General Santos City, Philippines — As the new quinquennium begins, the Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM) successfully convened the Adventist Youth Ministries Fellowship and Youth Leadership Training on at the SMM Headquarters in General Santos City, to nurture Christ-centered leaders who will faithfully serve God and humanity.
The two-day gathering brought together more than 124 district Adventist Youth leaders from across the territory, marking a significant milestone at the dawn of a new quinquennium.
The fellowship sought to strengthen unity among youth leaders, equip newly elected officers with essential leadership skills, and facilitate the election of new Adventist Youth Ministries (AYM) officers for the incoming term. Recognizing the vital role of youth ministry in church growth and mission engagement, the program emphasized servant leadership, spiritual formation, and collaborative ministry.
Facilitated by the outgoing SMM AYM leaders, the event ensured continuity and mentorship as responsibilities transitioned to the next set of officers. Spiritual counsel was provided by Pastor Nelo Seda Jr., Youth Director of the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM), and Pastor Edilberto Tangayan Jr., SMM Youth Director. Their messages highlighted faithfulness in calling, the sacred trust of leadership, and the vital role of young people in advancing the gospel.
The training reaffirmed the biblical and Adventist understanding that leadership is not merely organizational but deeply spiritual. Ellen G. White reminds us: “The greatest want of the world is the want of men—men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole.” (Education, p. 57)
Apostle Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples addressing Christians scattered across Asia Minor who were facing persecution, encouraging them to remain steadfast in faith and vigilant against spiritual danger, reminded, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith.” 1 Peter 5:8. Evidently, this fellowship stands as a testimony to the mission of the Adventist Church: to nurture spiritually grounded, mission-driven youth leaders equipped to serve both church and community.
Contributor: Lyka Atienza
Photo Credits: Hope Channel Southern Mindanao
