Trusting God in our Life’s Journeys

Devotional: ........................................ “In God I Trust” ................. Raylene Rodrigo Baumgart, BSN’78 Editor’s Thoughts: ............................. “Leave A Trail” .................. Raylene Rodrigo Baumgart, BSN’78

Featured “SULAD Beginnings” Items: Chosen And Called: Journeys Of A Missionary To Africa ................................... Nellie Pelayo-Llaguno Bai Candelaria: Journeys Of A Sulad Nurse .......................................................... Judith Teves, BSN’95 Escaping A Bullet: Journeys Of A Missionary Nurse ................................ Vilma Llanos-Halder, BSN’78 SULADS’ Corner: ........................ “Teach Me How To Pray” ................................... Sulad Ailyn Llamera Patch of Weeds: ............................................ ............................................................... Jesse Colegado LIFE of a Missionary: ......... “Korean: Land of the Morning Calm” .................................. Romy Halasan

CLOSING: Announcements |From The Mail Bag| Prayer Requests | Acknowledgements Meet The Editors |Closing Thoughts | Miscellaneous

Photo used for today’s banner: Today’s banner is of a photo taken by the editor herself when she was vacationing in

Italy’s Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is famous for its scenery and is a popular tourist destination.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go”.

Joshua 1:9 NIV

his year has been truly a year of travel for me. I left for the Philippines in January and stayed there until end of March. I went back to my hometown of Molave and journeyed to all the surrounding mountains, rice fields and villages through all forms of public or

private transport-tation possible. There were moments of sheer frustration with public transport. And there were agonizing scary times riding with motorbikes/mopeds as well as “karumatas.” My only consolation was the verse above. How comforting it is to know that wherever we go, God is there with us. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations and wonder if God is paying attention. And we get scared. One bright and sunny Thursday, I decided to pay a surprise visit to a tenant who has been taking care of my father’s rice fields for the last 8 years. This parcel of rice fields is unreachable by public transportation. It can only be reached by foot or motorbike and then by a canoe. This man, Dodo, told my father that there has been no produce since there has been no real harvest from the rice fields due to constant flooding. My father took his word for it. I didn’t. So, I decided to find out for myself. I told my dad’s caretaker to inform him that a potential buyer for the “basakan” was coming. He had no idea it was me. Hiring a “habalhabal” scared me beyond words as we rode through the roughest mountain road and uneven terrain at such fast speed. Then we arrived at the river where we had to ride a canoe. I was expecting to hire a reliable big canoe only to find out it was a very old tiny one with some holes that the man had to keep scooping water out from the floor otherwise the whole canoe will be flooded. It was terrifying! Then I was told that the residents along this river are mostly “rebels” who do not welcome newcomers or strangers. Looking at how I was dressed, I was definitely a target for kidnapping. But just like any other trips I have made in the past, I am totally relying upon Him, my Guide and my Deliverer and his promise: "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of

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Israel, your Savior. From eternity to eternity I am God. No one can snatch anyone out of my hand. No one can undo what I have done. Isaiah 43:1-3, 13 NLT Every day, God is with us, leading us, guiding us, loving us, providing for us – with all His unlimited resources. What do we need? Do we need strength, peace, love, joy, or hope? He has it all. He is longing to pour out His favor and blessing upon us. We need to be open to Him and to trust Him. We need, by faith, to receive what He has for us. It is essential we realize how much He loves us and that He has a good purpose and plan for us. There is nothing that God doesn't know and can't do for us. He walks with us every moment of every day. We need to speak these Scriptures to our hearts. The devil can't stand it when we, in confidence, speak God's Word. It builds faith in us and gives us the strength to stand. My daily prayer is: Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. And I know You will never leave me alone. I trust God in all my journeys. You too can trust God. No matter what is going on in your life, He is there! God goes where you go.

y husband accepted an offer of summer professorship from Karlsruhe University in Germany so, I have been privileged to spend my summers in Europe this past three years. Last April, I had to go visit my daughter in Germany and she invited me to travel

with her through Italy’s Amalfi Coast and Croatia. Deemed an outstanding example of a Mediterranean landscape by UNESCO, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s favorite summer destinations. Here mountains plunge into the sea with such mesmerizing panoramic views of precipitous crags, cliff-clinging colorful buildings, forever blooming botanical gardens and verdant woodland. It was listed in 1997 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and what a deserving award! Starting from Naples through Sorrento, Positano, Praiano, Amalfi and Ravello plus the boat ride around beautiful Capri – this was truly a treat of a lifetime. Dramatic coastlines, towns scattered with vineyards and orchards, bougainvillea-adorned villas and tranquil pastures with stunning

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views of the deep blue turquoise waters and azure skies await the travelers. In all my travels, I have never seen such a special kind of breath-taking beauty in nature. Growing up in a small town of Molave, Zamboanga del Sur, where our special destinations for vacation composed only of swimming in the many natural waterfalls around the area or going to the beaches in Tukuran - I never dreamed I would get a chance to see the wonders of a world beyond the Philippines. Although I have always wished as a child to be able to travel around the world, never did I imagine that what I have seen so far are as fantastic as they are. Whenever I travel, I cannot help but be deeply moved in gratitude to our Creator for making such a beautiful world beyond my imagination. A lot of my friends have always remarked how lucky I am to be able to afford all my trips. I just smiled, because while most of my traveling friends spend a lot of money in joining group tours flying to famous destinations, most of my flights are basically free from my husband’s frequent flyer program. We try not to go to the most crowded and expensive touristic places and chose to go to the ones less traveled by. My family and I never book at expensive hotels or resorts. We chose ordinary bed and breakfast (Airbnb) homes where we could spend time getting to know the family and getting to know the locals in town, immersing ourselves with their culture. This to me, was the best part of the journey. I have met so many interesting people in all walks of life and they have become my Facebook friends where we share our stories and our passion in traveling around the world.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail”.

Raylene Rodrigo Baumgart

Quotes For The Week

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” Lao Tzu

“Life is a journey that must be traveled

no matter how bad the roads and accommodations.” Oliver Goldsmith

“Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and celebrate the journey.”

Fitzhugh Mullan

t all started with a dream. As an MVCian, I always dreamt of being able to serve the Lord in any capacity. From stories told by missionaries all over the world, I knew such a journey will be challenging but full of excitement. Oliver Goldsmith once said, “Life is a journey that

must be traveled no matter how bad the roads and accommodations.” And so deep inside I knew I would be ready when my time comes. That wish came true when I started my work as a missionary in Africa in August 1974 serving as the Accountant in the East African Union (EAU) with offices in Nairobi, Kenya. But just like any missionary, we do not get to choose where our journey will lead us. God chooses the way and in May of 1978, I got transferred to the Afro-Mideast Division (AMD) in Beirut, Lebanon as Cashier-Accountant. But because war was raging at the time, the Division headquarters was moved to Nicosia, Cyprus. In 1979-1982 and based in Cyprus, and I was serving in the same capacity as Cashier-Accountant. Then in 1982-1984 the then Afro-Mideast Division was re-organized and became East Africa Division (EAD) with headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya. The Middle East territory became an attached Union to the General Conference. In 1982 when the new East African Division (EAD) team was about to move back to Kenya from Cyprus, I hesitated to go back. My reason was it is now my second round in Kenya. As a single person I wanted to explore other places, so I applied to go to Abidjan, Ivory Coast in West Africa. Do you know that that call never reached me although some friends told me that a call has been passed? So, in April 1982 I had to retraced my steps and I found myself working again in Nairobi at the East Africa Division (EAD) headquarters. Little did I realize that God had a big surprise for me. It was in my second missionary journey to Kenya that I met a fine gentleman who later became my partner for life. Two years later, in April 29, 1984, that we committed to joining our efforts and our lives in serving the Lord. We got married in Harare, Zimbabwe, in a very simple wedding ceremony. A few Filipino missionaries graced us with their presence: Dr. Danny and Myrna Dial, then missionaries in Malawi, and Dr. Aldine Almonte, who flew all the way from Malamulo just to be there as she said she cannot afford to miss the event when she watched Alex grow in front of her eyes in Cebu. This we will forever cherish.

