The 2nd Adventist-Laymen's Services and Industries (ASI) Convention concluded its highly anticipated event themed "We Connect, We Share" from June 29 to July 2. Held at the Provincial Government Center of Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, the annual meeting gathered Adventist professionals and laypersons from various fields, with a shared goal of fostering connections and sharing their expertise and experiences to further the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Adventist Church leaders and directors from the Southern Asia-Pacific region (SSD) and the South Philippines (SPUC) led a discussion on the importance of developing meaningful relationships and collaborating on various outreach projects. Attendees on the other hand participated in a variety of discussions and networking sessions. Speakers from both within and outside Adventist institutions shared insightful speeches and personal experiences on a variety of topics.
SSD Sabbath School Director Pr. Segundino R. Asoy emphasized a steward's calling to preach the gospel word in his message during the Vesper Service. "We are reminded of our divine calling to proclaim the gospel in any capacity that is given to us," Asoy stated. "Regardless of our profession or current status in life, our top priority is to be God's ministers in any field He has called us," he continued.
SSD Associate Executive Secretary Pr. Mamerto Guingguing II talked about real success not attained through earthly possessions but confidence in God who can do everything “for every believing soul.”
"What we have accomplished does not define our success." "It is determined by faithfully submitting our lives to God's leading intervention and witnessing for ourselves how this life has been used to further His work," Guingguing explained.
During the Commitment Service, Pr. Guingguing appealed to the attendees about the significance of God’s redemptive love to one’s leadership and shared touching stories about Adventists making a difference in others’ lives. The service ended with a benedictory prayer by SPUC Sabbath School Director Pr. Abundionito Jr. Cayme.
The connections forged and the knowledge shared during the event empowered the Adventist professionals and laypersons to serve as ambassadors of hope in their respective fields. ASI members are in talks to hold their evangelistic campaign in 2024 while being encouraged to get involved and participate in the campaign.
The said convention was a fruitful collaboration between SSD and SPUC Sabbath School Departments.
Next year, a division-wide ASI Convention will be held in Indonesia and is expected to feature renowned evangelists and speakers from the General Conference.
Quinn Salarda, South Philippine Union Conference