Werner & Karin Thelen — Missionary Update

Missionary Report

Field Ministry Update

Tondo Ministry

Werner & Karin Thelen

Philippines

Years in Ministry

Philippines

Location

Tondo Ministry

Focus Area

Calling & Mission

To faithfully serve, disciple, and empower individuals and communities to grow in Christ, live with purpose, and reflect God's love in everyday life.

About Our Work

A dedicated and compassionate servant leader deeply committed to mentoring young people, building meaningful relationships, and sharing hope through faith-driven community outreach in the urban neighborhoods of Manila.

How God Called Me

In 2018 the Lord called us very impressively to the Philippines. 7 children were clinging to Werner's body in the slums of Manila, crying Father, Father help us! Children were sitting on the ground, one was pulling on Karin's little finger. We had seen both situations in our mind's eye 6 months earlier.

God literally drew us into the mission to Kids International where we work for the poorest of the poor. We put our trust and all hope in the Lord in our work, but also believe that it is very important to support education and feed the hungry. It is close to our hearts to help those in need to have a better future.

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Our approach

You are seen! You are held! You are loved!

In Manila's poor neighborhoods, many people suffer not only from hunger and disease, but also from deep emotional pain. Loneliness, abuse, rejection, and a lack of prospects leave their mark on the soul. We accompany these people with time, open hearts, and genuine conversation. In community, in worship, through Bible study and prayer, many experience inner comfort, new hope, and the healing love of God.

A Turning Point

Lost children's hearts need help

Those who live in extreme poverty often bear invisible wounds: children grow up without security, many young people struggle with depression, anger, or addiction, and adults suffer from trauma with no one to listen to them. Mental distress usually goes untreated—there is a lack of support, acceptance, and people who can offer hope.

In many poor neighborhoods, there is no psychological care or therapy available.

Praise and prayer often bring more healing than words—they open closed hearts.

Click picture for more description

Community Outreach

Sharing hope and building relationships in the neighborhoods of Manila through weekly visits, food drives, and after-school programs.

Feeding the poor after bible study

Medical day in Tondo

Food drive day

Youth Discipleship

Walking alongside the next generation through Bible studies, mentoring, and life skills training.

Bible study group

Mentoring session

Kids ministry