Did you know that at Filipino gatherings, there’s always that last piece of food on the plate that no one wants to take? We call it the “piece of shame” or hiya. It’s not that no one wants it — everyone just feels it would be selfish to take the last piece of food. So instead, they leave it for someone else.

Could that simple cultural moment reflect the heart of Jesus?

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3–4

That’s exactly what happens when we leave that last piece. It may seem small, but it’s a way of putting others first.

Jesus did that too — but in the most powerful way. He didn’t just give up a bite of food — he gave up his life. Jesus’ love is sacrificial. It gives, even when it costs something. And when we choose to be generous or put others first — yes, even with something as small as food — we’re reflecting a little bit of him.

So, next time you see that last piece of food, think of Jesus. Let it remind you to be someone who lives with humility, generosity, and love — not just at the dinner table, but in everything.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you that even with this simple Filipino custom of hiya, we are reminded of your sacrificial and unconditional love for us. May we reflect more of your humility and generosity to others in our everyday lives. Amen.

By Jessica Joy Pamor, GC Pili Youth Leader
Bicol, Philippines

Kingdom Living looks like loving your neighborhood by putting down roots. It looks like displaying your commitment to your neighbors’ flourishing, serving their children over the long haul, year after year. Read below the stories of GCI congregations that are building lasting relationships with the young people in their communities.

Jacksonville, Florida, US

The Jacksonville congregation hosted its annual neighborhood youth camp, known as “Grace Camp 2025,” June 11–14.

Camp was attended by 35 youth and 20 adult staff. More than half of the participants were neighbors from the homes near our church building. We held daily chapel with a curriculum entitled “God’s Amazing Grace Changes Everything.” The four chapel lessons were: Grace changes …

• • • Who you are
    • What you love most
    • How you live
    • Your eternal future

We provided three meals a day, outdoor sports, arts and crafts, a dance, skits and talent presentations, water balloon contests, a block party, and an inspirational movie with discussion. We also enjoyed outings to a U.S. Navy destroyer ship and museum and to Jekyll Island, G.A. Activities on Jekyll Island included a dolphin boat tour and visits to a water park, a pier, beach, and picnic areas.

The weather was favorable, and everyone enjoyed a safe, fun, and inspirational time together. Watch our short video of Grace Camp 2025 here.

By Marty Davey, Pastor
Jacksonville, Florida, US

Pasadena, California, US

GC Pasadena had a very successful day camp last Sunday. All our members were involved in inviting and praying for campers. Seventeen campers attended with 12 volunteers helping.

Our camp ran from 9 am–5 pm with lots of food for everyone. Our theme was “God Created Science,” and we offered many interesting science activities. We gave the campers gifts and certificates of attendance after our worship service. Our normal Sunday format was adjusted for the campers.

One mother commented, “I like your church, and I haven’t attended any for a long time. I will attend your church.” Another mother, who we met through our food distribution, came with her two children.

Depending on our budget, we are planning to do this twice a year. Please continue to pray that these kids with parents will all come to believe that they are included in the life and love of our triune God. You can see more pictures at our website, although they cannot capture the joy everyone felt during the camp.  I wish you all could have witnessed it yourself.

To God be the glory. All praises belong to him.

By Angie Tabin, Pastor
Pasadena, California, US

Richardson, Texas, US

Thirty-one children enjoyed summer fun and learning life skills at Richardson Neighborhood Skills Camp (RNSC), “Wild Skills,” July 7–9. Twenty-six volunteers, including Grace Communion Richardson members and adult leaders from the congregation’s American Heritage Girls Troop, shared practical, artistic, and relational skills with campers. It was a friendly, high-energy atmosphere from 10 am–4 pm each day.

RNSC provides space for adults to share their hearts, skills, abilities, and talents with neighborhood children in a cross-generational, relationship-building environment. We pointed to Jesus within our four basic guidelines:

• • • Love God
    • Love Others
    • Have Fun
    • Be Safe

In this third year of RNSC, skills included: first aid, robotics, soldering, sign language, graphic design, videography, bicycle and auto care, hospitality, and party planning. Using song and dance, our camp also featured the relational skills of teamwork, helpfulness, encouragement, perseverance, accountability, and courage.

Overwhelmingly positive feedback from volunteers, parents, and children has already created excitement for next year when RNSC is expected to increase the number of children served and further our neighborhood focus.

By Christine Ojih, Camp Director
Richardson, Texas, US

Citizens of God’s kingdom understand that the gospel is for everyone — not just adults. We are compelled by God’s love to disciple the young people near us. Neighborhood camps are a wonderful opportunity for building friendships and discipleship. See below for resources for day camps.

Hosting a neighborhood camp is a powerful way for churches to embody and share the love of Christ with their neighbors. These camps create opportunities for children and families to experience the joy of community, engage with the gospel in tangible ways, and build lasting relationships. Whether your church is looking to start a new engagement or enhance an existing program, past camp curricula can serve as valuable resources to guide and inspire your efforts.

2011 Living Loved

2012 Rooted

2013 It’s Time!

2014 Super Hero

2015 Epic Story

2016 Celebrate the Grip

2017 The Journey

There are also many publishing groups that offer digital curriculum packages yearly. Here are a few that may spark some ideas:

Sparkhouse in the Summer | Sparkhouse

VBS – Vacation Bible School | Curriculum Programs & Kits | Group

Store – GO! Curriculum

Let’s engage our neighborhoods with purpose and watch God transform lives through these connections!