In 2001, at the ages of 53 and 49, we sold our house and "stuff" in Cleveland Ohio, kissed our kids and grand kids goodbye, and moved to the Philippines.  We probably looked crazy to some people!  We were  far from what some would call the "typical" candidates for missions, but God recycles people that say "YES, LORD" and He equips those He calls to carry His Good News, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Under ACTION Philippines, our ministry is called FACE 2 FACE. the name reflects our personal involvement and care for individuals. Our vision is to connect the rich and poor to Christ and to each other through one-on-one evangelism, compassion and advocacy for the poor and prison inmates. By meeting real needs through practical action steps, "with no strings attched," we show sincere care and God opens doors of opportunities to share His grace and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. People listen when they know you really care about them.
 
We minister with the ladies of the womens' prison, CIW (Correctional Institution for Women) on the southern island of Mindanao. New Billibid Prison, the national men's prison in Muntinlupa houses nearly 13,000 inmates in maximum security, and this is where we base our missionary work. We disciple inmate leaders through weekly Bible studies as well as develop creative strategies to connect with the prison population through personal concern and care.  With the help of God's people, FACE 2 FACE has been able to build two cisterns, plant vegetable gardens, supply medical and school supplies, replace a burned out roof  on inmates' housing, provide sports fests and concerts, as well as sponsor a Dr. Harold Sala conference with inmate leaders from all religious and non-religious groups. We have been able to share hundreds of reading glasses with hand knit cases and distribute Christian literature in the mother tongue languages of  prisoners from all over the Philippine Islands.

THE STORY GOES ON...God has not finished writing the Burnham Story!

Our Mighty god is still drawing all men to Himself and that includes prisoners and terrorists. God is using FACE 2 FACE and the inmates we disciple to reach out to the Burnham kidnappers, among others. Now, these men are the ones in captivity and being held in New Bilibid Prison. We feel compelled to complete the task god has given us and further nurture the Gospel seed planted with the blood and tears of this couple held hostage in the jungles of the Philippines. We are honored to be a partner with Gracia in reaching these men and thank God for each of you who are standing with us.

Through your prayers and finances,

YOU are an important part of this continuing story.

Thank you friends!

If you or someone you know would like to receive our  hard or soft copy FACES OF THE PHILIPPINES, or talk about becoming a partner in God's work in the Philippines, email us.

At this time we are short of funds and currently in need of additional financial partners to join in this ministry. Please pray about joining in God's Kingdom work through our FACE 2 FACE ministry. We'd be happy to talk to you about becoming a partner in God's work in the Philippines. Thank you!