Over the past years MMP has been able to partner with Azusa Pacific University’s Global Studies department. Azusa Pacific University (APU) is located in Southern California, USA. This Christian university offers a unique major that encourages students to be involved in community, immerse in cross-cultural settings, and to live transformed lives within the contexts they serve. The Global Studies major is multidisciplinary and requires participation in domestic and international settings. For their international work the students will spend an extended period of time to a developing country for their Global Learning Term (GLT). GLT requires students to live with nationals, intern with a non-governmental organization, and complete field study projects.

MMP has been a key contact for Global Studies preparing for GLT in the Philippines. The Philippines is a great country for students to see everything they have learned from their textbooks come to life. From history, culture, climate and geography, urban and rural settings, to daily life – the Philippines is a great classroom for GLT students. MMP has helped set up homestays with missionaries living in areas in the Philippines such as Payatas and Tatalon. Students are able to experience life as the masses in the Philippines live every day. Executive Director, Amando “Dong” Reyes has functioned as the students’ City Facilitator. Dong has lined up home stays, used his resources and networks within the Philippines to set up potential internships, and helps acquaint students into Filipino culture.

The partnership between MMP and APU’s Global Learning Term is an opportunity to journey with other brothers and sisters who believe in compassionate service. GLT students are able to learn from MMP as an organization, and witness the heart of Jesus through meeting physical and spiritual needs in urban poor communities. Students have shared that their partnership with MMP has provided beneficial exposure and experiences for their studies, and genuine hospitality.