Today’s Filipino youth need somebody with whom they can share their struggles. TWR’s Absolutely 24/7 program aims to help them hear the gospel in a relevant way and get them involved in a local church.
TWR-Philippines’ original program Absolutely 24/7, currently airing in 41 locations across the country, is a weekend radio show that challenges listeners to live for Christ 24 hours a day, seven days a week: absolutely 24/7! This year, listener response has increased by 400 percent, with an average of 800 text messages from listeners received per month. In August, TWR-Philippines also received 13 listener e-mails via its Friendster account. As a result, staff say they’ve been inspired even more to produce quality programs.
One young woman sent a series of text messages. “I feel that my life has no meaning and [is] worthless,” she wrote. “I think that people won’t like me. I am ugly and I really don’t belong in our society. I don’t have the right to live. I always feel that nobody loves me and that everyone hated me so much!” Her desperation continued: “My life is empty; it seems that I am still looking for something that is missing in my life!” TWR’s program counselor talked with her over the phone and encouraged her to trust in God.
In recent celebration of the program’s 100th episode, the hosts held a texting “Name That Song” game. Winners received radio pens, radio lights, a personalized Absolutely 24/7 CD, postcard, and follow-up material.
Absolutely 24/7 is not only making an impact on the Filipino community, but also on radio stations. DJ Kool of Hot FM called the TWR office in August and excitedly shared how the program has helped boost the listening rate of the station. “The program [meets] the needs of the young people,” he said, adding that the topics were interesting and filled with sound information. He said listeners visited the station to inquire about TWR programs Absolutely 24/7 and Mumunting Kutitap, and they also shared how the programs have had a great impact on their lives.
Prayer Requests
- Pray for the youth and children’s ministry team (Peter, Crisanto and Wendy) and the hosts of Absolutely 24/7, PJ and Charles.
- Pray that God would send potential donors and sponsors for TWR-Philippines’ fundraising campaign.
- Pray for all the listeners of Absolutely 24/7 and that God would continue to use the program to reach lost souls.
- Pray that God will lead provide youth coordinators who can follow up with TWR’s listeners.