Following an intensive three-day leadership training across the Philippine archipelago, the Adventist Church in the Southwestern Philippines (SwPUC) swiftly mobilized to extend the momentum. Church leaders launched a caravan of training and information dissemination across their respective territories, ensuring that every church member is informed and actively engaged in the massive evangelistic campaign of Harvest 2025 within the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD).
As part of SSD’s evangelistic initiative, Harvest 2025, church leaders and members gathered at Western Mindanao Adventist Academy (WMAA) from January 31 to February 2, 2025, for an intensive training and discipleship program. The three-day event aimed to equip participants with evangelistic skills, strengthen leadership development, and deepen spiritual commitment in preparation for the division-wide mission effort.
Empowering Sabbath School as a Soul-Winning Ministry
One of the key components of the training focused on the role of Sabbath School in evangelism. Pastor Abundionito Cayme, Sabbath School, Personal Ministries, and Adventist-Laymen’s Services and Industries (ASI) Director of the SWPUC, emphasized the significance of Sabbath School as a vital instrument for discipleship. He outlined the four foundational elements of Sabbath School—Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and mission—and underscored their role in nurturing spiritual growth and outreach.
“Sabbath School is more than just a Bible study session; it is a movement designed for mission,” said Cayme. He introduced Sabbath School Alive, a General Conference initiative aimed at revitalizing Sabbath School programs to be more mission-oriented. Citing Ellen G. White’s writings, he reinforced the idea that Sabbath School should be “one of the greatest instrumentalities in bringing souls to Christ.”
Retention and Evangelism: Strengthening the Church
In addressing the need for member retention, SWPUC Treasurer Chemuel Almocera highlighted the importance of nurturing new believers beyond baptism. Drawing from the parables of the Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Lost Son, he emphasized that evangelism does not end with conversion but extends to intentional discipleship programs that sustain spiritual growth.
“We must create an environment where new members feel supported, engaged, and connected to the body of Christ,” Almocera stated. He urged churches to establish small-group ministries that foster personal connections and accountability.
Care Groups: A Model for Sustainable Evangelism
Pastor Jerrymil Pamonag, SWPUC Vice President for Nurture, Discipleship, and Reclamation (NDR/IEL), presented Care Groups as an effective and sustainable evangelistic model. He highlighted how small group ministries, modeled after Christ’s personal approach to discipleship, create nurturing communities where faith can thrive.
“The early church grew through small groups, and this remains the most effective model for discipleship today,” said Pamonag, referencing Luke 22:31–34. He encouraged church leaders to establish care groups in their local congregations as part of their evangelistic strategy.
Strategic Planning for Mission: Pressing Toward the Goal
A key segment of the training focused on the importance of structured and prayerful strategic planning to effectively fulfill the church’s mission. Participants were reminded of the benefits of organized mission planning, which include:
Aligning church initiatives with its divine mission.
Strengthening unity through collective vision.
Maximizing resources for greater outreach.
Enhancing member engagement and participation.
Through these discussions, church leaders were challenged to press forward with a clear vision, drawing inspiration from Philippians 3:13-14.
A Call to Faithfulness in Mission
During the Sabbath worship service, Pastor Jerry C. Patalinghug, SWPUC President, delivered a powerful message on faithfulness in mission. Citing Matthew 24:4-14, Deuteronomy 4:3-4, 40, and 1 John 2:25, he reminded attendees that the gospel commission will only be fulfilled when every believer actively participates in evangelism.
“The work of God in this earth can never be finished until the men and women comprising our church membership rally to the work and unite their efforts with those of ministers and church officers,” Patalinghug said, quoting Gospel Workers, p. 351.
Looking Beyond Harvest 2025
As Harvest 2025 gains momentum, the Adventist Church is already looking ahead to the I WILL GO initiative for 2025-2030, a long-term evangelistic strategy designed to sustain and expand mission efforts. Pastor Patalinghug introduced this initiative by outlining four key mission priorities that will guide the church’s mission moving forward.
At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to deepening spiritual connections through communion with God, emphasizing both personal and corporate spiritual life. Recognizing the importance of grounding believers in their faith, the initiative also focuses on identity in Christ, reinforcing Adventist beliefs and mission. To strengthen the church from within, unity through the Holy Spirit is a crucial priority, fostering harmony and collective purpose among members. Lastly, mission for all calls for the active involvement of every church member in discipleship and outreach, ensuring that the gospel message reaches communities far and wide.
These mission priorities serve as a foundation for sustained evangelistic efforts and continued church growth. As the church moves forward, these guiding principles will empower Adventists across the Southern Asia-Pacific region to remain steadfast in their commitment to spreading the gospel and preparing the world for Christ’s return.
The original article was published on the Southwestern Philippines Union Conference Facebook Page website.