How God Changed CJ's Life —And What it Means For You

Shy, bullied, and lonely, CJ Canilao felt abandoned as he grew up without a present and loving father. But God had great plans for him.

19 Mar, 2020

Watch CJ’s amazing testimony and see how the local church, a passionate sponsor and God’s love carried him through life’s most difficult moments—and be encouraged.

In the midst of the unknown, the local church has incredible power to bring us together and remind us of God’s sovereignty and goodness in our lives.

His love is evident in the lives of millions of children who live in poverty around the world—children with their own stories, just like CJ.

Watch CJ’s story above and be encouraged at how God works all circumstances for the good of those who love Him.

Introducing Carlo Jay R. (CJ) Canilao

CJ’s parents split before he was born—and the absence of his father left a big hole in CJ’s life. As a child, he was really shy, rarely spoke, and was bullied by his peers about his family.

In 2000, CJ’s mum found comfort in a new group of friends who invited her to a Bible study group at the local church. She took CJ with her and he was registered into the Child Sponsorship Program shortly afterward.

God healed his heart, taking away his shyness and his pain—and CJ grabbed every opportunity to expand his skills and grow his faith. In 2012, he was accepted as part of Compassion’s Leadership Development Program (LDP), and entered college when he was just 15 years old.

CJ now works as part of the Trips and Visits team at Compassion Philippines with the desire to advocate for his community’s rights as well as their dreams.

His story is a powerful testimony of God’s goodness and faithfulness in the midst of difficult circumstances.

Sponsor a child like CJ and share a hope more powerful than poverty!