Reaching the Tausug in the Philippines.

On the outskirts of the city of Zamboanga in the Philippines lies the town of Recodo. Most of the people who inhabit this town are Tausug, which means, “The people of the current”. Traditionally they were maritime people, pearl divers or fisherman. 

They are predominantly Sunni Muslims who have adopted Islam while holding onto their animistic background from generations back. Some of the poorest live in slums where education and health are not priorities.

AsiaLink has partners who have worked in this area for some years, and it has been a joy to be able to help them expand their work through Challenge 25. It is a difficult and dangerous place to minister but they have been warmly welcomed because of what they bring to the community.

The work in which our partners are involved is primarily with children. A need for kindergarten teachers was identified who would be able to offer wholistic, and spiritual teaching for those under normal school age. The project reaches children between the ages of 3 and 6 years and their Muslim mothers.

Evelyn* is an older lady, married with children and grandchildren who grew up in a Muslim family but who converted to Christianity some years ago. She speaks Tausag and is outgoing in her personality. She manages, teaches and cares for the children who attend the school along with a few volunteers. 

Each month Pastor Carlo who heads up the teaching team visits the school and meets with the families. He engages with them as they share some of the difficulties they face just living from day to day. Over time he has made good connections with the parents and officials.

A typical school day begins at 8:30 am with an opening prayer and song. Then the teachers lead the flag ceremony and exercises, training the psychomotor skills. The children work on their writing through tracing lines and shapes, as well as learning body parts. Recently the teachers have told the story about the seven days of creation. The day is full of singing and movement, reading of stories, and a snack.

The building they use comes with its problems but with the help of locals and gifts they are making progress in restoring it to a satisfactory level.

Graduation is a big deal in the Tausug culture and the end of the year celebration in April was a special event attended also by the local officials. This project has gained a nice reputation in the community. The teachers and Pastor Carlo have much favour there.

HOW TO PRAY

• Pray for Pastor Carlo as he leads the team and Evelyn as she works with the kids and families.

• Praise God for the wonderful opportunities to share bible stories with parents also and for Carlo’s time with them, listening and talking about the issues they face in daily life.

• Pray that funds would be found for repairs to the building so it can be safe and clean and well used to introduce people to Jesus

*name changed for security