The Adventist Church in Central Philippines (CPUC) celebrated a sacred triumph as the "Each One Reach One for Christ” care group's evangelistic campaign culminated in the baptism of about 20 individuals on December 2, 2023, at Brgy. Bantolinao, Antequera, Bohol. This marked the first evangelistic effort in the area since the completion of the church building.
Pastor Mariano Salloman, CPUC stewardship director, served as the nightly gospel speaker from November 24 to December 1, 2023. Reflecting on the challenges of preaching in the province, he stated, "It is a big challenge to preach in this place, and throughout my life, I have experienced an unforgettable one. Though it seems really hard, it is not impossible with the power of God guiding those who dedicate themselves to the work of the Lord, alongside our brothers and sisters.”
Expressing gratitude for the unwavering support, Pastor Salloman acknowledged the district pastor, his beloved wife, and his son, stating, "Their dedication is the driving force behind our hard work, and we pray for the warmth of serving the Lord to continue until He returns, and we will unite in heaven and live forever when Jesus comes. May God’s blessings be upon us all.”
Moreover, District Pastor Danilo Pagatpat thanked the E'R'4+ care group for extending their ministry in his district and attributed the program's success to God’s divine intervention. "Our program here within a week became successful with the help of the Lord and the support of our brothers and sisters in the district and the respective churches across its territory.”
The weeklong evangelistic campaign brought about 200 attendees each night. Mrs. Fe Pigon and Miss Liza Facon, E'R'4+ care group members and leaders, respectively, participated as health lecturers. Miss Facon praised the Lord for sustaining the weeklong meeting and uniting the brethren of the entire district in full support of the endeavor.
“We are also thankful to God for His ongoing guidance of CPUC leadership, empowering them to faithfully serve as instruments in ensuring that the gospel commission will be carried out throughout every part of CPUC and beyond,” Miss Facon said.
Gladys Delopere, a newly baptized individual, expressed her happiness and gratitude for her family's support. “Now that I am already baptized, I will ask for guidance from our elders on what to do as a Seventh-day Adventist. I will always remember the words that I have heard today: to always worship the Lord, read the Bible, and pray. Moreover, I aim to share the light that I receive with my family.”
Pastor Eliezer “Joer” T. Barlizo, Jr., CPUC president and the E'R'4+ care group adviser, extended gratitude for everyone’s involvement in the work of the Lord. During the hour of worship, he emphasized making a difference in the community and the warmth of serving the Lord, which will continue until He comes.
“Let us continue to pray for our newly baptized brothers and sisters, and through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the impact of the evangelistic effort will lead more individuals to accept Christ as their personal Savior as there are more individuals who are having their ongoing Bible study. May God bless all our endeavors,” Pastor Barlizo said.
Nadeth Quinto, CPUC Communication Department