Sulu-Tawi-Tawi District Holds Successful Elders and Church Officers Fellowship Retreat: A Testament to Faith and Unity

The Sulu-Tawi-Tawi District of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church recently held its First Elders and Church Officers Fellowship Retreat. The event, held on September 20-21, 2024, at Sandbar Beach, Pasiagan Bongao Tawi-Tawi, brought together leaders and members from across the district, showcasing the strength and resilience of the Adventist community in the face of challenges.

The retreat’s success was even more remarkable considering the obstacles faced during its planning and execution. From delayed flights for speakers to challenging weather conditions that made travel difficult, the organizers encountered numerous hurdles. However, the spirit of unity and determination prevailed, demonstrating the power of faith in overcoming adversity.

Bringing together a diverse group of leaders and members from three organized churches: Bongao Seventh-Day Adventist Church (BSDAC), Bongao Adventist Center (BAC), and Tubig Indangan Adventist Center (TIAC). Representatives from five company churches – Tonggusong, Di-Ungos, Total (Simunul Island), Lumboy (Bongao), and the farthest Languyan – also participated, showcasing the wide reach and strong connections within the district.

Featuring powerful messages from prominent Adventist leaders, including Pastor Elmer Dulang, ZPM Ministerial Director, and Pastor Ranny Devera, ZPM Adventist Mission Director. Pastor Dulang emphasized the importance of leadership, stating in his Sabbath School program lecture, “A good leader is a good follower.” This message resonated deeply with the attendees, reminding them of the interconnectedness of leadership and service.

President of the SULADS, Pastor Ephraim Pitogo, also visited the retreat and shared a message on being a co-laborer of God during the Divine Service. His words inspired attendees to consider their roles in furthering the mission of the church and to work together in spreading the gospel.

The afternoon program included a health lecture for church members, providing valuable information on maintaining physical and spiritual well-being. Elders and officers participated in a leadership development meeting led by Pastor Dulang, focusing on enhancing their skills and understanding of their responsibilities. Elder Danilo Langamin, a participant in the retreat, remarked, “It’s good to have this kind of event to train not only the elders and officers in the organized churches but also the leaders of the soon-to-be organized churches.” This sentiment highlighted the importance of investing in leadership development at all levels within the Adventist community.

The retreat concluded with a powerful baptism ceremony, where four individuals accepted Jesus Christ as their personal savior. Pastor Dulang officiated the baptism, marking a significant moment of spiritual growth and commitment for the newly baptized. This act of faith served as a reminder of the transformative power of the gospel and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.

Despite the challenges faced, the Sulu-Tawi-Tawi District’s First Elders and Church Officers Fellowship Retreat was a resounding success. It served as a testament to the unwavering faith, unity, and resilience of the Adventist community. The retreat provided a platform for spiritual growth, leadership development, and fellowship, strengthening the bonds between members and inspiring them to continue serving God and their communities.

Pastor Bethuel James Fabriga – District Pastor, aptly summarized the event’s significance: “Even in challenging seasons, the most important part was the success of the event, which helped the parishioners, especially the brethren, and served as a reminder of their roles as elders and officers of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.