SePUM Adventist Mission (AM) under the directorship of Pr. Jonathan Hemoroz launched for the Adventist Muslim Relation Level 1&2 Certification Training at South Philippine Adventist College (SPAC) on March 23 to 31 which explored how the Seventh-day Adventist Church can embody Christ’s love by building bridges of respect, dialogue, and service with Muslim communities.
The sessions were attended by a total of 49 participants which include AM directors, pastors, missionaries and emphasized shared faith values, cultural sensitivity, and the ministry of presence as vital pathways to mutual understanding.
The speakers included Pr. Hemoroz; Pr. Abner P. Dizon - Director for Interfaith Services for Muslim & Secular-Postmodern Ministries at the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD); with the AM / Adventist Muslim Directors of different mission fields: Pr. Ranny de Vera - Zamboanga Peninsula Mission (ZPM); Pr. Eugene Dela Peǹa - South Central Mindanao Mission (SCMM); Pr. Vincent Baragona - North Central Mindanao Conference (NCMC); along with Pr. Harlie Ybaǹez - Former AM Director /Ministerial Secretary, Northern Davao Mission (NDM); Pr. Lito Magsico - Former AM Director, Davao Mission (DM), Dr. Jimmy Adil- former AM Director of SwPUC now President of Adventist Medical Center College (AMCC) and a lady Muslim leader from Lanao del Sur. All AM Directors also serve as Adventist Muslim Relation Coordinator and other missionary movements of the church.
The training opened with God’s plans for the Abraham’s children, reminding participants that God’s love extends to all nations, including the descendants of Ishmael, the root of Mohammed and the Muslim; and Isaac, the ancestor of Isa Al-Masih (Jesus) honored by Muslims as one of the greatest prophets, born miraculously of Mary (Maryam). This foundation set the tone for discussions on Islamic beliefs, greetings, and first contact, underscoring the importance of cultural sensitivity in nurturing genuine relationships.
Historical and theological connections were highlighted in history and shared beliefs, where participants examined Islamic practices, the role of Jesus in both the Bible and Qur’an, and shared eschatological hopes. These sessions revealed common ground that can foster dialogue and respect.
The program also delved into scripture, culture, and initiation, addressing topics such as Qur’anic revelation and abrogation, women in Islam, and cultural dynamics. These discussions encouraged Adventists to approach interfaith engagement with humility and awareness, focusing on deep engagement and conversational ministry which calls for listening, empathy, and authentic presence rather than debate or confrontation.
Further sessions explored Qur’anic bridges, Islamic law and practices, including the Sunnah, Hadith, Sharia, and Fiqh, equipping participants with knowledge to better understand Muslim life and faith. It introduced Qur’anic signs which can serve as bridges to Bible study guides, opening respectful avenues for spiritual dialogue.
The training culminated in, where participants engaged in deep studies on the person of Jesus—His names, death, and nature—using guides designed to foster meaningful dialogue. Finally, core Christological conversations and service integration and commissioning emphasized that service is the greatest bridge-building tool, reflecting the greatest attribute of Allah which is mercy.
As a result of the training, 38 participants received accreditation and identification cards signifying that they completed intensive training to love and serve across cultural and religious boundaries, ready for shared beliefs, practice cultural sensitivity, and engage in service, thus embodying Christ’s compassion and presence among all peoples.
Revelation 14:6 says: “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” This urges us, the bearers of truth, to share the message of salvation as tasked.
The Spirit of Prophecy through Mrs. Ellen G. White, reiterated the mission this way: “The gospel is to be carried to all nations, tongues, and peoples. The Lord desires His church to proclaim to the world the message of truth, to prepare a people for the coming of the Lord.” — Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 23
