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Aiming to promote spiritual renewal and strengthen family bonds, the Cebu City Seventh-day Adventist Church in Cebu City held a "Family Togetherness Week of Prayer," followed by a family night.

Under the theme "God's Greatest Gifts," the week-long prayer meetings took place from Aug. 31 to Sept. 6, 2025, with Pastor Dianito Pantaleon, CCSDA church pastor, serving as the gospel speaker.

Other evening speakers shared their knowledge and expertise, discussing topics related to health and wellness. These discussions aimed to introduce Christian habits of a healthy diet and lifestyle as God's design for human well-being.

These topics also reechoed Ellen G. White's counsel in her book "Counsels on Diet and Food," where she encouraged a balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise, rest, and a strong connection to nature.

Her teachings also emphasized the importance of moderation and the avoidance of excess, promoting a holistic approach to health that integrates physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions

After its culmination on the Sabbath, church members gathered for a celebration they called "Family Night," enjoying and having fun together at the Adventist Hospital Cebu's recreational center.

The family night preceded with an evening devotional where Pantaleon spoke about the importance of harmonious family relationships grounded in God's love.

In his message, he reminded listeners that God intends for earthly families to reflect His love and compassion. "A Christ-centered family," he said, "is not defined solely by blood relations but is rooted in grace, where patience, forgiveness, and kindness are practiced every day.

"This divine design allows families to serve as a testimony to God's goodness and creates a safe environment for faith to flourish," he added.

He also emphasized what the Bible reminds us in Colossians 3:14: "And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."

Attendees enjoyed a fellowship dinner, participated in games, and watched presentations from various church departments. A raffle draw highlighted the event, awarding prizes such as a Lazyboy chair to lucky participants.

The celebration concluded with remarks from Wendell Ganhinhin, head elder of CCSDA Church, and Dr. Evelyn Pepito, head deaconess and music department leader, who expressed gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to the event's success.

For the CCSDA Church, it was a memorable day reaffirming the unbreakable bond of being one family in Christ.

By Rhea Mae Antoni & Lea Jane Salud / Cebu City SDA Church

The article's original version was published on the official Facebook page of Cebu City Seventh-Day Adventist Church.