In February 2005 the Bartons traveled to the Philippines. This was Mike’s third visit to the country and a follow-up to their visit in December 2002.

The primary purpose of the trip was to conduct three leadership conferences on the island of Mindanao. These were in association with two of Searchlight’s affiliates in the Philippines: Jesus for All Nations (a group of indigenous churches) and Love Asia Mission Partners (LAMP), a Philippine missions organisation that is reaching out to all parts of Asia.

Herbert "Bing" and Anne Gadian, Founder/President of Jesus for all Nations

LAMP is involved in several aspects of ministry throughout Asia. Much of their work is in countries that are closed to the gospel. Searchlight hopes to help LAMP wherever possible.

The conferences were held in Cagayan de Oro City, Valencia, and Butuaan. These conferences were for pastors and church leaders from across the island of Mindanao.

These leaders are involved in children’s outreach, village evangelism, ministry to unreached tribes, feeding programmes, radio and television outreach, ministry to ships and sailors, and numerous other activities.

The Bartons with Pastor Lorens Oalican preparing to go on television in Butuaan, Philippines.

While there, the Bartons were able to visit several churches and different outreach ministries of the two organisations. They were also able to minister on radio and television programmes that are being operated by affiliates of LAMP. They were able to see the work that is being done, and to explore how Searchlight can be of help to the churches in the Philippines.

Because of the poverty in many parts of the islands, there is a large emphasis on meeting practical needs through food programmes, providing water wells, and nutritional help. Through the help of supporters, Searchlight occasionally assists in these vital activities when we are able.

One of the many LAMP village outreaches that the Bartons were able to visit during their trip.

The English edition of "Light for Life" is already going to many people in the Philippines, but Searchlight is hoping to develop translations in Cebuano and Tagalog-the two primary Philippines dialects.

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» read more about Searchlight's affiliates in the Philippines

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