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BAYAWAN CITY, Negros Oriental — On the second Sabbath since the launch of the OneVoice27: Mission for All initiative on Sept. 5, the Bayawan District of the Seventh-day Adventist Church reaffirmed its commitment to digital evangelism. 

The district members continued sharing message of hope through its digital platforms while continuing its scheduled traditional methods of evangelism. 

During the global launch of OneVoice27 on September 5, 2026, themed “All Things New: Hope Starts Here,” district members of all ages gathered together at Bayawan Central Church for the event. They all took part in the program, each offering its own contribution. 

Pastor Joel Ceniza, branch manager of the Philippine Publishing House in the Negros Oriental-Siquijor Mission, delivered the main message on the purpose of One Voice 27, emphasizing the importance of unity in carrying out the church’s mission.

In a separate interview, Ceniza further explained the initiative’s call for unity and emphasized the role of digital platforms in reaching people beyond geographical boundaries.

“Gusto sa atong Ginoo nga usa ka tingog, usa ka tumong, usa ka mensahe mao ang atong pagadad-on ngadto sa kalibutan,” Ceniza said. (The Lord wants us to bring one voice, one goal, one message to the world,” Ceniza said. 

He quoted 1 Corinthians 1:10, which calls believers to be united in mind and purpose. He also highlighted digital platforms as outreach tools. “The digital world has no limits and no boundaries,” he said. Digital platforms go beyond increasing the church’s visibility; they focus on connecting people with the message of God’s love.

“Dili tungod kay gusto ta nga daghan nga makakita kanato, kon dili gusto nato nga daghan nga tawo ang atong maabtan, aron sila maka-hibalag sa Ginoo nga nahigugma kanila,” Ceniza said. (It is not because we want many people to see us, but because we want to reach many people so that they can experience the Lord who loves them.)

He further explained that the emphasis on reaching others reflects the Great Commission in Mark 16:15, where Jesus instructed His followers to preach the gospel to all creation.

As part of the launch, members received commitment cards, allowing them to decide whether to commit personally to the initiative. They also joined the social media campaign using the hashtag #AllThingsNew.

Moreover, speakers during the launch explained that the theme “All Things New: Hope Starts Here” is rooted in the biblical message of renewal found in 2 Corinthians 5:17, which describes those who are in Christ as a new creation.

Ultimately, the district launch concluded with the singing of the One Voice 27 theme song, marking the beginning of the Bayawan District churches’ continued participation in the initiative.

“We will commit to the initiative, not just until its culmination in Sept. 2027, but until Jesus' return,” a church officer said. 

Overall, the Bayawan District of Negros Oriental reaffirmed its commitment to share that Jesus makes all things new and that hope starts with Him.

Geneper S. Ansula ⎸ Bayawan District ⎸ Negros Oriental-Siquijor Mission