What have I done to deserve to be here (in CMSP)? This is a question I asked myself very often when I was still staying at the children’s village. I do not know the exact answer. I just know that it’s the best thing that could have happened to me and I thank God that he made all of it possible.

I rarely felt so comfortable and welcome all my life, yet the CMSP children and staff welcomed me with open arms from day one. Through the daily hospitality and warmth of the staff, I learned more about what it means to be a Christian.

God has blessed this very special place with wonderful and unique children – and He couldn’t have made the choice better. From day one, I was thrilled by their openness and the very special talents with which each individual has been blessed by the Lord. I was able to learn so much from the children. And by that, I mean not only how to wash my clothes and eat with my hands. The children share everything with each other and thank God for everything they have, whether big or small, whether few or plenty.

No matter how much I try to give my time, talents, and treasure to the children, they will never be enough to give back what I got from them. Their smiles, hugs, warmth, affection, and love letters, I can ever repay. The children give unconditional love and an incredible amount of strength. Every moment with them is so precious, I can´t remember the last time I laughed that much and had so much fun.

Each child is special and I love everything about them. I will always remember their stories and how each still moves me to tears. It was very difficult to say goodbye. I did not want to believe that my six-month stay was already over. As a volunteer in CMSP, I was able to experience God’s, great unconditional love. Thank you for this wonderfully blessed time in the Philippines. It couldn´t have been better. To the children of CMSP, you will always play a huge role in my life and I will never forget the great time and all the memories we made. Thank you so much for everything.

Lena Polten, German national and a former volunteer in CMSP’s children’s village