Story number 1 for 26 Nov 2001

(Philippines) — Topping the news, it’s election day in the Southern Philippines, and in the week leading up to it, fighting has broken out once again. OMF International’s Jon Fuller says there are many factions Philippine authorities have to contend with. Some, like the Abu Sayyef, are motivated by money. However: “There is a larger ideological struggle that’s been going on for hundreds of years between Christians and Muslims in the Philippines. That’s more represented by the MNLF and the MILF, both of which have recently entered into peace agreements with the Philippine national government. That’s reduced some of the pressure on our people.” But recent reports show the MNLF is behind the latest violence. Fuller dismisses the suggestion that their workers should find a different area in which to minister. “Danger is a part of missions, and often our most effective ministry, and where God’s spirit is most apparent, is in times of stress and risk. The light shines brightest in the dark corners of the world.”