The official newsletter of the South Philippine Union Conference the Seventh-day Adventist church
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SSD Ministerial and Stewardship Summit Kicks Off with More Than 3,000 Delegates Across Southern Asia-Pacific Division
The SSD Ministerial and Stewardship Summit 2026 officially opened at the Basilea Convention Center in Jakarta, Indonesia, bringing together more than 3,000 delegates from 11 countries across the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD). The summit, held from July 28 to August 2, 2026, carries the theme, “Building Up His People.”
The Basilea Convention Center was filled to capacity as pastors, ministerial secretaries, stewardship directors, and church leaders gathered for a week of spiritual renewal, leadership development, and ministry enrichment.
The Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC) is represented by 247 delegates, led by Pastor Jerry Patalinghug, SwPUC President. Joining him are Pastor Arnel Benasahan, SwPUC Ministerial Secretary, and Pastor Michael Capapas, SwPUC Stewardship Director, together with pastors and church leaders from across the union.
Delivering the opening message, Pastor Ramon Canals, General Conference Ministerial Secretary, reminded delegates that the purpose of the summit extends beyond acquiring new knowledge. Drawing from Psalm 63, he challenged pastors to seek a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing that their time together should result in transformation rather than merely information.
“Our greatest need is not simply to know more, but to experience a deeper transformation in Christ,” Canals emphasized, encouraging church leaders to allow God to shape their lives and ministries so they can more effectively build up His people.
Throughout the six-day gathering, delegates will participate in worship services, plenary sessions, seminars, and practical workshops aimed at strengthening pastoral leadership, promoting faithful stewardship, and equipping church leaders for more effective ministry across the Southern Asia-Pacific Division.
As thousands of leaders unite under the theme “Building Up His People,” the summit highlights the church’s commitment to nurturing spiritually vibrant, mission-focused pastors and leaders who will faithfully prepare people for the soon return of Jesus Christ.
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