Talicud Island, Philippines—A spirit of fellowship and generosity filled the community as the Davao City SDA Elementary School, Inc. (DCSDAES) held its annual Gift-Giving Program, joined this year by the Davao Mission Children’s Ministries Department through a special Children’s Fellowship at Linosutan Seventh-day Adventist Church on January 31.
SePUM President Pastor Danielo Palomares and Children’s Ministries Director Ma’am Jill Palomares inspired the congregation with messages of love and obedience. Pastor Palomares reminded families to “love one another as Christ loved us” (John 13:34-35) and encouraged daily Bible reading, while Ma’am Jill emphasized Jesus’ call to faithfulness: “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” John 14:15
Children joyfully showcased their talents in singing, preaching, and reciting memory verses—highlighting the importance of nurturing young disciples to grow in a loving relationship with Jesus. Families expressed gratitude as they received rice, grocery items, clothing, toys, and slippers, tangible reminders to walk with Jesus in every step of life.
“Believing that the food packs prepared for our school’s adopted church in Linustan were limited, we chose to distribute them on Friday afternoon before the vesper worship, already bracing ourselves for the Children’s Fellowship the next day with no more rice to give,” confided Ma’am Charity Q. Allarse, DM Children’s Ministries Director and MSA Coordinator. “Yet to our astonishment, God multiplied our offering—we were able to provide rice not only to the children of Linustan but also to those from four neighboring churches, including non-Adventist visitors. Truly, God is a generous provider, filling us with blessings beyond expectation and surprises beyond measure.”
These blessings were made possible through the generosity of parents, alumni, donors, the DCSDAES School Board, and the Davao Mission of SDA. Special appreciation was extended to Principal Ma’am Ana Soset Cadiz and the dedicated teachers and staff for their commitment to education and outreach that bring hope and spiritual nurture to the community.
Beyond service, DCSDAES remains active in evangelism. Last summer, the school conducted an evangelistic crusade on Talicud Island as part of Harvest 2025 initiative, resulting in 34 baptisms—a testimony of its holistic ministry and discipleship.
This year’s fellowship and gift-giving program reflected the heart of the gospel—love and service—bringing joy to children and families while giving glory and honor to God.
In Child Guidance, 486.2, Mrs. Ellen G. White narrated: “God wants every child of tender age to be His child, to be adopted into His family. Young though they may be, the youth may be members of the household of faith and have a most precious experience. They may have hearts that are tender and ready to receive impressions that will be lasting.” Let us therefore join hands together to mold generous and happy children.
Story and photo credits: Ma’am Charity Q. Allarse, DM Children’s Ministries Director and Ministerial Spouses Association Coordinator
