It’s true.  We really can’t, and shouldn’t, deny it – for a lot of people, it’s going to be a cold, cold Christmas this year.  i cannot even begin to imagine how the relatives of those who were massacred in Maguindanao are going to manage the season.  And how about those whose homes continue to be flooded even three months after Ondoy has left?  It seems even saying Merry Christmas is almost cruel.

But we do not have to give in to despair or doom.  We may not be able to bring back the lives of those who are gone, but we can certainly help those who are still living to have a semblance of color in their hearts instead of the dark gray that fills the sky these days.

Come December 12, Saturday, PCCC will return to Tagumpay Compound, Barangay Bagong Silangan, Quezon City – one of two places we have officially adopted as recipients not only of our relief efforts but even our long-term plans for rehabilitation.  The first time we went there, they had coffins right beside them.  The second time we came, they asked, “Why did you come back?”  By the third time they had recognized some of our faces, and we theirs.  This Saturday, we hope it we will be a happy sight for them as we bring with us colorful bags and bundles of noche buena packages and loot bags for their children – all 250 families in the area.

Leading the effort is Ellen Fermin, a big-hearted woman who loves doing things for others.  She and i, together with about 100 plus other staff, employees and volunteers of PCCC will do our best, by God’s grace to help bring even a smile to a child’s face.

The last time we went to Tagumpay Compound it was with about 70 UPCCC staff, students and alumni.  We brought them packed lunch and shared the Gospel with them.  Then in the afternoon we conducted trauma counseling for children, youth activity for the teens, disaster risk management for the adults and we even distributed large garbage bins for their area.  It will be interesting to see their reactions now that only about a month has passed since we last saw them.

It’s true, the weather is cool, even cold nowadays.  But the heart can be warmed and the Spirit can soothe souls.  Maybe, just maybe, we could be a small part of helping to make that happen this Saturday – even if it is just for 250 families.  Pray?  Thanks!

Under: About Your Missionary, Prayer Points