The Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC) has officially commenced its Midyear Meeting, which will run from May 26–28, 2026, at the SwPUC Compound. Gathering lay executive committee members alongside mission and institutional administrators, the event is anchored on the bold theme, "Mission First," and the driving slogan, “Mission Reach 2026: Reaching the Unreached.” This highly anticipated assembly features a packed agenda of critical reports, leadership directives, and the approval of new strategic plans to align the union's future efforts.

Preaching the Good News Amidst Crisis
Pastor Jerry Patalinghug, President of SwPUC, set the spiritual tone with an urgent keynote message rooted in Matthew 6:33, reminding delegates that when the church prioritizes God’s mission, all other needs are met. Acknowledging earthly challenges such as recent calamities and rising costs, Pastor Patalinghug framed these crises not as reasons to despair but as the "footsteps of a coming God." He urged the delegation to preach the Good News with joy, energy, and relentless passion.

To effectively reach unentered territories, the SwPUC President stressed the importance of deploying enthusiastic "Care Groups" to ensure missionaries do not face the work alone. Furthermore, he highlighted the need for strategic collaboration and digital media training to propel the One Voice 27: Mission for All initiative.

Becoming God’s Helping Hand
Drawing from the Spirit of Prophecy, visual presentations reminded delegates that "all who engage in ministry are God's helping hand" and "co-workers with the angels" (Education, p. 271). Emphasizing that members must be equipped for this work, Pastor Patalinghug introduced the CLOSE acronym to define the character needed for mission:

C - oncern for others

L - ife-giving fragrance

O - bedient

S - incere

E - ndurance

“It pays to serve Jesus, but also in serving Jesus, serve the people around us. Mission First!” Pastor Patalinghug poignantly concluded.

SwPUC leaders remain dedicated to translating this spiritual charge into actionable strategies, ensuring that reaching the unreached remains the ultimate priority for 2026.