News

West Visayan Conference celebrated the individuals and teams who made 2024 a success with the first-ever Huwaran Awards Night. Held on Jan. 6, 2025, at the Smallville 21 Hotel in Iloilo City, the event honored those who significantly contributed throughout the year, giving thanks to God above all.

The Huwaran Awards program is designed to recognize individuals and teams whose outstanding achievements inspire excellence and create a ripple effect of positive influence.

This initiative aims to enhance district and church performance while fostering greater member engagement. By acknowledging exceptional service, the awards program cultivates a culture of appreciation, motivating everyone to give their best and embody the spirit of being "Huwaran"—a role model in faith and service.

A range of awards was presented, including the Centenarian Award for districts that brought 100 or more precious souls to Christ in 2024. Other awards included the "Worship Group Award or Church Planting Award," given to churches that expanded their reach through new worship groups.

The Publishing Certified Church Award distinguishes congregations strongly committed to literature evangelism. This honor was bestowed upon churches where at least 80% of the members actively shared their faith through literature distribution.

The Creative Ministry Awards celebrate initiatives demonstrating innovation and impactful community service. These awards acknowledged a variety of ministries, including Adventist Possibilities Ministries, which empower individuals with disabilities, and Literacy Programs with Mission, which combine the crucial skill of reading with outreach and service to those in need.

Pastor Kerry Estrebilla, WVC president and the event's devotional speaker, shared his impression of this program. He said, "This is such a wonderful program. We are being reminded that excellence is a reflection of how we worship God. No one can afford to worship God in a mediocre way but in the best way. Let us strive to be excellent and "huwaran" in all aspects."

A special dedicatory prayer highlighted the event, with pastors encircling and praying over leaders, elders of each district, and executive committee members. The prayer offered a solemn moment, invoking God's guidance for continued service and success in 2025.

The night concluded with a fellowship dinner and heartfelt testimonies from the awardees, sharing stories of challenges and triumphs in their ministry.

The success and growth of the West Visayan Conference in 2024 were not achieved alone but through the unwavering support, leadership, and service of the brethren across all districts. Moreover, the Huwaran Awards Night was a testament to the power of collective dedication to God's work.

By Catherine Princetia Bernal

The original version of this article is published on the official Facebook page of the West Visayan Conference.