Cristine “Tintin” Carnate-Atrero dreams of conquering Olongapo City, Philippines, for Christ. As Administrative Pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church, she leads the church, and its five daughter churches, to discipleship and community outreach. Their goal is to go where the people are, whether in schools, on the streets, in churches, college campuses, or jails.
“We will minister to the least, lost and last,” Tintin said. “To the abused, marginalized and oppressed.”
Youth are Tintin’s passion and joy. As the chaplain at Olongapo Wesley School, she plans daily prayer, chapel services, retreats, Bible studies and parenting workshops. One of her favorite ministries is Youth Hotline that connects youth in high school and college to ministries within the city that fits their talents and interests.
Hotline began in 1972 with 10 youths and two adults. Forty-five years later, they average 100-150 people weekly. Hotline is an ecumenical ministry and is committed to winning young souls for Christ.
Tintin’s love of young people grew from her own experience entering ministry at 18. Tintin believes that youth is a perishable talent and she provides avenues for growth as they discover and cultivate their gifts and skills.
“I am complete when I am with young people,” Tintin said. “I feel secured and overwhelmed because I am surrounded with amazing future leaders.”
Through Hotline, Tintin has seen many young people overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. Many who attend have been abused sexually, physically and emotionally. Yet, God continues to restore, not just one person’s life, but the lives of entire families.
