In a region frequently tested by typhoons, communication challenges, and geographical barriers, members of the Adventist Church in the East Visayan region (EVC) recently made a unique commitment to mission by dedicating their mobile devices for evangelism as part of the upcoming OneVoice27 initiative.
The special dedication took place during the Christian Ambassadors Federation of Churches gathering at Bendicar Farm in Buac Gamay, Sogod, Southern Leyte, from May 24 to 30. The weeklong event marked the federation’s return after an eight-year hiatus since its last gathering in 2018. Centered on the theme, “Grounded in the Bible, Focused on the Mission,” the meeting brought together church leaders and members from across the East Visayan region for worship, fellowship, leadership development, and mission-focused activities. It also served as a platform to introduce and prepare members for the launch of OneVoice27, a digital evangelism initiative that seeks to mobilize every church member to share messages of hope, healing, and salvation through online platforms.
The phone dedication service took place on Saturday, May 30 and was led by retired pastors Joel Wales and Ben Mahinay, who prayed over the devices and challenged members to view their phones not merely as tools for communication, but as instruments for ministry.
Pastor Sammy Salloman, president of the East Visayan Conference, together with Pastor Bart Barrientos; executive secretary and Joshua Locop; treasurer, joined members in affirming the church’s commitment to use digital technology to advance the gospel mission throughout the territory.
For many members, the act of lifting and dedicating their mobile phones symbolized a personal pledge to participate in God’s mission through the digital space. Through OneVoice27, members commit to intentionally using social media platforms, messaging applications, and other digital channels to share faith-based content, Bible messages, testimonies, and invitations that can introduce people to Jesus Christ.
The commitment carries particular significance for EVC, whose territory includes the provinces of Biliran, Leyte, and Southern Leyte. Located along the eastern corridor of the Philippines, the region often bears the impact of typhoons and tropical weather systems that originate from the Pacific Ocean. These conditions frequently affect transportation, power supply, internet access, and communication networks, creating challenges for both daily life and ministry efforts.
Despite these realities, church members expressed confidence that God continues to provide opportunities to reach people through technology.
While internet connectivity and mobile network signals remain inconsistent in some areas, members believe digital platforms offer one of the fastest and most effective means of sharing the gospel across islands, municipalities, and communities. A message posted online can travel beyond physical boundaries, connecting with people who may otherwise never encounter an invitation to learn about Jesus.
Church leaders noted that the OneVoice27 initiative recognizes the growing influence of digital communication in today’s world. Just as previous generations utilized available methods such as literature, radio, and television to share God’s message, today’s believers are being called to utilize smartphones and social media as modern mission tools.
Pastor Joer Barlizo, president of the Adventist Church in East-Central Philippines, challenged members to embrace every opportunity to participate in God’s mission.
“God has placed powerful tools within our reach,” Barlizo said. “Whether through digital ministry, traditional outreach, or personal witness, every method can become a channel of hope. When we work together and use every available platform, we can reach more hearts and help move the mission forward in this generation.”
The dedication ceremony served as a reminder that mission is no longer limited by distance or geography. In a territory where storms may disrupt travel and communication, members are choosing to see technology as a providential avenue through which God can continue reaching hearts.
As EVC prepares for the official launch of OneVoice27, members are moving forward with a shared conviction that every device can become a platform for witness and every online interaction an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love.
For the members across Biliran, Leyte, and Southern Leyte, the dedication of their mobile devices represents more than a symbolic act. It is a declaration that, despite the challenges posed by nature and infrastructure, they are willing to place the tools in their hands at God’s disposal, trusting that He can use them to bring hope, healing, and the message of salvation to countless people throughout the digital world.