Andrew and Karen spent twelve years in Manila, the Philippines - from 1987 to 1998 - where they planted Harvesters Christian Fellowship. HCF is now a movement of six congregations which serve the business community, families in Manila’s inner city, and a rural community of farmers.
We’ve learned so much from our Filipino brothers and sisters who often do so much with so little.
Beginning with a Bible study in an animation study, HCF ministered to young artists and their families. Shortly afterward it launched outreaches to several university campuses. Since its founding HCF has been a vibrant young church of creative professionals. Moved by the desperate need of families who live in Manila’s slums, HCF began outreaches to families who live along the railroad tracks that pass through the center of Manila. These shanty towns are concentrations of human suffering. Beginning in a single shanty, HCF developed a growing congregation which in turn has planted other daughter churches. The inner city congregation, HCF Manila, has a weekly outreach to Manila City Jail and to families who live in the city’s largest cemetery. It founded a pre-school, and fixes a warm breakfast for the kids every day.
Recently HCF completed a new church building for its congregation in Tondo. This congregation serves families who live near the railroad tracks that pass through the densely packed neighborhood. The new building will serve as a multi-purpose facility for HCF’s worship, pre-school, and feeding program.
Andrew and Karen travel regularly to the Philippines as they continue to listen to and mentor the leaders of HCF. Andrew and Karen’s ministry supports the national pastors and helps fund their feeding program, school, and other outreaches.
Photo from the 30th Anniversary of Harvester’s Christian Fellowship