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Immediately after the wedding, I left my job at the Division Office and joined Alex at Heri Adventist Hospital in Tanzania. There we stayed for only six months. Then we accepted a call to Zambia to work in a very remote Mission Hospital, Yuka Adventist Hospital. This chapter of our missionary life was the most trying, most challenging, most difficult for us; but it was also the most rewarding experience we ever had in our mission experience thus far! This chapter of our lives could write volumes of books about. Here we stayed for 8 years. There was a book written by a missionary couple, Paul and Dawn Giblett, just before our arrival at Yuka. The title of their book was “Missionaries Don’t Cry”. It was a journal of their stay at Yuka. So many times, I told friends that if I were a writer I would write a sequel to that book and title it “Missionaries Do Cry”. We will reserve this for another time.

will always be grateful to God for this wonderful opportunity given us to have a small part in sharing His love to others. Personally, I can’t believe I would last this long in Africa. As far as I know, amongst the Filipino missionaries, it seems like I am the one who stayed the

longest in Africa and I am still here in Africa happy serving the Lord. I remembered working here in Africa with some of the Filipino folks: The Tagalogs, Gayares, Villagomezes, the Nelson Tabingos, the Henry Tabingos, the Francos, Hechanovas, Ninfa Gonzaga, Orillosas, Pinedas, Adaps, Meds Reyes Versteeg, Gajes, Letty Omega Lachica, Cherry Pefanco, the Osorios, the Felipe Caballeros, the Lastas ( Dr. Art and Ate Jean..by the way they were with me this past week-end. They drove from Botswana to here. Found out you are cousins), Linda Alinsod, Dinah Sacay, the Dapos, Glorias, Nerie Bocala, Saguans, Dinah Tabaranza Goncalvez, Marlene Mopia, Uncle Pepe and Auntie Rhodie Llaguno, Nonoy and Girlie Llaguno, Delvin and Cheryl Marquez, the Conopios, Aurea Pasamba, Mike and Inday Caballero, Largosas, Manuels, Bayetas, Sergie and Mercy Ferrer, Alvin and Leilah Rocero, the Negres, Padillas, and many many others I can no longer remember. We were all working in the same continent but in different countries. In the 70’s and 80’s I used to mail the missionaries’ paychecks each month from the Division office to countries like Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Egypt, Cyprus, Iraq, Iran, and Lebanon. My place in Cyprus became an R and R abode for fellow Filipinos from the Middle East. They would come in batches… in 4,8,3,2s. They treated me like their visitor in my own house. Often they treated me out and my fridge was always full. Oh, how I enjoyed their company. Some were engineers, most were nurses, doctors, office workers, and industrial workers. In Nairobi, Filipino missionaries from the other East African countries would come to Kenya for their annual leave, medical needs, and purchasing of supplies. So my place was always full of visitors that often my coworkers would tease me, “How’s Pelayo’s hotel? Is it still fully booked?” But it did not end there because now they often would ask, “How’s the Llaguno’s hotel? Do we need to book a month ahead?” To us this has become part of our mission work. Hosting and taking care of our fellow Filipino missionaries.

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eing a missionary for God gave us the opportunity to go to so many places. In May 1984-1988 Alex and I served in Yuka Adventist Hospital, Kalabo, Zambia. He as Medical Director and I served as Business Manager. Then in 1988-1992, we went home to Manila,

Philippines where Alex finished his Internal Medicine Residency Training. Four years later, in 1992-1996 we returned to serve at Yuka Adventist Hospital, Zambia. Then more changes came. In 1996-2002, we were able to serve in Gaborone, Botswana with Alex as a practicing doctor and myself as Accountant. Then from 2003-2006, Alex served as the Health Ministries Director for the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division (SID) in Harare, Zimbabwe while I worked as Controller in the Treasury Dept. From 2007-2015, Alex served for two terms still as Health Ministries Director at SID.

Today, since November 2015 Alex serves as Executive Director for Adventist Aids International Ministry (AAIM), a General Conference Institution based in Johannesburg, South Africa. He covers the three African Divisions in the Continent: West Africa Division (WAD) with headquarters in Abidjan, Ivory Coast; East Africa Division (ECD) with headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya; and Southern Africa Indian-Ocean Division (SID) with headquarters in South Africa. Altogether, he supervises and coordinates the HIV AIDS program of the church in the whole continent of Africa which has more than 50 countries. And, humanly speaking, he is doing it all alone. That’s why you often find him travelling. The territory is vast, the work is difficult, so we just do our best.

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At AIMM, I serve as the Finance Officer and Office Manager. There are just the two of us in this office but we have HIV AIDS coordinators in the three Divisions with corresponding people in the Union and Conferences level to coordinate with. That’s the reason we had 110 delegates during our recent HIV AIDS Tri-Division Congress. They represent the people we work with in these three Divisions. The Adventist AIDS International Ministry (AAIM) was created by the General Conference in October 2002 in response to the HIV pandemic ravaging the many parts of the world. Since the epi-center of this malignant disease is in the continent of Africa accounting for 70% of all the world cases, in July 2004 the office of AAIM was established in Bryanston, South Africa. There is hardly anyone who has not been touched, affected, or come in contact with this malevolent scourge. Based on the 2014 comparative prevalence rate (the number of cases per 100 persons), the territory of the Southern Africa Indian Ocean has 9 out of the 10 top countries in the world. The figure below shows that in Swaziland, the number one country with the highest prevalence rate, out of 100 individuals between 15-49 years old, 27 are HIV positive. This also goes for the rest of the countries. The other method of measuring the progress of the disease

