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Talisay City, Philippines (Aug. 16, 2025) – Hundreds of literature evangelists gathered at the Adventist Academy Cebu International Church in Bulacao, Talisay City, for the CPUC-wide Literature Evangelists Congress.

The three-day event, from Aug. 14 to Aug. 16, brings together literature evangelists, publishing ministry leaders, and directors across the Central Philippine Union Conference. Under the theme "Called to be Faithful," the congress aims to equip and empower attendees for their vital ministry.

The event's central message, "Jesus is Coming, I will Go," delivered a sense of urgency and commitment to sharing the gospel through literature. Its key focus was to "get involved in literature ministry," with the reminder, "Lest we forget Jesus is coming!"

This focus reflected the event's purposes: to strengthen the participants' faith and reignite their passion for evangelism.

The congress is a collaboration between Publishing Ministries and the "Mission Refocus" initiative, led by Pastor Ferdinand Esico, publishing ministries director, and his associate director, Pastor Toneri Gaa.

Dressed in Filipiniana, Barong Tagalog, and other cultural attire, over 200 delegates paraded during the opening ceremony. Their colorful outfits added to the festive atmosphere and vibrancy of the event, especially during the cultural presentation at night.

From the first to the second day, the program featured lectures from a roster of distinguished speakers, reporting, midday meditation, and an open discussion, which deeply inspired the attendees.

Pastor Howard Faigao, former publishing ministries director for the General Conference of the Seventh-Day Adventists, and one of the guest speakers, said, "This meeting is the gathering of the called."

"I am privileged to be here with those working with angels, with those with whom the Holy Spirit is present," he added.

Another guest speaker, Pastor Felixian Felicitas, field secretary of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, discussed the concept of leadership in one of his lectures. He defined leadership as servanthood, drawing from the Greek words "diakonos," which emphasizes humility as an attitude of service, and "doulos," which refers to a service rendered in obedience that involves giving up personal rights.

He then concluded his message with the reminder, saying, "Spiritual leadership should be more of Christ and the Holy Spirit, and none of self."

In one of his lectures, Pastor Rey Cabañero, SSD publishing ministries director, discussed the progress of the publishing ministries of various countries under the SSD. He defined the LEs as courageous, fearless, and bold in sharing the written gospel with all walks of life.

He shared an inspiring story about a top achiever with a speaking disability. Drawing motivation from this example of overcoming challenges, Cabañero encouraged the delegates not to let themselves fall behind.

He quoted a verse from Romans 10:15 stating, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring good tidings of good things."

On the other hand, Sweetie Ritchil, SSD associate treasurer, educated the delegates on financial stewardship and literacy according to the Bible, especially during low sales and high financial needs.

She emphasized the importance of tithing and offerings as an act of faith, encouraging reliance on God's promises of provision.

Ritchil also taught basic ideas about saving money and spending wisely. She highlighted the importance of making and sticking to a budget and staying out of debt. Her entire message, focused on how managing money responsibly based on biblical values, is essential for getting through tough times and showing faithfulness no matter what happens.

Emerson Felicilda, a credentialed literature evangelist under the Central Visayan Conference, shared his thoughts on the event. "I'm so blessed by the event. I sat down and listened carefully, deeply inspired by the messages and words of encouragement."

"Events like this always remind me of how sacred my calling is. I treasure every lesson God teaches me each day, especially in the fields," Felicilda added.

In the afternoon of the Sabbath, top-performing LEs, credentialed LEs, Adventist Publishing Ministries Leaders (APML), and publishing ministries directors were recognized and awarded by category.

Jonathan Lamorin, president-elect of the Adventist-Laymen's Services and Industries for the SSD, challenged the LEs to do better for the next quinquennium. He assured each one he would facilitate and sponsor the rewards to motivate them further.

The event concluded with a commitment service and a dedicatory prayer led by Pastor Faigao. Moved by the Holy Spirit to step forward during the convocation, the participants sang the theme song "I Will Go" one final time with more vigor and sentiment, renewing their commitment to serve the Lord until His return.

Lyn Lucero ⎹ CPUC Communication Department