Pastor Mariano Salloman Jr., the stewardship director of the Central Philippines Union Conference, emphasized the link between spiritual revival and the practice of returning tithes and offerings during the vesper service of the NOC-wide Regular and Systematic Giving Harvest Celebration on April 5, 2025.
The event, themed “Give God First,” was organized by Pastor Heber Bacolod, the Negros Occidental Conference stewardship director at the Negros Occidental Conference Evangelism Center. It aimed to deepen members’ understanding of this specific approach to church finance, encouraging its consistent practice as an act of worship, and acknowledging God as the owner and provider of our every need.
To commit to regular and systematic giving also highlights one’s total submission and trust in God as the sole owner and provider of every resource. It’s also about sharing and supporting of the multifaceted mission of the Adventist Church worldwide.
The Sabbath School program featured inspiring testimonies from the brethren across different churches, sharing how God blessed them through their faithful return of tithes and offerings.
Guest speaker Pastor Francis Amir, the stewardship ministries director for the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, emphasized that stewardship is a lifestyle rooted in a living relationship with Jesus. He highlighted the importance of accepting Christ’s Lordship and acting as His agents to manage His earthly affairs.
Pastor Amir also said, “Missions are accomplished by the feet of those who go, by the knees of those who stay, and by the pockets of those who contribute.” He encouraged everyone to seek God’s will in every aspect of their lives by being faithful stewards, with God guiding their plans.
Pastor Jophone Galanza, the NOC president, delivered an inspirational message during the commitment service, urging the congregation to support God’s work not just through tithes and offerings but also by investing their resources in His service.
He reminded them that God has given His children talents to use for His glory and assured them that those who sacrifice for God’s sake will receive abundant blessings in return. As it is written in “Testimonies for the Church,” vol. 4, page. 355: “The Lord will prosper them, and their souls will be enriched.”
The program served as a reminder that God is faithful: if we fully support His work, we will experience the rewards He has promised.
Steph Loriezo | Head Writer | Negros Occidental Conference
Th article’s original version was posted on the official Facebook page of the Negros Occidental Conference.