by the incidence or the number of actual cases in a given country. Again, using this method, it is obvious that the SID region has been badly battered by HIV. South Africa has the highest number of infected individuals with 7.1 million individuals affected as of 2016. With this glaring data, it is painfully obvious that HIV is destroying many lives, has resulted in countless tears, brought multiple sufferings, and other millions of tragedies. For this reason, the church has created AAIM to reveal the love, compassion, and mercy of Jesus Christ to those infected and/or affected through its various programs which you are invited to support. We support several programs which we would love to share with family and friends, so you will be aware of our needs. **Training of pastors, elders, and lay people on prevention strategies, awareness of HIV, and also to mobilize each church to embark into HIV programs for the members and for the communities. The goal is to have at least 50% of all our churches involved in at least one or more regular ongoing programs. **Support Distribution of Human Sexuality Book: It is well known that 95% of HIV infection are due to sexual practices. This does not mean that those who fall into this category are due to immorality or the violation of the 7th commandment. Instances such as mother to child transmission, a faithful spouse infected because of a promiscuous partner, or there is rape where the victim is innocently inoculated with HIV. Yet all this fall under sexual encounters. Then there is a great number of perverse sexual happenings bringing about HIV. The book Human Sexuality intends to teach everyone about the Divine design of our sexuality. The deviation of His purpose has brought untold HIV woe and suffering. **Care of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) - It is sad that the ones who have been seriously affected are the children. In one country, it is estimated to have about 2 million orphans. These children need to be taken care of, given parental love, and other necessities in life. AAIM has established Grandmothers Club composed of older women in the church and community who are dedicated to helping the OVCs. Many chapters have been established. **Income Generating Activities- Here in Africa, this is associated with poverty. Many women are selling their bodies to be able to meet the daily necessities of life. AAIM is teaching these women the Godly way of earning a living like sewing, buy and sell businesses, raising poultry or cattle, basket making, bakery, gardening, soap manufacturing, and many others. Many ladies have now transitioned from being ladies of the night into women of distinction. **Evangelism: There are many who have gone into the grave without hearing of the wonderful news of eternal life. At the time, many who are infected are longing to hear the good news that death is not the end of our existence. They need to have hope. **Fight against stigma and discrimination: This is one of the greatest deterent that has made this disease difficult to be controlled. People are afraid to come to the open. Many are hesitant to do

testing for fear of the negative attitudes associated with those who are HIV positive. As a result, those who are not aware of their HIV status are unconsciously spreading the disease. ** Youth Prevention Programs: When this disease was newly diagnosed, 1 out of 4 new cases was in the ages 13-25 years old or the youth. Lately, the percentage has gone up to 51% showing that young people are the upcoming victims of HIV. Programs are in place to target young people. You never know, your own children may be the next victim. ** Greatest need. This allows AAIM to decide on how to use your donation.

eanwhile, God has made us guardians of two precious gems, a son and a daughter, both of whom are in the Philippines. Arnel Keith, 28, just finished his Master’s in Business Management at the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) and Raenelle Lynn, 27,

is now pursuing a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology in San Carlos University in Cebu. Raenelle is married to Robin Ramroop, a Trinidadian who is now in his third year of Medical School in Cebu Doctors University. They have two lovely boys, Roshan Chris (5) and Ryan Jesse (2). Our lives are enriched with these adorable kids. The best thing that happened to me as a missionary? Firstly, God gave me the opportunity to meet people of various races and cultures, and to see places I would have never had the chance to see had I remained back home. Secondly, He provided me a partner and I, as a helpmeet, in this wonderful ministry. My prayer was always like “Lord if you give me someone who will love you more than He would love me, and someone who is committed to work for you, I really don’t mind serving you here in Africa until you come.” And He did. Remember the verse in Matt. 19:29: Clear Word Paraphrase. “Anyone who leaves everything He has, brothers and sisters, parents, or wife and children because of me will receive a hundred times more spiritual blessings in this life and the gift of eternal life as well.” I don’t have sisters, as I am the only daughter. Now I have hundreds of sisters around the world, not to mention the sisters-in-law He gave me. Before I only have three brothers…Now I have hundreds of brothers in Christ all over. God is faithful, and God is good. He provides us with our needs not a minute before we need it but always on time. What I really want everyone to know is that I am grateful for what God has done for me in my journey, and not what I have done for Him. Dr. David Livingstone puts it this way: “It is not a sacrifice to be a missionary. Rather it is a privilege.” Editor’s Note: MVC alumna Nellie Pelayo-Llaguno has faithfully served as a foreign missionary to Africa for 44 years now. Today, she continues to SHINES ON! in South Africa as an Office Manager and Finance Officer serving as part of the Adventist AIDS International Ministry team.

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e know deep in our hearts that the Lord has been with us and He always saves. After being informed that several lives were lost in the neighboring villages of Tibugawon Mission School due the measles outbreak, the sulads immediately organized a

response team composed of Datu Bowngit (Sir Daryl Famisaran), Datu Lukig (Sir Limwel Ramada), Dr. Naphthalie Mosqueda and me. We brought with us some vaccines, medicines, supplements, compact food, clothing, water purifiers, syringes and needles, alcohol pads, band-aids, hammocks, food supplies. In our backpacks were whatever goods we thought we needed during our trek and stay in the village. We didn't know if there were already measles cases in the mission school, but we were determined to provide prevention and cure as God would direct us. After the SULADS' blue jeep dropped us off at the end of the road, we continued on our treacherous journey up the mountain trail riding on wooden planks that had been sat on a single motorcycle. There were a bunch of us on our modified transportation. Our legs hang on the air as we held on to the plank we were sitting on. We finally reached a place called Barangay Kawayanon, named after its many bamboo groves. We stopped to say hello to the Barangay Captain (courtesy call) and informed him of our intent to visit the area. He allowed us to proceed to the Mission School and even offered us his house should we need a place to stay on our way home. From here, we walked many miles the rest of the way to the Mission School. I remember having to cross the same winding river several times.

Finally arriving at our destination Tibugawon Mission School, we explained to the village chieftain (datu) and his people the purpose of our visit and how the vaccines would prevent the spread of the epidemic. We emphasized that nutritious diet and the use of multivitamins and mineral supplements can help resist diseases including measles. To help convince the villagers, the datu volunteered to take the first shot. He also urged the villagers to get the vaccine. Some of the children got scared when they saw the syringes and needles, they quickly ran away. But their parents ran after them and brought them back for the vaccines.

To reduce the fear of the children, I explained what I had to do and, using an orange fruit, I demonstrated they would be injected. “See? The orange did not even cry!” I said grandiosely coughing the children to laugh and encouraging them to get their shot.

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While at the Tibugawon Mission School, we also wanted to make sure that they villagers knew how to have a balanced diet. So we a cooking demonstration, feed them a balanced meal, taught them how to plant a garden and provided some health lectures. Meanwhile Dr. Mosqueda, the physician in the team, examined and treated patients. Only when we were certain that the villagers were provided the medical care they needed did we leave for home.

