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A proactive approach to sharing relevant, timely content on social media has led to a direct connection between an urban ministry advocate and the leadership of the province of Biliran, Leyte.

Pastor Ricardo De Asis Jr., church pastor of Ormoc Seventh-day Adventist Church, posted lecture outlines related to mental health on his social media account.

Those posts, addressing pressing governance issues and organizational topics designed to meet the immediate needs of both public and private sectors, caught the attention of barangay officials. This led to an invitation to speak to barangay leaders across the island of Biliran.

Ultimately, on Sept. 24, the targeted digital strategy quickly paid off. Pastor De Asis conducted a seminar titled "Integrity and Accountability as a Pillar of Good Governance" for a gathering of all barangay captains and secretaries from the entire province of Biliran Island in Region 8. His other topic included "Team Strategies for Overcoming Challenges in Government" and other related issues.

The presentation successfully integrated professional and spiritual perspectives, utilizing "What research and studies say?" "What the Bible says?" and "What the Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) says" to frame the discussion.

When asked about strategies for effective elite ministry in urban areas, De Asis said, "We just need to be intentional. Even something as simple as distributing materials on private networks or social media can make a difference. We don't wait for opportunities to come to us or for someone to ask for help. Instead, we go where the people don't."

"If we don't take this proactive approach, we know we can't effectively engage in elite ministry in urban areas. "People are busy; they are constantly chasing time and have their own priorities. Often, they have no idea about what we have to offer, and it's up to us to change that."

De Asis shared that the core idea, inspired by the method of Jesus Christ, is to go where the people are and address their immediate concerns. He emphasized that this method is precisely what Ellen G. White said in her book, "Ministry of Healing," p. 143: "Christ's method alone will give true success in reaching the people." The Savior mingled with people as one who desired their good. He showed sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He invited them, 'Follow Me.'

This targeted digital strategy quickly paid off. Following the event, De Asis confirmed a remarkable outcome: "Now, I am connected to the Province of Biliran through the Barangay League. It is now easier for us to reach more elites."

The incident also highlights how a simple post can turn into an effective digital evangelism.

Lyn Lucero / CPUC Communication Department