The East Visayan Conference (EVC) hosted its first Treasurer’s Summit, Bi-Cluster Stewardship, and Church Leadership Seminar from Feb. 12 to 14 at HFL Farm in Barangay Libtong, San Miguel, Leyte.
More than 350 delegates—including elders, treasurers, and church officers—gathered for the event.
During the opening night, Pastor Ildefonso Baquilabat, East Central Philippine Union Conference field secretary and stewardship director, delivered a message titled “Being an Adventist Leader vs. Being a Christian Leader.” In his address, he explained the difference between these two, wherein true Christian leaders are those who follow Christ’s example, live like Jesus, and do their work under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. On the other hand, there are leaders who are proud to belong to God’s true church, yet, deep in their hearts, they are not truly following Christ.
“We may belong to God’s true church, but that alone does not automatically make us Christians,” Pastor Baquilabat said. “Therefore, let us strive to be genuine Christian leaders, and God will help us become faithful and effective Adventist leaders.”
He challenged the participants with the statement: “Some prefer to die as an Adventist rather than die as a Christian. What about us?”
During the Sabbath worship service, the hall reached capacity with more than 800 attendees. The turnout made the Sabbath celebration one of the most well-attended gatherings.
Pastor Renito Inapan, ECPUC treasurer, delivered the Divine Service message, which centered on the topic “Faithful Stewards, Trusted Servants.” He underscored the importance of remaining faithful until the return of Christ, encouraging members to be steadfast in returning tithes and offerings despite economic challenges.
Quoting from “Christ’s Object Lessons,” he said, “It is faithfulness in the smallest duties that prepares us for greater responsibilities.” He also cited “Counsels on Stewardship,” noting that believers are entrusted with time, talents, and means for which they are held accountable.
Throughout the seminar, delegates expressed appreciation for the messages. Many participants affirmed their commitment to apply the principles in their daily lives as they prayerfully await the return of Jesus Christ.
“The seminar was really a great blessing to me, for through it I’ve learned more practical insights about leadership and giving,” stated Joselito Bachinela, a church elder from San Miguel. “Thanks be to God for knowing that giving our offerings lies through faithfulness and failing to tell others means accountability.”
Furthermore, he expressed his appreciation for gaining a deeper understanding of Christian perfection and of God’s character as a God of love.
The ECPUC expressed gratitude to the leadership of the East Visayan Conference, spearheaded by Pastor Samuel Salloman, EVC president. Their collaboration and support in preparing for and during the event enabled the summit to achieve its objective of strengthening leadership accountability and inspiring the church toward a deeper commitment to stewardship.
They also recognized the district pastors for their encouragement and effective dissemination, which resulted in a large delegation. For them, this turnout demonstrates exemplary pastoral and leadership care, highlighting deep spiritual hunger among the members and strong trust in the conference’s leadership and vision.
Mara R. Rodriguez ⎸ East Visayan Conference