Having served in these mountains for years as student missionaries, my companions were familiar with the weather. Sir Daryl and Sir Lemy frowned as they eyed the heavy dark clouds which loomed afar indicating that there was a heavy downpour up on the mountains. This was bad news for us, especially since we were hiking down the mountain. The river would swell, its swift current dangerous to us. They look the other way at the mountain estimating that the flood of water would be rushing down the mountain soon. It was quickly decided that I would go ahead of the team, running as fast as I could until I reach the Barangay Kawayanon while the men would hike down the mountain with the rest of our gear. They estimated that I would reach Barangay Kawayanon by 3:00PM that afternoon. When I finally got to the trail, all I would have to do is follow the foot trail that would lead to the bamboo groves! There, I would inform the Barangay Captain that we were spending the night at his place. Easy, right? Recognizing what was at stake and understanding what I needed to do, I ran down that mountain as fast as my legs could take me. Low hanging branches slapped at me, bushes tried to trip me but I did not care. I ran! Then as rain started to pour, thoroughly soaking me, I knew that the river would soon get flooded. Crying out to God for more strength, I pushed even harder as I ran urgently aware of the perils that awaited me if I did not make it past the river before it flooded. Finally, I crossed the river for the last time and made it to what we called the path. It really was not a road. But wait – I noticed there was a fork on the path. I did not recall seeing a fork before. The left path looked familiar; seemed to be the path that would lead me to Barangay Kawayanon. But the right path was wide; it appeared well used and it even had some tire marks on them! “What if I would take this wider road? Surely a vehicle might drive by and give me a ride then I would make it to Barangay Kawayanon sooner,” I reasoned to myself. I grinned to myself, highly pleased with my decision as I made a detour and followed the wider path. As I journeyed, I noticed that the path was getting narrower and narrower, leading me through tall cogon grass to a vast newly developed rice field. Suddenly I realized where I was! I was in a swamp! The swamp of Barangay Candelaria! The swamp large and often, the body of water would reflect the sun or the moon, lighting up the whole area! The local folks called the place the “big lamp on the ground.” Candelaria. The terror of having to run down the mountain and get past the river before it flooded was now forgotten. Now, I was thrilled as I experienced walking among the rice paddies for the first time. I glanced at my surroundings trying to see everything at once and embracing the thrill of the moment. In between the paddies where mounds of try mud which the farmers used as borders.

They formed neat squares. I walked on the mounds trying to balance myself. I figured I would make a short cut through the rice paddies and make it into town quicker. Besides, I was having a grand time bothering no one. Suddenly, without warning, I slipped! I fell right into the mud of the rice paddies! I fell right into the newly planted rice! I chuckled and tried to get up but quickly realized something was very wrong. Each time I moved, the deeper I sank! Puzzled, I wondered if I feel into a quick sand! Whereas a few moments ago I was filled with excitement and joy, now my heart was gripped with terror. Whereas earlier I was enjoying the solitude, now I realized there was nobody around to help me. I prayed, "Dear God, please help me. I can't do this on my own. You promised that you're always with me..." Then to help calm myself, I recited memory verses for they gave me comfort. "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want... He that dwelleth in the sacred place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty... Call unto Me, and I will show you great and mighty things that you know not..." Soon, it began to get dark as the sun began to set. The cold mountain air started to blow on me as I lay drenched in the mud. “God, what shall I do now,” I asked as though I were having a conversation. “It's beginning to get dark. I am freezing here. Give me wisdom and common sense. Forgive me for being stubborn at times. Teach me how to get out of here."

Then I remembered to unlock the hip belt of my backpack and slowly release the bag off my body. It floated because it was insulated with a rolled sleeping pad in a large plastic garbage bag. I carefully stretched my limbs and slowly straightened my body to float on the muddy paddy while repeatedly uttering the verse: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." And as I claimed the promise: "whatsoever you ask in My Name, you shall receive it,” I noticed a 1-foot cogon grass which I did not see earlier. I was not sure if it had been there with the other 2 to 3-inches rice plants that were just planted on the paddy. More to my surprise, the cogon grass was well-rooted on the only hard spot of the paddy border. The rest of the border was soft mud especially since it was raining hard. Everything about that cogon grass was unusual but I wasn’t about to scoff at something that was an answer to my prayers! I grabbed the cogon grass and prayed, "Help me, Jesus." Finally, I able to climb out of the rice paddy with the help of that cogon grass! I was soaked and muddy, but I was just glad to be out of that sink hole. I reached for my floating backpack, stood up, and put my backpack on again. This time, I headed back to the right trail. As the darkness drew in, I ran as fast as I could towards Barangay Kawayanon. Sometimes I would slip, sometimes I would fall, but each time I would get up and continue running. Sometimes I would have to craw over fallen logs, cross some streams and cornfields, but always I kept my focus on Barangay Kawayanon where I was supposed to go in the first place!

Arriving at Barangay Kawayanon at dusk, I saw women and children gather around a spring. Some were fetching water, some were washing themselves, some were providing drinks to their animals while some were just trying to get some news. “Good evening!” I greeted them. “May I ask for some water?” (Mupiyana marisolom. Pwede mangayo og woig?”) After getting a drink, I quickly started cleaning the mud off me and my backpack. The women and children eyed me curiously. Finally, someone asked what happened to me. ("Ondoy ka patangko, Ma'am? Naunsa ka, Ma'am?") As I rinsed the mud off my clothing, I told them what had happened to me. “Oh! So you’re the sulad nurse!” one of the villagers blurted out. “It is a good

thing you lived through that fall! Portions of those fields are quicksand. As a community we are trying to turn the swamp into a rice plantation. That is our new community project. We still need to dump more soil there. Last month, we rescued a child who fell in the quicksand. Another piped in, “So, they have not taken you? “Who will take me” I inquired.

A child replied, "Those three men." "Oh you mean my companions? Datu Lukig, Datu Bowngit and Doc Mosqueda?” I asked referring to SULADS leaders Daryl Famisaran and Lemwil Ramada as well as Dr. Mosqueda as understand-ding dawned on me. “They are part of my team. They must be in Kapitan's house now. I best get going. Ok, dakols, salamat to kanyo.” (Thank you very much). Arriving at the Barangay Captain’s house, I found all the men gathered. When were very relieved when they saw me. Doctor Mosqueda was the one who saw me first. "Judith, how are you? Oh praise God you're here. We're so worried about you. Where have you been?" Quickly, I related to the group what happened to me. I noticed, however, that Daryl Famisaran still appeared concerned. I quickly found out why. "The woman who saw you reported to the Kapitan that you went to the rice field. We worried that

either you fell in the swamp or was taken by the rebels. You don't have time to change. We can't stay for the night. Kapitan said that the rebels (National People's Army) who took the Scout Ranger Lieutenant from Calinan, Davao as hostage had come to the village earlier this afternoon. They were looking for a barangay midwife or any health worker because the lieutenant is very sick. They've been walking for more than a week now looking for someone to take with them who can take care of the sick official in their camp. They haven’t found anyone because all the barangay midwives are in Malaybalay attending a seminar.” Lemwil Ramada added, “they were here around the time you were struggling in the rice paddies. It is a good thing you fell. They waited here at Kapitan’s house for you to arrive but they got tired of waiting and left. They wanted to take you with them.” The Barangay Captain urged us to leave the area immediately. He had a feeling that the rebels were still in the area still looking for a midwife, a nurse or a doctor. He worried that if they got wind that there is also a doctor and a nurse in our team, it would not end well for any of us. Soon the motorcycles he requested arrived and we quickly left under the cloak of the dark night and headed back to the SULADS headquarters at Mountain View College campus. Later in a simple but meaningful ceremony, I got ordained as a tribal female leader of the Manobo tribe. While the male chieftains are respectfully referred to as Datu the female leaders are respectfully referred to as Bai. During the ceremony, the Manobos gifted me a new name one that is special to them and one that supposedly describes the Bai. They named me Bai Candelaria because of the story of how I fell into the rice paddies at Baranggay Candelaria and how the Lord had timed things in my life so that I would not meet those rebels that day. The name means much to me not only because it was gifted to me, but because it reminds me of the beautiful swamp that got its name because it reflects the light that shines on it, whether it is the sun or the moon. I reminds me to SHINE ON, not producing my own light but instead reflecting the light of the Son. I have been constantly reminded that the Lord entrusted me to carry the lamp (candelaria) that represents my RN profession and the Light that beckons towards a path for the precious souls: of all of us, my native and spiritual Sulad (brothers).

