John has been attending WMB since he was a wee baby. Growing up in a loving and encouraging community, he was raised to believe that serving those in need was a very important purpose in life. Amidst the stress of his years at the University of Waterloo, he decided that he needed to take some time to travel and to serve the poor. He went to Manila, Philippines for three weeks - feeding street children, helping youth struggling with addictions, and ministering to street gangs. The next year, John returned for two months to continue serving these communitites. John's life was radically changed by serving those in poverty and he decided that this was something he could do for the long-term.

Now, after completing teacher's college at the University of Toronto, he is returning to the Philippines as a "missionary/teacher". Specifically, he'll be running programs that serve both the basic and educational needs of children living in slums and squatter communities. This includes feeding children, supporting their health and sanitation needs, and teaching literacy programs. Many children in these areas aren't receiving any formal education. John will strive to best meet their unique educational needs and will provide skills that will aid them in finding future employment.

"Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows." Isaiah 1:17

If you would like to be a part of this story, please visit John's website.