to Cebu City, and finished off in Butuan City.
The Kingdom Message Foundation School in Butuan City held their end-year celebration as April and May are their summer months. The celebration followed a Philipino tradition in which the kindergarteners must go through a graduation process. The certificate for these students had to be signed and handed out by an official from the Department of Education.
After the white gowned and capped kindergartners were given their “diplomas,” the awards were given to all of the students. Every student was given a ribbon acknowledging their strengths in the study program. Every class also put on some performance: singing of hymns, reciting Bible verses, or acting out a story.
About noon a fabulous meal was served to everyone. Our team had good fellowship with the families, getting acquainted with some who are being sponsored.
The Department of Education Official, who has oversight of all private schools in the city, said that this school is regarded as a good one. We had opportunity to observe the teachers with their students and the principal as well. They are a most delightful and energetic staff of young exuberant women. The children respond very well to them.