Adventist Teachers Inspire Faith beyond the Classroom, Leading 113 to Christ

The West Visayan Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Philippines conducted a week-long evangelism series July 7-13, under the theme, “Living Hope: Discovering God’s Plan for Your Life.” The WVC Education Department organized and oversaw the event, which demonstrated the active involvement of church members in the church’s mission.

The culmination of the series on July 13 saw 113 individuals embracing faith in Christ through baptism. The outcome displays a testament to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and divine intervention, underscoring the profound impact of unified efforts in spreading the gospel.

Stepping beyond their classrooms and comfort zones, educators accustomed to nurturing young minds seized the chance to share the Savior’s love firsthand.

The simultaneous evangelism effort spanned two districts in the province of Capiz in central Philippines. Teachers and church leaders devoted their time to spreading the gospel, delivering health lectures, and engaging children with sermons.

WVC education director Rose Mae Arizala brought together educators who ventured into various barangays and districts and embarked on a widespread evangelism effort, reaching out to communities across the region. Teachers visited both remote and densely populated areas. Despite logistical challenges such as distance from main roads and natural barriers, they conducted evening sessions that collectively drew an estimated 1,100 attendees throughout the campaign. The program featured health lectures and engaging sermons aimed at developing spiritual growth and community unity.

“The support from each church and the brethren was remarkable and truly instrumental in the success of this initiative,” Arizala said. She also acknowledged the pivotal role of Rafael Sualog, WVC Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle—Nurture Development Reclamation director, and his team in ensuring the initiative’s success.

WVC president Kerry Estrebilla expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts of teachers, members, and church workers in the program. “We deeply appreciate the dedication and commitment of our guests from the Adventist churches of Southern Asia-Pacific (SSD), Central Philippines (CPUC), and especially our WVC teachers,” Estrebilla emphasized. “A shared vision to support and enhance our neighborhood communities drives our Adventist community. We remain steadfast in our commitment to serve and assist in any way possible,” he added.

The event saw active participation from CPUC associate education director Ana Liza Facon and CPUC education director Lemuel Banday, who passionately shared the gospel. Bienvenido Mergal, Southern Asia-Pacific Division education director, served as the keynote presenter, delivering his personal testimony and inspiring teachers with the message of perseverance and faith in God during challenging times.

Motivated by the biblical commission found in Matthew 28:19–20, which commands believers, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost,” the week-long evangelistic effort aimed to fulfill this divine mandate.

This version of the commentary was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site. The original article was posted on the West Visayan Conference Facebook page.