In response to a request from Mt. Olive National High School, the Communication Department of the Southeastern Caraga Mission (SCM) conducted a series of lectures for students and parents on February 27, 2026, at Purok 10, Mt. Olive, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur as part of the school’s initiative to strengthen values formation among young people.
The activity gathered students of Mt. Olive National High School in a lecture program designed to encourage character development, responsible decision-making, and positive leadership among the youth. The outreach was structured by the mission’s Communication Department under the leadership of Pastor Jesreel Mercader, Communication Director of the Southeastern Caraga Mission.
The school requested the lectures as part of its Moral Recovery Program, which aims to guide both students and parents in nurturing ethical values, discipline, and responsible citizenship. Through the partnership of the Communication Department and in collaboration with the Family-life Ministries Department headed by Marchie Mercader, Southeastern Caraga Mission responded by sharing principles that promote moral awareness and character building among the younger generation.
During the program, students were encouraged to reflect on the importance of developing integrity and strong personal values as the foundation for responsible citizens. The activity emphasized that true leadership begins with the ability to lead oneself through discipline, right choices, and respect for others.
The message echoed the biblical counsel found in Proverbs 4:23, which says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” The verse served as a reminder that the values nurtured in the heart shape a person’s actions and influence their future.
Pastor Mercader stressed that moral recovery is closely connected to the development of inner leadership among young people. “Moral recovery begins from within,” Mercader said.
In addition, Pastor Jesreel Mercader emphasizes that “when you learn to lead yourselves by choosing what is right, developing discipline, and standing firm in your values, you cultivate inner leadership that can positively influence your families, school, and community.”
The outreach reflects the mission’s commitment to extend its ministry beyond church programs by partnering with community institutions such as schools. Through initiatives like this, the church seeks to contribute to the holistic development of young people by nurturing moral and spiritual values.
School officials and participating students expressed appreciation for the program, recognizing its relevance in guiding the youth toward responsible choices and positive leadership.
Through collaborative efforts with community partners, the Southeastern Caraga Mission continues to share messages that inspire character development, strengthen families, and encourage young people to become responsible leaders in their communities.
Photo courtesy of Mount Olive National High School
