The Southern Asia-Pacific Division Annual Mid-Year Meeting kicked off today, May 6th, at the Life Hope Impact Center in Silang, Cavite, Philippines, drawing leaders from across the region. Over the course of two days, from May 6th to 7th, delegates will gather to strategize, collaborate, and forge pathways for progress within the division.
The General Conference honored the meeting with guests such as Associate Secretary Samuel Saw, Khamsay Phetchareun, Director of the Center for East Asian Religions, Brent Burdick, SunPlus Global Director, and Elder Karnik Doukmetzian, General Counsel. GC Vice President Audrey Anderson is anticipated to join the gathering on Tuesday morning, May 7th, adding further insight and perspective to the discussions.
Message on Leadership
Pastor Saw Samuel led a devotional message at the start of the meeting, emphasizing the importance of divine providence in guiding leadership. Samuel emphasized the profound realization that leaders were not chosen by chance but rather recipients of a higher calling, orchestrated by God's hand.
In his address, Samuel underscored leadership as a dynamic fusion of mission, vision, and divine guidance. The audience deeply resonated with his words, establishing a purposeful and intentional gathering.
Leadership is not without its hurdles, as Pastor Samuel articulated in his address. He shed light on the manifold challenges that leaders encounter as they navigate the diverse responsibilities within their respective domains. According to Samuel, a significant number find themselves struggling, unable to thrive amidst the demands placed upon them. Furthermore, he noted that many falter in their journey, failing to conclude their tenure with the desired impact. Additionally, Samuel highlighted the prevalence of poor decision-making, insecurities, and a lack of balance among leaders, underscoring the multifaceted nature of the obstacles they confront.
Acknowledging the inherent challenges, Samuel drew parallels to the life of Paul, who exemplified unwavering fidelity to God despite enduring imprisonment for his steadfast devotion to Christ. Delving into Paul's character, Samuel highlighted several key attributes: Paul's identity as a devoted servant of Christ Jesus, recognizing Him as his Master; his unwavering commitment to his calling as an apostle, faithfully following the path set before him; and his resolute determination to live with purpose, driven by a profound sense of mission.
Samuel also emphasized Ellen White's writing, asserting that a true leader embodies God, His character, and His purpose for those under their guidance.
The meetings are scheduled to address critical topics aimed at galvanizing the church to advance God's mission of spreading the gospel throughout this region. Leaders fervently pray for fruitful outcomes, envisioning growth both within and beyond the church's walls. Their collective aspiration is to cultivate sustained expansion, nurture the mission's prosperity, and ultimately introduce Jesus to a world in need.
Edward Rodriguez, SSD Communication Department