Members of the Kaibigang Maaasahan Multi-purpose Cooperative (KMMC) and staff of the Kaibigan Ministry Inc. (KMI) had a blessed time of worshiping, praying together, and sharing testimonies and life stories during a recent retreat. A majority of the cooperative members are transformed former street dwellers.
The retreat, which had the theme Out of Darkness based on Colossians 11:20, was held at the Pranjetto Hills Resort in Tanay, Rizal on August 31 - September 2, 2015. It was the first event of its kind for the two ministries.
Both the KMMC and KMI are organizations of the Center for Community (CCT) Group of Ministries. KMI ministers to street dwellers through such programs as feeding, spiritual development, skills training, and job placement. KMMC is the first cooperative in the Philippines whose members are current and former street dwellers. It is also joined by CCT construction workers and by staff of the CCT Tagaytay Retreat and Training Center. KMMC is engaged in income-generating projects such as construction, farming, printing, janitorial work, general housekeeping and messenger services.
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| Attendees kneel in prayer during the retreat's first evening. |
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| A former street dweller worships the Lord. |
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| Pastor Doy Castillo of Bread from Heaven Christian Fellowship speaks on stepping out of darkness. |
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| Christian businessman Dick Ang speaks on staying in the light after one has stepped out of the darkness. |
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| Ruth Callanta, president and founder of CCT, acknowledges retreat staff and speakers. Earlier, she spoke on God's plan for humanity. |
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| Here and next two photos: breakout sessions for small group sharing. |
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| Here and in next photo: former street dwellers share testimonies of how the Lord transformed their lives. |
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| Mealtime! |
Photos: Jerome Estarez
