Preschools and Churchplanting in Manila

Corrie De Boer

 I began my quest in 1971 and I felt that God was calling me to work with urban poor. 1975 was a part of Viv’s discipleship team. For the past 30 years I have been working in Manila. I have had 4 levels of engagement- first is grass root movement- starting pre-schools, drug addict help, etc.  Husband decided that preschool is an important way to reach the urban poor. So we have been working with various org. to do this such as Jun Paragus and also the Four squares ministry. 

Second level of engagement is setting up city ministries trying to provide an atmosphere for mutual friendship and networking between Catholics and Protestants.  Our home is used as the center for this.

The third level is in theological education- my husband and I are involved in Asian Theology Seminary.  3 years ago we started the D. of ministry for transformational leadership to train leaders on holism and trans. Leadership partnering with a university in Seattle.

The fourth level is developed grade services for testing. 

Chona

In 1983 came to know the Lord, and after that she only had one dream, and that was to become a pastor.  But she was in a church, which did not allow that and then she realized that she was called to be a pastor to the children.

1.      She usually works with poor experts in developing the curriculum.  Biblical principles are integrated in different academic. Since preschool is their first place away from home, they try to provide a relaxed environment.

2.      They also have training programs for teachers.

3.      Also encourage their teachers to have coaching teams.

4.      We are developing different types of books for pre-schoolers.  Literature based approach.  Moses would like to eat food with letter M (to introduce the letters)

5.      The families open their homes with open arms.  They make it easier to introduce the parents to teachers.

6.      We have guidance services for kids and teachers.

7.      Give scholarships to the serving teachers.

8.      Networking (because it is the expertise of her boss).  We link our churches and school to people who are already doing that.  

© Viv Grigg & Urban Leadership Foundationand other materials © by various contributors & Urban Leadership Foundation,  for The Encarnacao Training Commission.  Last modified: July 2010