SePUM Pathfinder Tactical Inspections Successful
Bring 8 Pathfinders Accept Jesus and His Salvation
As an answer to the call to train the youth via the Pathfinder Program, the most consistent scouting program practiced by Adventist schools in the whole world, the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM) Youth Department under the directorship of Pastor Nilo Seda finished the rounds of inspections to 10 Adventist high schools from April 1 to 17 with the aid of youth directors from different missions or conferences from the bifurcated Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SWPUC) and the SePUM.
April 1 had the opening salvo at North Cotabato Academy at Kimarayag, Pigcawayan, Cotabato, and the succeeding day was at Katingawan Adventist Academy of Purok 8, Midsayap, Cotabato. On April 3, President Roxas Adventist Academy of Cotabato, Inc. at Pres. Roxas and Cotabato showcased their skills best and impressed the inspectors, parents, and all spectators. At the foot of a beautiful volcano, Matutum View Academy had an inspiring performance on the field on April 4. On April 5, Christ the King Academy at Labo, Katangawan, General Santos City, shared their agility to everybody’s delight.
April 8 and April 16 were historical dates in the practice of Pathfinder. South Philippine Adventist College Academy and Max Mirafuentes Academy got similar high scores, and both baptized four precious Pathfinders at the end of the ceremonies. The impact of the program was evident in the words of one Pathfinder’s parent, who said, “I’ve seen my child grow in confidence and faith through the Pathfinder Program. I’m grateful for this opportunity.”
As a first-timer on April 11, Digos Central Adventist Academy, Inc. gave the grandest parade and execution at the huge Davao del Sur Coliseum grounds, while on April 12, the cold mountains of Gambudes, Arakan, Cotabato heard the reverberating yells, drumbeats and commands from Sahmyook International Academy Pathfinders who were merited inspiring commendations. The 15th day of the 4th month became an exciting day for Forest Hills Academy at Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, and they raised flags and loud yells while April 16 delighted every individual at Max Mirafuentes Academy, Tagum City, as 4 Pathfinders accepted Jesus as personal savior through baptism.
Finally, on April 17, Panabo SDA Learning Center, Inc. had their thumping feet and synchronized performances to end the life-saving training season and showcase skills and abilities.
Throughout the visit, the SePUM director, along with the field youth directors, church and school administrators, directors, and officials, took every opportunity to recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of the participating schools and individuals. Numerous citations and awards, including the prestigious Pathfinder Leadership Awards, were bestowed upon Division Leaders, Unit Captains, Guidon Bearers, and Best Pathfinders. The top 20 Pathfinder Theoretical Exam scorers were also honored, along with Band Members and Pathfinder Directors. Additionally, plaques of appreciation were presented to the schools for their active participation and contribution to the program.
The evaluating team composed of SePUM Youth Directors were: Pr. Irnie Hemoroz of Davao Mission (DM); Pr. Vicente Hulguin of Northern Davao Mission (NDM); Pr. Zaldy Demagnaong from the South Central Mindanao Mission (SCMM); Pr. Minoru Efren Estrada from Southeastern Caraga Mission (SeCM); and Pr. Joel Nacubuan of Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM).
In some instances, youth directors from neighboring SwPUC and other guests were invited to join the assessment, including Pr. Jemsly Lantaya, who once served as our Mindanao-wide youth director for 13 years before his new assignment as President of SeCM.
The Pathfinder program is not just a scouting activity; it is a spiritual journey for our youth. It is designed to teach children Christian values, manners, discipline, and physical skills that will prepare them to live a rich life, firm in Christ and of better service to others in need. This unique yet organized activity is a testament to our commitment to the holistic development of our youth. It inspires each young person to ‘let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 1 Timothy 4:12-13 (NKJV) ‘. We believe that by supporting the Pathfinder Program, we are investing in the spiritual growth and future of our church and our community.
“True education” is the harmonious development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers. It prepares the student for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of wider service in the world to come.”––Ellen G. White, Education, p. 13 (SePUM Communication)