On October 21, 2023, the ABL Sports Complex in Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines, witnessed the convergence of thousands for a day of fellowship and jubilation. The occasion heralded the Care Group Harvest Celebration and marked the solemn ordination of two ministers. This event, epitomizing unity and unwavering faith, signaled a resolute commitment to advancing the Lord's work, not only in the Province of Aklan but also along the broader scope beyond its borders.
The program commenced with a vibrant parade featuring diverse care groups from across the province, including the members of the Gospel Care Group from the Central Philippine Union Conference (CPUC) of Seventh-day Adventists, marching with banners and uniforms.
Pastor Eliezer T. Barlizo Jr., president of the CPUC, expressed sincere gratitude to God for the successful simultaneous evangelistic campaign that the Gospel Care Group led in five locations throughout Aklan.
"We extend our thanks to every member and our church leaders who tirelessly contributed to this endeavor. Their dedication and support have been instrumental in the campaign's success. We fervently pray that the Lord's blessings and favor continue to guide us, enabling us to further His work. Thank you, and may God bless us abundantly," Pastor Barlizo conveyed.
The simultaneous evangelistic campaign unfolded in five strategic sites: Balete, with Pastor Renito C. Inapan as the speaker and Pastor Nestor Rapanan as the district leader; Aparicio, Ibajay, with Pastor Lowell Quinto and district pastor Ricky Villarin; Poblacion Makato, with Pastor Bernie Maniego, assisted by district pastor Mark Jan Ysulan; Santa Ana, Ibajay, with Pastor Fernando Narciso and district pastor Jerson Rafael; and Libacao, with Pastor Ferdinand Esico and district pastor Ivan Baltar.
Pastor Lowell L. Quinto, CPUC field secretary for Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle in Nurturing, Discipleship, and Reclamation (IEL-NDR), thanked the West Visayan Conference (WVC) leadership, district pastors, and all the brothers who took part in the first Bible study through cottage meetings, care group sessions, and house-to-house visits in an interview.
“I encourage you to continue supporting the work of the church by actively participating in the care group ministry, allowing us all the great privilege of winning precious souls. To God be the glory! Let's keep supporting the Lord's work and continue through the care group ministry. Maranatha!" Pastor Quinto exclaimed.
Additionally, the WVC leadership expressed their gratitude to the CPUC for their services and initiative in conducting the evangelistic campaign, emphasizing the church's fundamental mission of spreading the Gospel.
Pastor Rolando Dolor, WVC field secretary and Sabbath School director, said, “This work becomes possible because of everyone's support and our brethren's dedication to preaching the good news. Our existence as a church is rooted in this special mission to spread the Gospel worldwide. Let this inspire all our brothers and sisters who wish to be part of this sacred work that the Lord has entrusted to us. May God bless us as we continue to engage in this holy mission.”
Following the worship service, a momentous occasion unfolded as Pastor Nestor Rapanan and Pastor Ferdinand Cabatac were ordained in the Gospel ministry, marking a significant milestone for the church. Following the ordination ceremony, there was a baptism event on Sabbath afternoon, where new believers openly expressed their joy and gratitude for embracing faith. Notably, among the newly baptized were family members of one of the ordained ministers. Marita Orellana, who expressed her heartfelt joy, stated, "I am very thankful that today, I was baptized by my own son, Nestor. It's a blessing to have him guide us in understanding what is right and wrong."
The weeklong nightly meetings in five different sites drew large crowds, culminating in the baptism of 232 souls through God’s grace. The event concluded with expressions of gratitude for everyone and a call for continued prayers for those young in faith.
The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website.