The story I had shared is just one of the so many wonderful experiences I have had experienced while serving the King; among the many realizations and spiritual implications in whatever missionary work or ministry I have been involved in. So by the grace and mercy of God, I, Bae Candelaria, shine on! Editor’s Note: Judith Teves, BSN’95, served as a health specialist for the ADPRA/SULADS Project HEAL serving all the SULADS mission schools in 1998-2001. Today, as a registered nurse, Judith SHINES ON! as an MDS Coordinator in California.

hen I came to answer the call of being one of the volunteer nurses for the HELP (Health Education for Lanao People) Team, I knew there will be danger if not excitement. I have prepared myself mentally and emotionally that there will be times when I will have to

be brave. I accepted the reality that I could really die since there was still war raging between the military and the Muslims. My job was to be the Night Nurse of our team which means I start my nursing duty from 7:00 pm until 7:00 am. If there are admissions during those hours, I also have to admit them aside from taking care of the in patients. I could not forget the night when I was alone, on duty. Patients were all sleeping and I was checking charts and checking supplies at the Nurses station when I heard shots coming from the Airborne Headquarters across the street. There was no time to look outside the window to investigate. With adrenalin at work, I ran to and crawled under the hospital bed and asked myself, “Lord, is this my last moment of life? Is it my time to die?” In that short moment, I prayed with all my heart to God to save me if it is His will. I remembered every single member of my family and prayed for them too. Then I realized, there were no more shots! Pure silence! So I opened my eyes and realized I was hiding under one of the empty hospital bed which had bloody gauzes, trash of food and other dirty stuff which the patient’s family must have thrown away. (Teaching Muslims to use the trash cans was a painstaking task). I slowly got out and up from my hiding place. I noticed the wall above the Nursing Station had one big hole from a bullet. I realized that I had just narrowly escaped from death that night. That quick decision of hiding under the hospital bed saved my life. I could not stop praising God and thanking Him for saving me from imminent danger. Serving our Muslim brothers and sisters in Tamparan was quite an unforgettable experience. It was during that period of my life where I first learned to completely trust the Lord every day. I wake up each day grateful for a new life, a new beginning and finish the day with praises that I have been blessed with life. Editor’s Note: Vilma Llanos-Halder, BSN’78, is part of MVCSN’s Zephyrs’78 class. She served at Tamparan with Dr. Milcah Donton, Peter Donton and the team of young new nursing graduates from MVC.

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SULADS’ Corner: “Teach Me How To Pray”

By Sulad Ailyn Llamera, Teacher. SULADS High School

otsoy is an 8 year old boy from Zubiri Mission School. Since the Zubiri Mission School closed, he and his brother went to the SULADS High School to continue their studies. He lives with us. One night I reminded Botsoy to pray first before he slept. He confessed that

he did not know how to pray. Then he asked if he could borrow the book My Bible Friends. Leafing through the pages of what seemed to be the story of Daniel, he asked me what the story was about. And because I was sleepy I told him I will tell him the story tomorrow. “Okay, I will read the story,” he replied as he continued to leaf through the pages looking at the pictures. He interpreted the story according to his understanding. I also observed that he had gotten angry because the book showed an old man (Daniel) being thrown into a hole (lion’s den). He could not understand what was going on in the story and he was upset. “Come here. I will tell you the story.” I called to him. I read the story to him and he carefully listened. After reading the story, I told him to go to sleep but he wasn’t ready to sleep just yet. “Ma’am, teach me how to pray. I want to be like Daniel – he is so smart and handsome. I don’t want to eat pork anymore; it I dirty. I’ll always eat vegetables like Daniel.” I was touched by his earnest declaration but that was not all. He had more he wanted to say. “I also want to be baptized because I want to be saved. How old does a child have to be to get baptized?” he asked. “At our old mission school, our teacher would bring us to church every Sabbath. I was at church every Sabbath. But our mission school closed. No matter – I would love to stay here and continue with my studies where I can also attend worship always.” My heart was so touched. I pray that the SULADS work will continue till Jesus comes. There are many kids like Botsoy who want to hear Bible Stories and attend worship always. © SULADS International, Inc.

If you would like to support this mission program dedicated to taking the Gospel to the people of Mindanao, please write a check to Gospel Outreach. Mark it for the SULADS and send it to: Gospel Outreach P.O. Box 8 College Place, WA 99324 You may also donate to the SULADS using your credit card by logging on to Gospel Outreach's donation site (http://www.goaim.org/) and follow the directions. Again, mark it for SULADS. If you would prefer, you may write your check to the General Conference of

SDA and mark the donation for SULADS and send it to: General Conference of SDA Donations 12501 Old Columbia Pike Silver Spring, MD 20904 Thank you for your support of this very important project. If you do not want to receive any more newsletters, Unsubscribe To update your preferences and to unsubscribe visit this link Forward a

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Bedraggled Plant

One Mother's Day at church, I noticed carts of little potted flowers beside the altar. The pastor asked all the children to come forward and pick out a plant for their mother. My children and I had certainly survived some very hard times, and this special bit of appreciation was just what I needed. I was surprised when my children presented me with a small, bedraggled flower plant. Yet I saw joy and pride in their eyes, and asked them, out of all those beautiful flowers, what had made them pick this plant for me? My son said, "This one looked like it needed you, Mom." (from Da Mouse Tracks)

Flower Pun

A teacher was telling her class about plant names that have the word "dog" in them: dog-rose, dogwood, dog violet. She asked the class if they could name another flower with the preface "dog." Steven raised his hand and said, "Sure Miss Jones. How about a 'collie' flower!" (from Cybersalt Digest)

Flower Bed

Three-year-old Zoe watched her father Phil working in the garden. "What are you doing, Daddy?" she asked. He replied, "I'm making a flower bed." Soon Zoe started digging in the dirt, prompting Phil to ask, "And what are you doing?" Zoe replied, "I'm making pillows and blankets." (from Da Mouse Tracks)

