June 20, 2009; Day 1: Kalibo, Aklan Tour Begins in Manila

Today was our first full day with everyone in country. Josh, James and Elliot had been here since the start of the summer, Michael and Quinn arrived early Wednesday morning and Marcus and Landon arrived on Friday night. Elliot is going to meet us in Kalibo tomorrow. He is spending some time at the beach with his family before they go back to China to continue their ministry there. Elliot was a part of the first trip so we allowed him to miss the orientation and join us on location.

In orientation we talked about a number of things: goals for the team, goals for the individual players, Philippine Culture and Philippine demographics. We also talked about the style of basketball here, and some things to remember in the heat of the game. It was interesting to learn that the game was so physical and fast. They also play international rules, which have some differences to the rules we play in the states.

We originally did not have any games schedules, but someone contacted Josh about playing against one of the champion teams from a local subdivision. Brookside is where a lot of missionary families live and so there is a lot of outreach going on there.

The game started at 2:30, and it was an exciting contest. Despite some of the guys dealing with traveler's legs We were able to pull away early and led at half, but it was far from over. During halftime, Josh talked to the opposing team and the spectators about his relationship with Jesus. He encouraged them to read the tracts that we handed out and to talk to one of us or someone in the community if they had any questions. After we started the second half, the other team pulled themselves back into the game with some tough play and some stellar shooting. Towards the end, we traded the lead, but thanks to some good free throw shooting we were able to pull out the lead.

After the game, the Brooksided Residents Association invited us to join them for a merienda (snack). It was nice to see some of the guys try rice cake and pancit (noodles with vegetables and meat, often liver). We had a good time of fellowship with the organizers and the opposing team.

After the game we went back to the place we stayed to clean up and get ready for dinner. We went into the city to eat at one of Josh's favorite restaurants. It is called King Kebab, and they serve great Persian food. It was a nice treat and when we were done we headed back to our place to get some rest.

Please remember to keep the people in Brookside Subdivision in your prayers. The players and the spectators who heard the Gospel, as well as the many people who continue to minister to them.