A Philosophy of Development for Ministry Among Women in Prostitution
Author: Jonathan Nambu (2002)

Authored by one of Samaritana’s founders and its current executive director, this paper outlines a philosophical framework on which the ministry and organization operates. Placing an emphasis for concern towards the vulnerable, Jonathan Nambu proposes that relationships and community are key for development. Using biblical texts and personal notes, he suggests that transformation may be possible if the approach used is holistic, spiritual and participatory in nature. He also endorses the so-called “ministry of presence.”

On Mirroring Jesus Christ to a Prostitute
Author(s): Thelma Nambu and Virginia Velasco (1990)

Written sometime before Samaritana was officially founded, this paper provides somewhat of an exposition on the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman in the book of John. The authors present the parallel stories of “the woman at the well” and a Filipino woman who works at a bar. The authors also discuss the socio-political climate relative to Philippine society’s attitude towards prostitution and prostituted women in the ‘70s and ‘80s. They argue that the government and other organizations that exist to assist women out of prostitution have much to learn from Jesus’s interaction with the woman from Samaria.

The Beginnings of Samaritana: A Ministry Among Filipino Hospitality Women
Author: Thelma Nambu (1992)

Thelma Nambu, founder and spiritual director of Samaritana describes the inception of the ministry from 1991 to 1992.  This includes topics such as the establishment, philosophy, target area, initial contacts, and lessons learned in the first year.

A Study of Samaritana Transformation Ministries, Inc.: A Brief History of the Ministry
Author(s): Roberto de Fiesta, Jonathan Orillaza and Rodrigo Tano 

This paper provides an overview of how Samaritana was formed, the biblical foundation from which it operates, the ministry’s objectives, and the programs offered.  Authors de Fiesta, Orillaza, and Tano use Samaritana’s ministry as an example for Christians to engage in an active theology where the needs of the poor and the oppressed are met holistically.

Looking in the Eyes of the Hidden Among Us: Reflections on Seeing the Poor and Vulnerable
Author: Jonathan Nambu 

Nambu reflects on how Christians are to respond to the poor living among them. He reminds his readers of how easy it is to overlook the poor rather than deliberately seek them out as Jesus did.  Nambu suggests that as individuals draw closer to the poor, they gain a greater revelation of who Jesus is. The reflection concludes with practical ways of how to see the poor in Christians’ midst.

Towards an Ecclesiological Praxis 
Author: Maggie Camp (2008)

This paper reflects on the partnership between Samaritana, several churches, government officials and other NGOs based in Quezon Avenue, an area rife with prostitution. It is also a theological investigation on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus and how its message is central in the unique work of the Church to rescue women out of poverty and abuse.