[Patin-ay, Agusan del Sur. December 7, 2024] In an unprecedented show of solidarity and appreciation, almost 5,000 brethren gathered at Patin-ay Gymnasium of Agusan del Sur within the Southeastern Caraga Mission (SCM) to commemorate a year filled with blessings and accomplishments. The celebration, with the theme “Thanksgiving and Harvest,” was a potent illustration of God’s faithfulness and the steadfast commitment of His people to furthering the mission’s work.
The program marked a pivotal milestone for SCM, highlighting extraordinary accomplishments in just nine months of operation, including record-breaking baptisms and strengthened community engagement under the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM). The celebration resonated with the collective joy of a mission empowered by divine providence and the fervent prayers of its members.
Since its formal establishment, Southeastern Caraga Mission has experienced rapid expansion, emerging as a key player in the area’s evangelism and discipleship efforts. The Thanksgiving Program commended church leaders and their district pastors for their selfless dedication to the objective and purpose, acknowledging the unprecedented success of its nine-month operation, which saw the highest number of baptisms in its history.
The Northeastern Mindanao Mission (NEMM) contributed guest vocals at the ceremony, highlighting the Adventist community’s oneness in aiding the young mission.
The lively musical performance by many choirs, singers, and ensembles from churches was the focal point of the event. Their performances gave the event a sincere and solemn tone that reflected the mission’s overall appreciation of God’s faithfulness.
An atmosphere of reverence and joy was created as the congregation joined in uplifting songs and contemplative choruses.
Based on the Bible, the program’s central message was found in 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
During the event, pastors, leaders, lay members, and newly baptized members offered testimonials that echoed the scripture’s emphasis on the importance of thankfulness as a way of life.
Pastor Danilo Palomares, the president of SEPUM, described the mission’s direction in his message, urging members to be more involved, dedicated, and supportive of the leaders. With an emphasis on education, evangelism, and community outreach, the event provided a thorough report of the mission’s activities from several departments, along with objectives for further expansion and improvement in 2025.
According to Life Sketches, p. 196, “We have nothing to fear for the future, except that we shall forget the way the Lord has led us and His teaching in our past history.”
The audience felt great resonance in this call to action, which inspired them to proceed in unity and faith while relying on God’s ongoing blessings.
The Thanksgiving Program served as an anchor for the entire mission to ponder God’s blessings and make a commitment to doing more work in His vineyard; thus, it was more than just a celebration. The Southeastern Caraga Mission is well-positioned to build on its accomplishments and carry on with its path of faith, service, and development under God’s guidance, emulating the theme of “Thanksgiving and Harvest” for many years to come.
