South Philippine Adventist College (SPAC) celebrated another significant milestone on March 26 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the start of construction for the third floor of the South Residence Hall (SRH). This expansion made possible through the support and leadership of the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM), will serve as a residence for pastors and workers participating in an academic and ministerial upgrading program in collaboration with the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS).
In his message, SPAC President Dr. Chliejvferwyn Catolico reflected on how divine providence coordinated each step that led to the project’s realization and conveyed his sincere thankfulness to God.
“This isn’t just a construction project,” Dr. Catolico said. “This is an example of how God cleared the path and organized events for a worthy cause that will act as a training ground for our pastors and church employees.”
The generosity of the Shunammite woman in the Bible who constructed an expansion for another room in her house to serve prophet Elisha in his ministerial work served as spiritual inspiration, as shared by Elder Laurence Lamera, Treasurer of SePUM.
“God richly blessed the Shunammite woman and her family for their generosity,” Lamera stated. “Similarly, we think this project will benefit the entire community and the church that supports God’s mission, not just the workers who will study here.”
“The story of the woman of Shunem reminds us that God always rewards generosity. Just as she was blessed for her hospitality to Elisha, SPAC will also be blessed for providing a place for pastors and workers engaged in this noble endeavor,” Lamera continued.
Meanwhile, SEPUM President Pr. Danielo Palomares also drew parallels between Zerubbabel’s time and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, emphasizing that God’s work flourishes when people come together in faith and commitment.
The SePUM officers–Pr. Danielo Palomares, President; Pr. Edwin Magdadaro, Executive Secretary; Mr. Laurence Lamera, treasurer; and department directors—graced the occasion, demonstrating the leadership’s backing for these church developments. SPAC administrators attended the ceremony, as did selected faculty and staff and the Project Architect.
As construction progresses, SPAC remains steadfast in its goal to provide quality education and spiritual nourishment to church leaders, equipping them for their service mission. The institution strives for excellence and strengthens academic and spiritual growth in the Adventist community.
Written by Sheirah Dhale Mae Pelayo-Cagasan
Photo by SPAC Media
