A spiritual tide surged—Adventist Churches in Northeastern Mindanao Mission (NEMM) culminated a weeklong simultaneous evangelism campaign that left an indelible mark on the lives of 1,235 souls on July 13, 2024— who chose to embrace Jesus Christ through baptism. This remarkable event rippled through every corner like a gentle wave of grace and a symphony of hope.
The simultaneous evangelistic seminar was organized by Northeastern Mindanao Mission (NEMM) departments, and Pastor Dan Smith and his team orchestrated the evangelistic efforts and initiatives. The event took place from July 7-13, 2024. The program empowered the local community and mobilized the young people to spread the message of hope and salvation rooted in Christ.
Additionally, in full collaboration with different Adventist churches, this evangelistic seminar administered an integrated approach to the ministry. The weeklong seminar involved various initiatives, including physical and virtual programs with the theme “The Search 2024: Hope is Here,” broadcasted through Hope Channel South Philippines’ Facebook and YouTube channels and Northeastern Mindanao Mission of Seventh-day Adventists. This comprehensive strategy aimed to transcend the physical walls, allowing the timeless message of hope and salvation to reach far beyond.
The evangelistic seminar featured Pastor Dan Smith (Global Evangelist of The Quiet Hour), the event speaker, who preached each evening from July 7–13, 2024, at Mega Church, Sitio Kinabutan, Brgy. Rizal, Surigao City—sat before a diverse congregation with unwavering conviction, centered his seminar on hope, a lifeline that tethers to eternity, and whose words carried a profound message. Pastor Dan aims to make God’s message more accessible in a multilingual context, so in collaboration with Pastor Jerrymil Pamonag, South-Western Philippine Union Conference, Vice President for NDR/IEL, as the translator and interpreter, he paves the way for understanding through a local dialect. With Pastor Dan Smith, speakers from different areas under the Northeastern Mindanao Mission and their translators, designated within NEMM territories, became a blessing, proclaiming the good news and promise of God’s faithfulness.
Pastor Cirilo Ba-al, Northeastern Mindanao Mission (NEMM) president, expressed his wholehearted gratitude, appreciation, and congratulations to everyone— to all the church leaders, the cooperation of the twenty-two districts, the local churches, and the young people who made a profound contribution to the resonating success of the event.
As the evangelistic seminar progressed, it was more than an assembly— it was a divine appointment where believers and seekers converged. Families, friends, and strangers of all ages gather and sit side by side, hungry for truth. The air buzzed with anticipation, hearts open to the Gospel’s melody of various singing groups with dynamic and uplifting voices. Singers like
Here I am, Send Me (HISM) of the One Thousand Missionary Movement; Glanzen singers and Grace Force Quartet (GFQ) took the stage, and their voices echoed across the venue. They touched many hearts and weaved stories of redemption, grace, hope, and eternal love through their voices and gifts in music.
The seminar encourages authenticity in faith, which leads to transformation. Attendees are invited to wrestle with doubts, seek genuine encounters with God, and also foster community. Attendees connect with fellow seekers, forming bonds that extend beyond the event. “In a world filled with questions, doubts, and uncertainties, the unlocking truth in this evangelistic seminar seeks to provide clarity, hope, and purpose.” Pastor Dan Smith emphasizes the objectives of this transformative event. It brings together seekers, believers, and curious minds to explore the profound message of hope and the Gospel of Christ. “The Gospel extends an invitation to receive God’s grace and forgiveness. It’s not about earning salvation but accepting it as a gift.” Pastor Dan Smith stated.
Overflowed with gratitude, Pastor Lonie Cena, Northeastern Mindanao Mission (NEMM) Health Director and NDR-IEL Director, expressed his acknowledgment to God for the fantastic opportunity and success of the evangelistic seminar. The dedication and cooperation of our beloved administrators and dear chapter officers and members, the various local churches and districts, and everyone who engaged in thorough preparations through steadfast prayers, financial support, active involvement, valuable efforts, and imparted time, ideas, and resources contributed significantly to the tremendous success of the event. And God is the most significant contributor to the event’s remarkable triumph.
Furthermore, the impact of the evangelistic event is fortified by hearing inspiring testimonies of individuals with transformed lives. As testimonies echoed, we glimpsed grace and their stories woven into the fabric of redemption. In celebration of success and amid jubilation, the Adventist community recognized the significance of nurturing the newly baptized individuals. The commitment of care groups and continued support in helping them grow in Christ pledges and imparts knowledge and guidance on their spiritual journey.
The Search 2024: Hope is Here isn’t just a seminar or any evangelistic event; it’s an invitation to explore the depths of faith, encounter God, and find purpose. Whether you’re a skeptic, a seeker, or a seasoned believer, this seminar promises enlightenment, hope, and transformation. (By Jeia Napalan, News Writer, Comm. Dept.)