The Prize

There is an old story about the Greek Marathon. Muscular, conditioned runners paced nervously near the starting line for the long-distance race. The time was near. They "shook out" their muscles, inhaled deeply, and put on their "game faces." In the midst of it all, a young stranger took his place at the starting line. His physique was awesome. Taking no notice of the other contestants, he stared straight ahead. Two prizes would be awarded the winner of the Marathon: a magnificent bouquet of flowers and the honor of standing beside the king until the conclusion of other contests. There seemed to be no question among the runners about who would win the prize. It is alleged that the stranger was offered money not to run. Someone else attempted to bribe him with property. Refusing the offers, he toed the mark and awaited the signal to run. When the signal was given, he was the first away. At the finish line, he was the first to cross, well ahead of the rest. When it was all done, someone asked the young man if he thought the flowers were worth as much as the money and property he had refused. He replied, "I did not enter the race for the flowers. I ran so that I could stand beside my king!" Those of us who have chosen to follow Jesus Christ are "running the race" (1 Cor. 9:24-25). It is a race that has a prize for those who finish (notice, not those who finish first, but all who finish). This prize, according to Paul, is an "imperishable crown." The rewards for those who enter heaven are described in scripture with a lot of terms - "many mansions", "streets of gold", "tree of life" - and the list goes on and on. All of those things are attractive. That's why God tells us about them. But I would be willing to give up all the streets of gold and settle for a small corner of a shack as long as I can know the reward of being able to stand beside my King. That's what I look forward to more than anything else. It is the one thing that will make heaven the wonderful reward that it will be. "...The throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him." (Rev. 22:3) Run the race with diligence. Your King is watching and waits for you at the finish line! (as seen in The Daily Encourager)

Ferns in the Garden of the Soul

There are ferns in the garden of the soul, as well as flowers. The flowers grow best in the sunshine; the ferns grow best in the shade. There is the fern of patience, and the fern of long-suffering, and the fern of meekness. And the great Gardener of the soul delights in the ferns, and purposes to save them from destruction by the garish day. And so He takes us into the shade — the shade of disappointment, or the shade of sorrow, or the shade of sickness and pain. But it is a very blessed shadow, for it is the “shadow of the Almighty.” And here the ferns flourish, and the cloudy day makes the garden beautiful. (By J. H. Jowett, Signs of the Times, 10, 1939 via the Signs of the Times Newsletter)

Birthday Roses

The young man ahead of my father at the flower shop was taking an unusually long time to place his order. When the clerk asked how she could help, he explained that his girlfriend was turning nineteen and he couldn't decide whether to give her a dozen roses or nineteen roses -- one for each year of her life. The woman put aside her business judgment and advised, "She may be your nineteen-year-old girlfriend now, but someday she could be your fifty-year-old wife." The young man bought a dozen roses. (from Mikey's Funnies)

The Geraniums Died

"I'm sorry," said the clerk in flower shop, "we don't have potted geraniums. Could you use African violets instead?" Replied the customer sadly, "No, it was geraniums my wife told me to water while she was gone." (from Mikey's Funnies)

Presidential Language

Harry Truman, when he was U.S President, once addressed the Washington Garden Club and kept referring to 'good manure' that must be used on flowers. Some society ladies complained (later) to the First Lady, Margaret Truman, "Bess, can't you get the President to say fertilizers?" The First Lady replied, "Heavens, it took me 25 years to get him to say 'manure'". (from PearlyGates)

The Garden of Eden

A Brit, a Frenchman and a Russian are viewing a painting of Adam and Eve frolicking in the Garden of Eden. "Look at their reserve, their calm," muses the Brit. "They must be British." "Nonsense," the Frenchman disagrees. "They're naked, and so beautiful. Clearly, they are French." "No clothes, no shelter," the Russian points out, "they have only an apple to eat, and they're being told this is paradise. Clearly, they are Russian."

Senior Citizens Are The World’s Leading Carriers of AIDS!

Yes, AIDS. Hearing aids, band aids, walking aids, medical aids, and most of all, monetary aid to their kids! Not forgetiing HIV (Hair is Vanishing!) Happy Seniors’ Day! (Aug21)

Land Of The Morning Calm

his week, let me share with you some interesting news from Korea, particularly South Korea. It occupies a peninsula on the eastern edge of the Asian continent as well as numerous small adjacent islands. It consists of 220,839 square kilometers.

Nearly 80 percent of Korea’s territory is covered by hills and mountains. The name Korea is believed by some to be derived from the phrase “high mountains,” sparkling streams and another name, Chosen, is often translated “The Land of the Morning Calm”. The title was most suited to South Korea because of its spellbinding natural beauty of picturesque high mountains and clear waters and its splendid tranquility, particularly in the morning which further confirmed the title on South Korea as the “Land of Morning Calm.” South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea is a country in East Asia, making up the southern part of the Korean Peninsula and lying east to the Asian mainland. It is comprised of an estimated 51.4 million residents. The capital and largest city is Seoul, with a population of 10 million. The origins of the Koreans are yet to be determined. The ancestors of the Koreans seem to have had links with the people of Central Asia, the Baikal region, Mongolia, Manchuria and the coastal areas of the Yellow sea.

Religions Today’s South Korea is a melting pot of world religions. Its most primitive and oldest form of religion is animism which is practiced mostly among the rural people. The earliest foreign religion to gain wide acceptance was Buddhism which entered the country via Chinese and Indian Missionaries around A.D 372. Confucianism entered Korea at nearly the same time as Buddhism.

Christianity began in Korea with the indirect influence of Western ideas brought back from China by Korean tributary emissaries, who met Catholic missionaries in Peking.

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Following the arrival of the first Protestant missionary in Korea, N. Allen in 1884, South Korea rapidly became one of the most active Christian Mission fields in the world.

The Korean Adventist Church

The first Sabbath keeper in Korea was Hong Yu Han, a disciple of Yi Ik, a prominent pragmatic philosopher (1681-1763). He studied books on the Christian Gospel and tried to live according to that teaching. In 1770, after he came to know the Sabbath, he began to rest on every Seventh day. On the seventh day, he ceased his work and spent a full day in meditation. This was long before the Seventh-day Adventism was born.

The Adventist message was introduced to Korea in 1904 by two Koreans returning from Japan. At that time, many Koreans are immigrating abroad because of political and economic unrest at home.

One day in May of 1904, Lee Eung Hyun was walking along a street in Kobe, Japan. He was waiting while his visa for entry into Hawaii was being processed. Lee was attracted to a sign that read in Chinese characters, “The Seventh-day Sabbath Christ’s Second Coming Church”. Although he was an Anglican, he was interested in this new church. Lee met Hide Kuniya, the Japanese Adventist Evangelist. Lee was deeply impressed by the Adventist truths, such as the Sabbath, the second coming, baptism and the state of the dead.

The following Sabbath, he brought a younger countryman, Son Heung Cho to Kuniya’s meeting place. Their study lasted some days. The day before they leave to Hawaii, the two Korean were convinced that the Adventist message were biblical and they requested baptism. Lee Eung Hyun left for Hawaii but the younger man Song Heung Cho, failing to meet with the immigration regulations was obliged to return to Korea.

After Landing in South Korea, Son Heung Cho went to his province where he gained about 100 interests. He began to spread the Adventist message and soon he won about thirty-five Sabbath Keepers in Pusan. Meanwhile, Cho continued up the west coast to the port of Chinnampo, his home town. There he changed his name to Ki Ban, meaning “the foundation rock” to reflect his new resolution to stand on the rock of Jesus by preaching the Adventist Message. He began to share his newly found truth to his neighbors and friends, after a few weeks he had gathered around thirsty six persons who decided to devote themselves to this new faith.

