Building opportunity in the Phillipines

Recently, Suncoast Christian College staff were privileged to hear from ex-staff member Christine Carby during one of our daily devotions. Christine shared with us the work she is doing on the small Philippine island of Siargao.

Christine worked at Suncoast Christian College from 2007-2014 as a much-loved teacher of high school science and mathematics. In 2015, along with her husband John and two young daughters, Chilli and Asha, she moved to the Philippines to carry the mission of Christ-centred education to the small island of Siargao.

Christine’s history with the Philippines involved spending a few of her childhood years living and attending school there with her missionary parents. In 2011, she returned with husband John and the possibility of moving to Siargao was presented by some long-term friends – a proposition which, at the time, seemed far-fetched given that they were expecting their first child. Two years later they visited again, only for the same opportunity to again knock on their door.

Having moved in 2015 – 9 weeks after the birth of their second daughter – Christine’s school ‘Nissi Academy General Luna’ has now completed two full school years. For the second consecutive year, it is expected to double the size of its student body going into its third year of operation in June 2017.

Christine speaks openly about the incredible provisions that God has already made in guiding her family throughout the journey. From unexpected and generous donations by friendly strangers in a time of need to the protection of her family’s health with the closest hospital 8 hours away, God’s peace has been with them every step of the way.

Christine continues to work towards growth for the school with plans to continue adding classrooms and different year levels to accommodate the growing student body. With a goal to grow the school to cater from P-12 and opportunities readily available to contribute further to the basic needs of the community, the future is both busy and bright.

Prayers for Christine’s family and the school are much appreciated and financial support can also be given via https://www.gofundme.com/philippineschool or deposited to the bank account shown below (preferable). Educational resources of any kind are also greatly appreciated if you would like to donate in this way please contact the Suncoast Christian College on 5451 3600 for further information on how to send them to Siargao.