Pastor Saw Samuel conveyed a message at the Commitment and Service event, which brought together leaders from the union, missions, and conferences on Thursday evening, March 7, 2024, at SWPUC Garden Church. During his address, he emphasized the importance for leaders to reflect on their calling and purpose in ministry.

"The church is organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. The church exists for the mission. We exist for the mission, not mission exists for us," he said.

In his opening remarks, Pastor Samuel extended his gratitude to SWPUC for the unwavering support during his tenure as the president of the Southern Asia Pacific Division from 2016 to 2022. He, originally from Myanmar, transitioned from being the former president of the SSD to assuming the role of Associate Secretary for the General Conference in Maryland since 2022.

He mentioned the recent split of the former South Philippine Union Conference into two unions: one in the west and the other in the east, specifically in Mindanao. He expressed his support for this decision and expanded on the reasons behind the territorial realignment, underscoring spiritual, leadership, and mission growth. The emphasis lies not in creating positions but in nurturing a sincere passion for the mission. He advocated for an infrastructure centered on service rather than a hierarchical structure, as well as integration over competition. He further stressed that the ultimate goal is not merely membership but, at its core, discipleship.

Continuing with his message, Pastor Samuel elaborated on his main point by drawing insights from the experiences of Paul.

"To Paul, God's grace is not only transforming him, changing him, or using him powerfully to convert people to Christ. It isn't just about performing miracles and wonders, but for Paul, God's grace is when he is imprisoned, chained, beaten. He was still able to praise God. To him, it was grace," he uttered.

Pastor Samuel stated that certainly, Paul endured significant suffering for the church without complaint, demonstrating his dedication founded on his profound understanding of his Master.

Knowing our Master, as he highlighted, is the key to understanding our mission. It is important to be aware of our calling, purpose, and character. To be effective witnesses, he stressed the importance of aligning our lives with Christ's character.

In his conclusion, Pastor Samuel reminded leaders to engage in self-reflection, commit to personal growth, and surrender to the Lord. The question posed was, "What character do I need to have or change?"

Following Pastor Samuel's message, SSD Treasurer Pastor Jacinto Adap guided the litany and charge, followed by a brief appeal from Pastor Roger Caderma, the SSD president, seeking God's guidance, presence, and protection. 

"We have to seek wisdom, to make decisions aligned with the will of God," Caderma uttered. 

The purpose of the program was to impart blessings upon the recently elected administrators and directors within SWPUC, supporting them as they embark on leading in their respective territories for the next two years.

By Quin Salarda
SwPUC Communication Dept.