In December, a team travelled to the Philippines to help with reconstruction efforts after Typhoon Tino left deep scars in the Barangonan where Konrad and Betty Binder served as missionaries. Those weeks were intense, challenging, and at the same time very blessed.
Some houses were completely destroyed, while in other places only the outlines could be seen in the ground. Many families had stored their belongings under plastic tarps or were even living in them. The roof of the church was badly damaged, and the steel structure was bent by the force of the wind. Konrad and Betty’s house had also been severely affected.
With their practical skills and experience, the team of six men, made a decisive contribution to making this project possible. They began work in the church, where they; removed the old roof, cleaned and prepared the beams, painted and re-rooved. They worked on Konrad and Betty’s house too. In addition to the roof damage, several load-bearing beams had been weakened by termites and had to be replaced.
The conditions were challenging heat, high humidity, and jet lag. In addition, another storm was forecast. And yet they experienced God’s protection in everything. However, it was the fellowship with their brothers and sisters in Christ that made this time special. Despite their own losses and great uncertainty, everyone pitched in, helped each other, and worked with remarkable perseverance.
Thank you for contributing to this project through prayer. The storm had destroyed much material property and at the same time torn down invisible interpersonal walls that had grown over many years between the two main ethnic groups who differ in language and culture. In their distress, both groups stood side by side working together to rebuild the church building, planning together, carrying materials, covering roofs, and praying together.
Konrad and Betty are also involved in many ministries and events in Germany where they serve the Lord. They consider it a privilege to be involved in informing, encouraging, and inviting people to join the mission. They have several trips planned this year including the Philippines.
They thank the Lord for:
• Protection during the journey, despite delays and detours
• Timely transportation and materials arriving at the right time
• Dry weather despite storm warnings
• Completion of work on the church building and their house in the Philippines
• Hard-working fellow believers and a strong church community on site
• Growing unity
• Open doors for Gospel outreach and mission conferences in Germany
Pray with them for:
• The families rebuilding their homes, especially for stable roofs
• Steadfastness and spiritual growth in the church
• Unity among the believers and that it will remain and continue to mature
• Open hearts and clear decisions at events in Germany
• Travels this year, and plans to visit the Philippines in June
Thank you for your prayers.