Many were surprised, coupled with some leaked information, when the Ministerial Spouses Association (MSA) and the Ministerial Department designed a program called “Pastors and Workers Appreciation Day” at Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM) on November 4, 2024.
Jill Alfaro-Palomares, the Children’s Ministries Director and MSA Coordinator, orchestrated the event. She delegated tasks to some female SePUM staff, including procuring tokens, printing Canva-aided programs, and creating DIY decorations. As a result, they were the few who knew about the surprise.
Pastor Rey Dela Cruz, the Ministerial Director, fully supported the event and maintained the element of surprise for the directors and administrators, except Elder Laurence Lamera, SePUM Treasurer, who delivered the keynote message.
Lamera emphasized the importance of appreciating good deeds and keeping our minds on exemplary things. Quoting Philippians 4:8, he said, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
He also thanked God’s workers who trusted their leaders, as mentioned in Hebrews 13:17: “Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would not benefit you.”
There were people who gave sweet thoughts for the pastors, ministerial spouses, administrative assistants, administrators, accounting personnel, and support staff. At the end of the celebration, you will realize that these individuals are like body parts that can actually perform well with the others; they are just like an orchestra that can not produce enchanting music when the other instruments are not in tune.
As the theme song resonated at the beginning and end of the ceremony, dependence upon God was the dictate for our prevailing days. “Forward by faith, led by your hand, willing to follow your every command. United in Spirit, together we stand, we will go forward by faith.”
As explained by this Spirit-driven writer, Ellen G. White, gratitude provides cheerfulness and other beautiful results. She said: “Educate the soul to cheerfulness, to thankfulness, and the expression of gratitude to God for the great love wherewith He hath loved us… Christian cheerfulness is the very beauty of holiness.” Child Guidance, p. 146
