Golden light filled the Makilas Seventh-day Adventist Church as members, families, and guests gathered to celebrate a milestone—50 years of God’s faithfulness. The anniversary celebration was marked by heartfelt worship, special music, moving testimonies, and messages of gratitude that traced God’s guiding hand from humble beginnings to a thriving faith community. Old photographs, shared meals, and warm embraces turned the occasion into both a joyful reunion and a sacred thanksgiving, honoring the past while praising God for the present.
The story of the Makilas SDA Church began in 1975, rooted in obedience and trust. Leona Espacio, baptized in 1951 from Liloy, transferred her residence to Makilas—a move she believed was God’s calling to establish what is now known as the Makilas Church. What started as a gathering of one family soon grew as her sister-in-law, Conchita Espacio, and her family joined the fellowship. In faith and simplicity, the earliest members met together, prayed together, and laid the foundation of a church built on love and service.
Growth continued in 1976 with the arrival of the Potayre siblings—Arsenio and Arsenia Potayre—and Gaudioso Pontanar and Maria Potayre-Pontanar. Converts since 1970 from Margosatubig, they came with their families and served as among the church’s earliest roots. Sister Leona welcomed them with open arms, even accommodating them in her son’s house and helping them find places to settle and earn a living. Her generosity and care became well known among the brethren, a living testimony of Christian hospitality that strengthened the young congregation.
By the early 1980s, the Makilas SDA Church had become firmly established—no longer just a small group, but a growing spiritual family united in mission. Through the years, God sustained the church through challenges and blessings alike. Today, the congregation stands with a present and growing membership, a testament to decades of faithful witness, perseverance, and God’s unfailing grace.
As the church celebrated its golden anniversary, members looked ahead with hope. Their prayers for the future are anchored in the same faith that started it all: continued spiritual growth, active youth involvement, stronger community outreach, and a deeper commitment to sharing God’s love. With gratitude for the past and confidence in God’s promises, the Makilas SDA Church steps into the next chapter—assured that the God who has been faithful for 50 years will continue to lead them in the years to come.
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Makilas SDA Church