This is the start of the Adventist Message in the “Land of the Morning calm”. On August 8, 2018, in a meeting in Korea attended by our world leaders, the Adventist leadership met with 4,000 Missionaries and Challenged them to Go Forward in the meeting called International Mission Congress in Goyang, Republic of Korea. The region-wide event has drawn about 4,000 mission-minded church members of all ages to the massive Korea International Exhibition and Convention Center (KINTEX) for four days of training, outreach, and witnessing.

History with a Twist

The 120-minute opening ceremony began with a choreographed review of mission beginnings across the region. The display, which included oratorio-style recitatives, music with traditional

instruments, and special effects, told the story of Seventh-day Adventist pioneers in that part of Asia.

Precisely 130 years ago, in 1888, the first self-supporting missionary, Abram La Rue, arrived in China. He is credited with being the first to bring the Advent message to that nation. Some of the people La Rue trained would later go as missionaries to other Asian nations, including Japan and Korea.

Mission is difficult and a long-term commitment, it was emphasized in an accompanying five-language script displayed on the main screen. “The number of souls won [by La Rue] after eight years in ministry: zero,” said an off-screen narrator. “But he kept persevering, and finally, he was

successful.”

Missionaries Marching On

A parade through the hall to the main stage featured representatives from the various fields, including world church and NSD leaders. Marching leaders and representatives wore traditional outfits, including several different costumes from within the same region. Taiwan Conference (TWC) president Noah Lai explained, “Our outfits are different because we have different tribes, different cultures. We have many challenges to share the gospel.” The TWC territory was officially organized five years ago after being part of a larger church region.

Leading the Hong Kong delegation was China Union Mission president Robert Folkenberg Jr. “As a representative of the Chinese Union, I’d like to offer a warm welcome to every participant,” he said in fluent Chinese. “After this Mission Congress, I hope that whatever you share from this event will help us be together, united.”

Japan Union Conference (JUC) president Matsumi Shimada greeted the audience on behalf of the 311-strong Japanese delegation. “Seven years ago, there was a huge tsunami in Japan,” he said. “In the next four days, we are going to experience a tsunami here — the blessings of the Holy Spirit to go back home and share the message powerfully.”

Greetings and Highlights The 101-member Mongolia Mission delegation provided one of the highlights of the introductory parade. The Mission’s president, Yo Han Kim, shared that exactly 25 years ago, the first Seventh-day Adventist convert was baptized in Mongolia by the then world church president Robert Folkenberg Sr.

To the surprise of the audience, Kim announced, “The first two Adventists and missionaries to the land of Mongolia are here with us tonight.” A second later, two women stepped forward. They were greeted with strong applause.

Hwang Chung Kwang, president of the Korean Union Conference (KUC), which is hosting the congress, also welcomed the audience, as he called on participants to be aware of the importance of the event. “This Mission Congress has to be a stepping stone to share, with God’s blessing, the gospel.”

After the reading of an Official Opening Declaration and a Special Pledge of commitment to mission, NSD president Si Young Kim reminded participants of the reason for the event. “This is a festival to remember how God has led us up to this point, and how He has worked miraculously in the mission field.”

Kwang seconded this statement. “We will be listening to testimonies,” he said. “It is my hope the grace of God may overwhelm us.”

Turning more serious, Kwang then made a special request. “We are just 25 kilometers [16 miles] away from the border with North Korea,” he informed the audience. “Let us keep praying in earnest so that that nation opens its doors to the gospel.”

The meeting ended with missionaries eager to share their knowledge in preaching the message of salvation.

A few weeks ago, we visited Seoul and Incheon in the beautiful country of South Korea. I was impressed how the work of God prospered in the Land of the Morning Calm.

This week, let’s pray for the work in the Koreas.

Romy Halasan

Random photos of Korea from Romy

Gyeongbukgung Palace

Two ladies in Korean attire, with Lucy

Our lunch

Outside a Korean restaurant.

A meeting of the 4000 Missionaries.

In Closing … Announcements | From The Mail Bag | Prayer Requests | Acknowledgment

Meet The Editors |Closing Thoughts

Alumni Announcements

MVCSNAA Announcement

We hope to see all alumni, family, and friends attend our MVCSNAA 2018 Reunion from August 31st to September 2nd at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Those who are staying at the Park Inn Radisson Hotel will receive a 50% discount towards MVCSNAA membership fee at registration. The main event on Saturday includes a breakfast, lunch, and banquet package for $120; for those who are not staying at the resort but want to attend the banquet dinner, a $90 package is available. Don't forget to pack your Disney character costume for the Gala for a chance to win some fun prizes. When you attend this reunion, you will be helping the MVCSNAA project for a state-of-the-art nutrition kitchen laboratory valued at $5,000. Also, eligible expenses may be Tax Deductible through the CEU program. Sunday morning also offers awards for the 5K race, the 3K walk, and the Limping Competition. We are encouraging everyone to join us. We are looking forward to seeing you there! Connie Calumia Calica, PIO MVCSNAA

Sulads Who Are Healthcare Providers?

ATTN NURSES: SULADS USA in collaboration with the MVC School of Nursing Alumni Association of North America is working to put together a presentation about the joys of being part of the SULADS workforce! If you are an MVCSN alumni (whether in the US or anywhere in the world) who happens to be a sulad, please message Judith Teves (Bai Candelaria in Facebook) or Raylene Rodrigo Baumgart. ATTN HEALTHCARE WORKERS AND INTERESTED PARTIES: In addition, if you are a healthcare provider (dentist, doctor, OR tech, medical clerk, nurse, health tech, social worker, psychologist, surgeon, etc.) retired or working, and are interested in potentially being part of the special unit of SULADS USA who will be going on medical missions locally (in the United States) or abroad, please message Joy Caballero-Gadia in Facebook or email her at watermankids at yahoo.com Or if you are just interested in being part of this healthcare team, contact Joy for more info.

Alumni Calendar

When What Where For More Info

2018. Aug31, Sept 1-2

Reunion MVC School of Nursing Alumni in North America

Florida, USA Raylene Baumgart Judith Teves

2018. Aug31- Sept 3

GYC Southwest NEW PineSprings Ranch, CA

https://www.gycsouthwest.org

2018. Dec28-Jan1 GYC 2018 Houston, TX https://gycweb.org/conference/information/

2019. Jul 15-19 Reunion School of Nursing 50th Anniversary Reunion

MVC Campus

Dr. Gladden Flores Davaney Bayeta

2019 Aug 12-17 Int’l Pathfinder Camporee Oshkosh, WI www.camporee.org 2020? TBD Reunion MVC Alumni NEW MVC

Campus

Dr. Gladden Flores

Meet The Editors

This week’s issue of Cyberflashes was by Raylene Rodrigo Baumgart. Next issue will be in two weeks and

will be by Eddie Zamora. Please direct all entries to him or to any of the editors.

