Hello from the Philippines! My name is Gabriella Cacanindin and I am a Senior Business major from Biola University, utilizing my skills this summer as an intern for Monsoon. I am a Filipina-American aka a “FilAm.” I visited the Philippines for the first time in January 2009. The food captured my belly, but the people captured my heart. Since the day I left, I have been asking God to send me back, but not for a simple vacation..and here I am!

When you think of the word “missions,” the first thought that comes to mind is probably not someone working in an office frome 9-5. Well, I am proud to say that that is exactly what I am doing. (8-5 to be precise!) Media within missions is in high demand. Monsoon states,

“Whether seeking to generate interest in a cause, recruit help, sell products or simply make itself known, every organization needs to begin with a solid brand and a strategic media plan. Yet these two elements are often the most overlooked steps in an organization’s development and ministry. Monsoon seeks to assist Wycliffe and partner offices in the area with branding and marketing plans to help them maximize the impact they have on their audiences as they achieve their corporate goals. “

Those who have a heart for media can be missionaries too!

Joey, Pastor Danny, Bea, Ate Heidi, Gabriella

Alongside with serving Monsoon, I have also been taking time to speak at local churches. I was asked to speak about missions at Bread for the World Christian Church. I am slowly learning that the Gospel is not a selfish message. I cannot afford to keep the good news to myself! A common verse used when teaching about missions is Matthew 28:18 and Matthew 24:14, which says, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Essentially, missions ushers in the second coming of Christ!

I have also had the opportunity to see the end process of Bible translation. Click here for a sneak peak! During the last week of July, many people will gather in Davao, Philippines for a New Testament dedication. One team is in the screening process, which entails tediously checking each Bible to make sure they are perfect before they are released to the people group in Davao. My orientation guide, Mrs. Edna, has spent this last week telling me missionary stories, Filipino history, and has even showed me the collection of Bibles that have been completed here in the Philippines since the 1950s.

I cannot imagine a day without the Bible, yet there are millions that go without God’s Word daily. The dire need has provoked me into both intercession and action. The more I learn makes me realize how much I don’t know. The world is much bigger than I perceive, but so is God. So in my brokenness and my failures, I am 7,000 miles away from the place I call home to serve the Jesus I love. Please continue to pray for the Asia Pacific and for the other organizations, staff members, and interns serving the Lord this summer.