BAYUGAN CITY, AGUSAN DEL SUR — A spirit of discipline, unity, and strong faith filled the grounds of Forest Hills Academy of Bayugan, Inc. and Mt. Olive Laymen’s Academy as they hosted the recent union-wide Pathfinder Tactical Inspection, a significant event that brought together students committed to service, excellence, and mission.
Representing the Southeastern Caraga Mission (SCM), the two academy stood with pride as they participated in this large-scale inspection organized under the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission. The event served not only as a measure of skill and preparedness but also as a reaffirmation of the Pathfinders’ commitment to holistic development; physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually.
The inspection drew the presence of leaders in the Pathfinder ministry, including Southern Asia Pacific Division (SSD) Pathfinder Coordinator Pastor Anukul Ritchil, Union Youth Director Pastor Nelo Seda Jr., and youth directors from various missions across the union. Their presence underscored the importance of the program and provided encouragement to both leaders and Pathfinders alike.
From the early hours of the day, the campuses transformed into training grounds where precision, teamwork, and discipline were put on full display. Pathfinders, clad in their uniforms, executed drills with remarkable coordination. Every command sound with purpose, every movement reflected training, and every participant embodied the ideals of the Pathfinder pledge and law.
More than just a technical evaluation, the tactical inspection highlighted the deeper mission of the Pathfinder ministry. It is not merely about drills and formations but about shaping young lives to become faithful servants of God and responsible citizens of society.
In the writings of Ellen G. White, she emphasizes the value of training young people for service: “With such an army of workers as our youth, rightly trained, might furnish, how soon the message of a crucified, risen, and soon-coming Saviour might be carried to the whole world!” This powe
rful statement resonated throughout the event, reminding everyone present that these young Pathfinders are not just participants in a program, they are future leaders in God’s work.
The inspection point from marching drills to emergency response simulations was carried out with diligence and seriousness. The evaluators carefully observed not only technical accuracy but also attitude, cooperation, and leadership. It became evident that the Pathfinders were not only trained to perform but also to lead with integrity and humility.
Forest Hills Academy and Mt. Olive Laymen’s Academy demonstrated exceptional preparation, showcasing the commitment of the students. Their participation reflected the collective effort of the Academy and Southeastern Caraga Mission in nurturing a generation grounded in faith and equipped for mission.
The presence of experienced leaders like Pastor Ritchil and Pastor Seda brought inspiration and guidance. Their interaction with the Pathfinders, through observation, encouragement, and mentorship left a lasting impact. For many of the young participants, it was a moment of affirmation, knowing that their efforts were seen and valued at the highest levels of the church organization.
Beyond the structured activities, what truly stood out was the visible transformation in the Pathfinders themselves. Confidence radiated from their faces, discipline shaped their actions, and a sense of purpose guided their participation. These are the quiet victories that cannot always be measured by scores but are deeply felt in the hearts of those who witness them.
Pastor Anukul remind the young minds to, “Always keep your eyes on Jesus, you (Pathfinders) can bring light to the World, you can find the right path and help the people in darkness and always be an example in action and in words.”
Aiming the young people striving to stand firm in truth, courage, and faith, the inspection concluded, more than results and evaluations. It left a renewed vision. It reminded leaders of their responsibility to guide, to mentor, and to inspire. It reminded the youth of their calling not just to excel in drills, but to live lives that reflect Christ.
This union-wide Pathfinder Tactical Inspection 2026 was not just an event; it was a testimony. A testimony that even in a changing world, there remains a generation willing to stand, to serve, and to surrender their lives for a greater purpose.
And as the sun slowly set over the campuses, casting golden hues over the grounds where boots had marched and voices had echoed, one truth lingered in the air; these young Pathfinders are more than participants in a program. They are living answers to a prayer, rising witnesses of faith, and the quiet hope of a mission that continues to press forward.
For in their discipline, we see dedication. In their unity, we see strength. And in their strong commitment to God, we see a future that is not only promising but powerful.
Because when a young heart is trained for service, anchored in Christ, and set ablaze with purpose, it does not merely walk, it leads. And one day, it will carry the message of hope to places yet unreached, fulfilling the mission with courage, conviction, and love.
