The Education Department of the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference celebrated 150 years of Adventist education, beginning in 1874 with the establishment of Battle Creek College in Michigan, United States. With 9,845 educational institutions in over 100 countries, the Seventh-day Adventist Church is recognized as the second-large education system in the world today. 

The celebration, themed "Reaffirming the Vital Role of Adventist Education in Fulfilling the Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church," took place on December 7, 2024. Schools within the SwPUC territory held their own separate celebrations at their campuses.

SwPUC Communications Director, Pr. Roxie Joy Pido, delivered a message to the students of Golden Boulevard Adventist Elementary School at the SwPUC Garden Church in Cagayan De Oro. During the program, Pastor Pido encouraged the young audience to remain faithful followers of God: "Dream big, work hard, and trust God to lead you every step of the way." He reflected on Luke 2:52, giving relevance to the essence and legacy of Adventist education. The event also featured students rendering musical performances and speeches. 

"What I like most here are the religious programs because we are given opportunities to participate, whether it’s singing, speaking, praying, or other religious activities. I also love the Bible lessons and studies, and we even have a dedicated Bible subject. This school will not only prepare you for life in this world but also for heaven," said Glocyril Franchesca Galamiton, a sixth-grade student from the said elementary school.

Historical Perspectives 

"The ultimate educational aim is service. But being able to serve implies training in both the intellectual and moral realms," Adventist scholar George Knight wrote in his essay on the history of Adventist education.

Early Adventists were initially hesitant about formal education; they believed it unnecessary in light of Christ's return. But pioneer leaders like James and Ellen White viewed that the church must give value to refining minds and preparing individuals for Christ's return. As the church expanded its mission work in the 1870s, the Adventist leaders established schools to train church workers. Battle Creek College was opened in 1874. Leaders realized that, indeed, a school can be a powerful tool to inculcate Adventist teachings and values.

In the 20th century, Adventist education adapted to changing times, professionalizing its programs and pursuing accreditation to meet legal and professional standards. Ellen White encouraged these changes in order for students to remain competitive while the education system stayed true to its mission and identity. In other words, there must be balance in academic rigor, character development, and a biblical worldview to maintain the distinctiveness of Adventist education.

SwPUC Education Director, Dr. Alevir Pido, reiterating White's statement, mentioned the importance of embracing advancements such as artificial intelligence while remaining faithful to Adventist values and identity. She also appreciated the fact that Adventist education is both intentional and resilient and able to have significant global impact with the large budget allocated to its operation in the past 150 years.

"Adventist schools are not merely educational institutions; they are ministries integral to the church itself," she added.

By Quin Salarda
SwPUC ComDept.