Philippines

Cobbie and Dessa Palm 

The United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP) was established in 1948 and is a union of several early Protestant churches that were in mission in the Philippines. Cobbie serves the church as a mission facilitator. He leads seminars for local church pastors throughout the Philippines, enhancing their skills in church development and revitalization. He also develops curriculum and trains churches in peace and reconciliation for the Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform. Dessa coordinates the UCCP’s Theater for Evangelism and Advocacy, which seeks to train church workers and members to creatively communicate the gospel and bear witness to the transformative role of a caring and compassionate church. The Palms also work with the Young Adult Volunteer program in the Philippines. You can read more about their ministry on their profile page, which can be found here.  

You can read more about their ministry on their profile page, which can be found here.

Cathy Chang and Juan Lopez 

From their home base in Manila, Philippines, Cathy Chang and Juan Lopez will help global partners address issues of migration and human trafficking. The UN’s International Labor Organization estimates 21 million people are victims of coerced labor and/or forced sexual exploitation. While human trafficking is a worldwide problem, countries in Asia are increasingly vulnerable. Cathy and Juan will work with Asian churches and non-governmental organizations to help coordinate efforts related to the scourge of modern-day slavery. They will also resource various programs of the Presbyterian Mission Agency and US congregations concerned about the issue.

You can read more about their ministry on their profile page, which can be found here.