Growing up in an economically disadvantaged community in Cavite, south of Manila, Catherine faced challenges that could easily have prevented her from completing her studies.
She had come to know Jesus and was baptised through the work of Christ Reaching Asia Mission (CRAM), a ministry partner of International Christian College of Manila (ICCM), which partners with Global Mission Partners. Later, she began studying at ICCM, where students are equipped for Christian ministry through a government-accredited Bachelor in Theology.
At times, financial hardship made continuing her studies difficult. ICCM described her as a positive, focused and resilient student, but poverty and other challenges sometimes left her discouraged about whether she could continue.
Through sponsorship from CRAM, she was able to persevere with her studies.
In May this year, she graduated, joining 13 other students at ICCM’s 23rd graduation exercises. For a student who had faced uncertainty about whether she would be able to finish, graduation marked an important milestone.
Her story did not end there.
She is now serving as a local missionary worker with CRAM in the same community where she grew up.
Her journey reflects ICCM’s wider approach. Students from across the Philippines, many from families facing financial hardship, are equipped through theological education and hands-on ministry, serving in local churches as children’s ministry teachers, preachers, evangelism workers and worship leaders. Through learning by doing, they are prepared to lead and serve their own communities.
During school breaks, students also take part in evangelism as a practical part of their studies, putting what they have learned into practice in local communities.
ICCM seeks to equip students not only with theological education, but to become ministry and community leaders who can serve others.
For this graduate, that process has come full circle. She first encountered Jesus through the work of CRAM, received support that helped her complete her studies, and is now serving with the same ministry in the community where she grew up.
It is a picture of how investment in local leaders can continue beyond graduation, as those who have been equipped go on to serve others in their own communities.
*Name changed for privacy