Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM)Publishing Ministries Department conducted a Southern Mindanao Mission(SMM)-wide Practical Leadership Training and Workshop for Publishing Ministries, wherein about 40 participants, publishing ministry workers and student leaders, gathered at Mackenzie Hall, SMM Compound, to listen to lectures themed, “Empowered to Lead, Called to Publish.”
The training sought to strengthen leadership capacity within the Publishing Ministry by building skills in communication, accountability, teamwork and spiritual leadership. Organizers emphasized that ministry leadership extends beyond managing responsibilities, highlighting service, inspiration and sharing messages through literature and social interactions. “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4)
Pastor Danny Inato, SePUM Publishing Director, served as guest speaker, urging participants to embrace their calling as leaders and missionaries through publishing work. Pr. Ian Ray G. Basco, SMM Publishing and Spirit of Prophecy Director, along with SMM administrators and directors also led lectures on leadership and ministry topics. Ellen G. White once wrote, “The publishing work was ordained of God, and it is to be carried forward with increasing efficiency” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 138), underscoring the sacred responsibility entrusted to leaders.
Sessions covered accountability, financial management, sermon preparation, spiritual leadership, hygiene in literature ministry, unlimited blessings, child-focused ministry, leaving a legacy for God’s work, stress management, and recording and reporting. The topics offered practical knowledge and spiritual insights to enhance effectiveness in ministry. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (Colossians 3:23).
Participants joined workshop sessions to apply lessons and strengthen leadership skills. The event concluded with a dedication ceremony, committing leaders to serve faithfully in their assignments. Mrs. Ellen G. White, an American writer whose books inspired millions reminded, “We are living in a time when a great work is to be done. There is a famine in the land for the pure gospel, and the bread of life is to be given to hungry souls. There is no better opportunity to do this work than that offered to the consecrated canvasser. Thousands of books containing the precious light of present truth should be placed in the homes of the people.” (Christian Service, 152), a vision echoing the need for literature evangelists.
As part of the program, attendees visited churches on Sabbath, engaging in hands-on ministry and strengthening ties with local congregations. Mission leaders said the training provided a meaningful platform to empower Publishing Ministries leaders, equipping them to lead with purpose, serve with compassion and share hope through literature across Southern Mindanao Mission territory. “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace” (Isaiah 52:7)
Correspondent: Sheena Lee Dotarot
Photos: HOPE Channel Southern Mindanao
