Adventist Youth Ministries Leaders’ Summit Inspires Young People to Carry On the Mission

The Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM) Adventist Youth Ministries created a memorable and inspiring event for young people from January 17 to 19 at the South Philippine Adventist College (SPAC) in Brgy. Camanchiles, Matanao, Davao del Sur. The campus became the weekend hub of energy, purpose, and faith as over 2,000 youth leaders gathered for the first SePUM-wide Adventist Youth Ministries (AYM) Leaders’ Summit.

Youth leaders from five missions—Davao Mission (DM), Northern Davao Mission (NDM), Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM), South Central Mindanao Mission (SCMM), and Southeastern Caraga Mission (SCM)—embarked on journeys from across the region to join this landmark gathering. Each delegation brought unique energy, carrying mission flags high as they marched in the vibrant opening parade. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as the flags waved and friendships began to form, setting the stage for a weekend filled with purpose and collaboration.

SePUM Treasurer Sir Laurence Lamera followed with an uplifting message, drawing from Genesis 12:3 to remind everyone of God’s unwavering promises of protection and blessings—God will defend and protect those faithful to Him!” These words echoed throughout the activity field to encourage the youth to anchor their faith in God’s providence.

Dr. Chliejvferwyn Catolico, SPAC President, warmly welcomed the eager delegates and expressed gratitude for their presence.

The opening events concluded with an exciting flag-raising race that filled the venue with cheers and laughter from the delegates. Groups encouraged one another, celebrating the camaraderie and spirit of unity that emerged. The energy reached its peak when participants formed the word “SePUM” in a striking human display, symbolizing their shared commitment to the church’s mission. The summit perfectly balanced spiritual inspiration with practical training.

The SPAC Choir and Ensemble’s performances created a joyful atmosphere, while the plenary sessions and workshops provided youth leaders with practical tools to excel in their ministries.

Pastor Petronio Genebago, the Youth Director for the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, led an engaging session on team building and accountability. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual support among leaders in God’s church.

Pastor Rene Rosa, the Vice President for Evangelism at SePUM, added humor and depth to his vespers message titled “Gifted to Serve.” He reminded everyone that God has uniquely equipped each individual to make a positive difference.

The early dawn on Sabbath brought another wave of inspiration as Pr. David Bornales, Executive Secretary of Davao Mission, delivered a moving message centered on a modified Sabbath School program that instilled God-glorifying talks.

Pastor Raul Emnace, SePUM Sabbath School, Personal Ministries, and ASI Director, encouraged delegates to embrace their divine calling with the same resolve as Gideon’s 300 soldiers, who carried out their mission with unwavering faith and dedication to “carry on.”

The presentations at the summit focused on addressing key challenges and opportunities in youth ministry. Elder Rhoen Shane Peralta Catolico, the SePUM Director of Communication, Media, Public Affairs, and Religious Liberty, discussed the important topic of “Managing Church-Sponsored Events.” He highlighted the significance of organizing evangelistic campaigns, seminars and training sessions, conventions, and conferences in accordance with church standards. He quoted 1 Corinthians 14:40, which states, “Let all things be done decently and in order.” Elder Catolico also stressed the necessity of maximizing the God-given resources to ensure the sustainability of future ministries in a responsible manner.

On the other hand, Pr. Danny Inato, SePUM Publishing and Spirit of Prophecy Director inspired delegates with ways to combine literature ministry with gospel outreach.

Meanwhile, the Youth Directors from all missions gave brief talks on AYM Empowerment: Pr. Irnie Hemoroz of Davao Mission (DM) discussed Master Guide Promotion; Pr. Vicente Hulguin of Northern Davao Mission (NDM) highlighted Pathfinder Club Ministry; Pr. Joel Nacubuan of Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM) spoke about Adventurer Club, Pr. Zaldy Dimagnaong of South Central Mindanao Mission (SCMM) focused on the Ambassadors Club for ages 16 to 21; Pr. Minoru Efren Estrada of Southeastern Caraga Mission (SCM) shared insights about Young Adult Ministries for ages 22-30.

Pastor Nelo Seda Jr. (SePUM) emphasized Senior Youth Leaders and the importance of fully implementing these youth programs in all churches to reduce the depletion of youth membership in congregations.

The Sabbath celebration was completed with a powerhouse cast of youth motivators and concluded with a message from former Davao Mission youth director Pr. Edwin Magdadaro, now the SePUM Executive Secretary, inspired all youth leaders by emphasizing their roles to “train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).

The summit, themed “Carry On,” concluded with a powerful message from Pastor Genebago, encouraging young leaders to join together in the race of faith. His message resonated with Ellen G. White’s vision for youth ministry, which emphasizes the importance of mobilizing both young and older members to share God’s message. The unity prayer, which he led, saw all delegates forming a large circle and kneeling at the SPAC Open Field. This moment provided the supplemental strength needed for the significant mission everyone would tackle back home.

The summit featured many unforgettable aspects, including dedicated hosts, a smoothly flowing program, well-organized tent and room accommodations, incredible musical and instrumental performances, and knowledgeable speakers and lecturers who addressed relevant topics. Everyone truly deserved the fireworks display at the finale, along with heartfelt prayers for the success of AYM and all church ministries.

The weekend was not only focused on learning but also on experiencing. From heartfelt prayers to the camaraderie shared over meals, the summit made a lasting impression. Delegates returned home with new skills, knowledge, and a renewed passion to serve their churches, communities, and campuses.

It was a weekend filled with hope, joy, and the unmistakable presence of God’s guidance. As Ellen G. White once wrote: “In this closing work of the gospel, there is a vast field to be occupied… Both the youth and those older in years will be called… If they put their hearts into the work… He will fit them to labor for Him” (Youth Instructor, 1908).