Mountain View College recently became the focal point of the Seventh-day Adventist community as representatives from various regions of Southern Asia gathered for the SSD-Wide Congress. This congress brought together thousands of delegates who participated in discussions and activities to strengthen their faith and commitment to the Lord.
Among the notable guests at the congress were Senators Imee Marcos and Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, whose presence brought a wave of inspiration to the attendees. Their addresses left a lasting impact on the congregation, highlighting their profound respect and admiration for the Adventist community.
During their addresses, the senators commend the Seventh-day Adventist community’s steadfast faith and commitment to their purpose in sharing Jesus with all generations.
Senator Imee Marcos gave out the fabled “Nutri Bun” as a sign of sustenance and unity. The “Nutri-bun” was first introduced by the regime of the late President Ferdinand Marcos in the 1970s to combat malnutrition in Filipino children especially. This action demonstrated by Senator Marcos is a continuity of her dedication to eradicating hunger and advancing children’s nutrition.
Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa also took the stage with a message underscoring the significance of spiritual resilience and societal contribution.
“I’m proud of the seventh day adventist people, sa tanan nako nga nakaila nga seventh day adventist church! Sa akong na meet nga mga adventist nga tao, wala koy nasugatan nga dautan. Halos mga tarong! I admire you (adventist) lalo sa mga advocacy nyo sa church nyo, to keep everyone healthy, not only physical and mental but spiritual health, and dahil dyan, pareha rjud ta ninyo ug gusto” Senator Dela Rosa Said. His words encouraged the delegates to continue their dedicated efforts in community service, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility among the attendees.
Significant people such as Senators Marcos and Dela Rosa provided a fresh depth to this year’s event, urging attendees to strengthen their devotion to the Lord, reach out more in their community, and continue to live as Jesus did. Marcos and Dela Rosa’s admonition as country leaders greatly blessed the attendees. Despite the explicit declaration of the separation of church and state, the senators requested that the Adventists continue to be a positive example in and outside the community. Senator Marcos declared that she is with (the Adventists) in the belief that our Lord will return soon.
“I wanted to join a congregation such yours (Adventist) who truly believe that the advent is upon us, and Jesus the Lord is coming; I join you profoundly and deeply,” Senator Marcos said.
As the congress progressed, delegates participated in various workshops, activities, and breakout sessions to empower and prepare them for their spiritual journeys. The event demonstrated the power of communal faith and the lasting impact of dedicated service within the Adventist community.
The SSD-Wide Congress provided a platform for learning and camaraderie, emphasizing the members’ common objective: to be Christ-disciple and disciple others. The delegates have refocused the mission to win souls in a more Christlike way and be more prepared to make reasonable changes to their communities while reflecting Jesus’ ideas and values. (by Geraldine Ba-al, News Writer, Comm. Dept.)
