Gratitude and praise overflowed at South Philippine Adventist College (SPAC) as the campus community, alumni, and guests gathered for the first Thanksgiving Sabbath worship inside the newly constructed SPAC Church on October 11. The event carried the inspiring theme, "We Saw, We Believe, We Testify," which was echoed in the messages shared by various speakers throughout the celebration.
This Sabbath marked the first time the partially completed SPAC Church—now on its Phases 1–3 of construction—was used for worship after years of gathering in temporary venues. The new sanctuary stands as a tangible symbol of faith and restoration following the loss of the La Sage Auditorium, affectionately known as "Audie," which had been declared unsafe after the 2019 earthquake that shook much of Mindanao.
A Historic and Emotional Gathering
Since the school's founding in the 1950s, Audie has served as the heart of worship and student life at SPAC, hosting generations of Sabbath services, chapel programs, and graduations. Its closure after the devastating December 15, 2019 6.9 magnitude earthquake was a profoundly emotional loss to the campus family. Thus, the first worship in the new SPAC Church was filled with heartfelt thanksgiving, rekindling hope among students, staff, alumni, and friends of the institution.
The historic Sabbath brought together SePUM Executive Secretary Pr. Edwin Talledo Magdadaro, who delivered the Hour of Worship message, alongside his wife, Ms. Lindy Lou Siban-Magdadaro. Also present from the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM) were Dr. Perlyn Padiz-Panes and her husband Jezreel, Communication and PARL Director Rhoen Catolico with his wife Anily Mae Tibay-Catolico, and Mr. Joenary Lomocso with his wife.
Representing the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SWPUC) were Pr. Roxie Pido and Dr. Alevir Perez-Pido, who joined the celebration to express gratitude for God's sustaining grace.
Adding to the occasion's significance was the presence of Dr. Jonathan Catolico, SPAC's first president, whose early leadership helped lay the foundation of the institution. His attendance symbolized continuity and divine providence across generations of SPAC's history.
A Sabbath of Praise and Testimony
The entire day resonated with thanksgiving and testimonies. In the afternoon, various singing groups and alumni presented special musical numbers, celebrating God's faithfulness through the years. The SPAC Mass Choir offered a moving rendition of "My Tribute," their heartfelt voices blending in gratitude to the Lord for "the great things He has done" for the institution.
With the graceful strains of music soaring through the air, a symphony of praise unfolded as jubilant musicians and singers offered their heartfelt worship throughout the ceremony. From the stirring harmonies of the SPAC Chamber Ensemble to the radiant voices of the Little Heralds, D’Voices Chorale, Animo Voces, Astral Echoes, Southern Ambassador, and My Redeemer’s Symphony, each group poured out reverberating melodies that lifted spirits and echoed with joy, weaving a tapestry of sound that celebrated faith, unity, and divine grace.
Behind this significant achievement stood Pr. Zarcarias Escobidal, SPAC Church pastor and Alumni Relations Officer, who, along with the engineers and construction team, led the implementation of the ongoing project.
A Testament of Faith Restored
Though unfinished, the SPAC Church now stands as a monument of thanksgiving, perseverance, and faith. It represents not only a structure rebuilt but a community renewed—a testimony that even in times of shaking, God's work continues.
As the congregation reflected on the theme "We Saw, We Believe, We Testify," they were reminded that the story of SPAC is one of enduring faith—a living witness to God's unfailing goodness through every challenge and every triumph.