NAME: EMAIL ADDRESS:

Eddie Zamora ezamora594 at aol dot com Evelyn Porteza-Tabingo etabingo at gmail dot com Jessie Colegado Cyberflashes at gmail dot com Joy Caballero-Gadia watermankids at yahoo dot com Lily EscaraLare LyLare at Hotmail dot com Melodie Mae Karaan-Inapan melodieinapan at yahoo dot com Raylene Rodrigo-Baumgart raylene.baumgart at gmail dot com Romulo ‘Romy’ Halasan romsnake at gmail dot com

If you wish to subscribe to Cyberflashes, to unsubscribe, or if you changed your email address and want Cyberflashes to be sent to your new address, please send your request via email to any of the editors. We spell out the @ and dot signs in the email addresses to prevent worms, viruses, and robots from harvesting them. If you would like to correspond, simply substitute the correct symbols

Acknowledgement A special thank you to the following who helped make this week’s issue of CyberFlashes:

• Nellie Pelayo-Llaguno, Judith Teves, and Vilma Llanos-Halder for their testimonies.

• Jessie Colegado for chuckles in “Jessie’s Patch of Weeds”,

• The SULADS and Gospel Outreach for the Sulads updates.

• Eddie Zamora & Lyn Tabingo for their help in editing. Joy Caballero-Gadia for the layout

From The Mailbag

Happy 95th Birthday to MVC Pioneer Gerry Hill

from the Henry & Evelyn Tabingo Family,

the CyberFlashes Team, and all the MVCians far and near

From Joy Caballero-Gadia RE: SULADS Orphanage Hello – I just wanted to correct something I wrote two issues ago about the Orphanage at MVC. We all thought it belonged to the SULADS organization because they were right next door to the SULADS headquarters at MVC and it seemed to be an integral part of the sulads family. I have since learned that and has confirmed with MVC President Gladden Flores and SULADS CEO Ephraim Pitogo that the Orphanage is not part of the SULAD organization. It belongs to MVC and was created because of a great need. I apologize for the confusion. By the way, there is talk about possibly closing the orphanage because of the absence of funding. MVC has not ironed out the logistics of what to do but leadership is hoping that the kids will get “adopted” into homes of MVC faculty and staff … We’re keeping an ear open! God will provide.

From Joy Caballero-Gadia RE: SULADS Thailand Two weeks ago, we learned that because of the lack of public transportation in the remote hills where our sulads in Thailand and Laos serve, our sulads have to bicycle to get around their 30-40 mile radius territory making it very difficult to get around quickly to the villagers who need them. SULADS Thailand are not merely mission school teachers. They are trained to provide home-remedy treatments amongst the tribe as this is the only healthcare available in those remote areas. A used motorcycle in good condition costs about US$300. If you would like to contribute to help, message or email me. watermankids at yahoo dot com. Or Joy Caballero-Gadia in Facebook.

Closing Thoughts- “Beautiful Feet” By the Editor

omebody did a survey once in Facebook asking which part of our body we do not like. A lot of people answered that they do not like their noses, their hair, their eyes and others. Without hesitation, I wrote, “I hate my feet!”

My feet have taken me to so many beautiful places all over the world. Way back from late ‘90s I used to play competitive tennis and so my feet have been overused if not overworked. But as a tennis player, it was necessary for me to wear the best supportive playing shoes. I never hesitated to spend extra bucks for comfort and cushioning. But on Sabbath and on many social functions I have to attend, I usually resort to wearing those attractive, glitzy high heels. Now as a sixty-two-year-old, my feet are overtired, blistered from playing and running, calloused from walking through all my European tours and disfigured from all the past stilettos I used to wear. They are often extremely dry and if you go to my bathroom you will be amazed at all the collection of foot scrubs, foot oils and lotion I have bought all these years. Much as I hated my feet, I try to really take good care of them.

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This past spring, I spent three weeks with my daughter Kristina touring beautiful Italy and Croatia. We flew from Amsterdam to Rome, and from there we started our journey around this beautiful city and its historical sites, then took the train to Naples and toured through the Amalfi Coast visiting Positano, Ravello, Capri, Amalfi Sorrento and all the beautiful cities and villages. The panoramic views I saw were mesmerizing and my heat was full of joy. But the hundreds of steep pathways and hills to meander, my feet suffered a lot. There were moments when I can hardly walk so I had to take several breaks pretending to travel companions my desire for a cappuccino. A week after arrival from my vacation, I went see my favorite foot doctor and came home with a support/immobilizer on my right foot due to severe stress fracture. To my disdain, I had to wear it for six long weeks. We know your hearts needs lots of TLC. Well, our feet do, too. After all, they are the workhorses of your body, taking about 5,000 steps a day. That’s 2.5 miles! Not to mention that your feet have to bear the weight of our bodies every step of the way. In addition, we cram them into shoes and stand on them for long periods of time. Those hard-working feet deserve a little more attention than you’re probably giving them. Just as we could not go a day without brushing our teeth, we should not go a day without taking care of our feet. I went through the web and found a few important tips to know on how we can have beautiful healthy feet: Check them daily for cuts, sores, swelling, and infected toenails. • Give them a good cleaning in warm water, (I love Epsom salts) but do not forget to dry them

thoroughly. Fungal organisms love moisture, so depriving them of any wetness will make it more difficult for them to thrive. “Be sure to dry well between each individual toe,” says Dr. Kurtz. “Any excess moisture between the toes can create a great environment for a fungal infection to begin.”

• Moisturize them every day with lotion, cream, or petroleum jelly. Don’t put moisturizer

between your toes. You want to keep the skin there dry to prevent infection.

• Rotate your shoes so you’re not wearing the same pair every day.

• Trim your toenails straight across with a nail clipper. Cut toenails properly.

• Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes, especially stilettos. Your shoes shouldn’t hurt your feet.

• Skip the flip-flops and flats. They don’t provide enough arch support. So since then, I have been wearing only good support shoes (mostly flats). Wearing proper walking shoes is a fundamental element in maintaining the correct walking technique, as well as preventing injury. Shoes are tools. Without the correct tools, we are likely to hurt ourselves, making us more prone to suffer further and more severe injuries in the future. Selecting the right shoe for our feet type may be a basic concept to some, yet walkers often overlook this simple step, and as a result, suffer from preventable injuries.

• Most importantly, avoid sharing footgear. You can get fungal infections by wearing other

peoples’ shoes, as well as socks worn by another person. This includes rentals. Always wear your own footgear to help keep your feet healthy.

• Shop for shoes at the end of the day to compensate for foot swelling that occurs later in the day, and wear the same type of socks or hosiery you’ll be wearing with the shoes. Choose a broad, rounded shoe with plenty of room for your toes and a wide, stable heel. Avoid pointy shoes, which can cramp your toes and cause ingrown toenails and calluses.

• We ought to take care of our feet. God gave us our feet for a purpose. We are supposed to walk with Him daily and to also walk for Him. Wherever we go, we are supposed to show others how it is to have Jesus Christ in our lives through our actions. We are supposed to go walk to places where we can represent Him always.

I am reminded of a very simple hymn we used to sing in Sabbath School as little children: “Oh be careful little feet were you go. Oh be careful little feet where you go;

For the Father above watches you with His love, Oh be careful little feet where you go”.