On the tranquil evening of December 18th, Mallberry Hotel played host to a heartwarming gathering of the dedicated workers of the South Philippine Union Mission Conference (SPUC). It was a night overflowing with gratitude and sincere reflection, as the imminent dissolution of the South Philippine Union Conference loomed in light of the establishment of two newly formed Unions: the South Western Philippine Union Conference (SWPUC) and the South Eastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM). The atmosphere was charged with a bittersweet acknowledgment of the end of an era and the dawn of exciting new beginnings.

The evening's crowning jewel was the esteemed bestowal of recognition upon the tireless workers, each acknowledged for their unwavering commitment and years of service across diverse categories. Their collective efforts in service of the mission have not gone unnoticed, and the night was devoted to honoring their immeasurable contributions.

The air was filled with a sense of solemnity as outgoing Directors took center stage to impart heartfelt parting words. Pr. Rene Rosa, now the Vice President for NDR IEL in SEPUM, humbly credited his election to the grace of God. He beseeched his colleagues for their fervent prayers for himself and his family as he embarked on this new chapter of service. Meanwhile, the former SPUC Publishing Director, Pr. Nilo Mamac, expressed his profound humility in the face of his new calling as President of Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM). Gratitude permeated his words as he reflected on the responsibilities that lie ahead, humbled by the trust placed in him.

A poignant farewell was bid by the newly elected Pr. Jemsly Lantaya, who formerly served as the SPUC Youth Director and has now assumed a vital role within the newly established Mission in the Caraga area. With heartwarming gratitude, he took a moment to express his profound appreciation to his colleagues at SPUC and its administrators for the invaluable seven years of collaboration. Their collective efforts have prepared him for the new and exciting assignment that awaits.

Reliving the journey that brought him to the present moment, Pr. Edwin Magdadaro, the SEPUM Executive Secretary-elect, humorously recounted his initial appointment as the executive secretary of the now-dissolved SPUC, likening it to a surprise vacation. He humbly acknowledged that the position was "undeserved," yet expressed profound gratitude to a higher power for qualifying him for the responsibility that followed. It was a touching and light-hearted moment that encompassed the spirit of humility and thankfulness that permeated the entire evening's proceedings.

In a deeply meditative devotional, Pr. Danielo Palomares, former SPUM President and newly elected President of SEPUM delivered a poignant address, grounding his message in the acronym "GALA." From this platform, he emphasized the pivotal role of God as the paramount driving force behind all endeavors, underscoring the fundamental truth that without divine guidance, all human efforts are rendered futile. It was a powerful reminder of the inherent humility and reliance on higher guidance that lies at the core of their collective mission.

The poignant evening continued with the heartfelt recognition of both departing and remaining workers, each receiving a certificate of appreciation that served as a tangible testament to the immense value of their collective contributions. It was an evening punctuated by gratitude and reverence, a fitting tribute to the end of one chapter and the promising beginning of another.

As the South Philippine Union Mission Conference gathered for this unforgettable night of awards and thanksgiving, an overwhelming sense of gratitude permeated the atmosphere. The end of an era was met with a deep sense of reverence for the past and a profound anticipation for the countless opportunities that lay ahead—the evening encapsulated the spirit of unity, gratitude, and resilience that has been the hallmark of the SPUC, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of their collective mission.

By Roxie Joy Pido
SPUC Com.Dept.