Following the solemn conclusion of the electoral process that finalized the administrative reorganization of the Central Philippine Union territory, delegates and attendees transitioned into a spirit of worship and thanksgiving as the sun set, ushering in the Sabbath.
Friday evening’s events marked the spiritual culmination of the two-day event, which was the election of pioneering leaders for the new East Central Philippine Union Conference (ECPUC) and the West Central Philippine Union Mission (WCPUM).
The day’s conclusion brought a palpable mix of closure, outlook for the future, and emotional farewells.
The vespers worship program, held at Adventist Academy Cebu in Talisay City, Cebu, gathered together former and current CPUC officers and staff for a special service of worship and thanksgiving expressed primarily through musical presentations. Thus, the special program title was CPUC Family Reunion.
The atmosphere was one of deep nostalgia for once-shared memories and gratitude for the six decades of united ministry under the CPUC banner.
One of the highlights of the musical expression was a moving trio performance by the outgoing CPUC administrative officers: Pastor Eliezer “Joer” Barlizo, Jr., outgoing CPUC president and newly elected ECPUC president; Pastor Calev Maquirang, outgoing CPUC executive secretary, and the newly elected WCPUM executive secretary; and Pastor Renito Inapan, outgoing CPUC treasurer and newly elected ECPUC treasurer.
The performance stirred deep emotion in the assembly, bringing tears to the eyes of many who had shared memories with the ecclesiastically dissolved CPUC.
Pastor Samuel Yotam Bindosano, executive secretary for the Southern Asia-Pacific division, delivered the inspirational message for the special vespers worship.
“Today is a day of reflection and celebration,” he began. He then spoke about how God has sustained and blessed the church for 60 years. Reflecting on God’s faithfulness throughout the years, he offered encouragement by highlighting God’s goodness: “With this assurance, we move forward with stronger faith, deep unity, and a renewed commitment to God’s mission. Grounded in the Bible and focused on our mission, we are all integrated for the mission.”
The Sabbath day featured another highlight, such as “Looking into the Window of CPUC History by Pastor James Rubrico, the retiring CPUC ministerial secretary. In a video report, he discussed how Adventism reached the Philippines, which eventually gave birth to the establishment of today’s CPUC.
In addition, Pastor Mamerto Guingguing II, SSD associate secretary, discussed the background of the CPUC reorganization and the creation of ECPUC and WCPUM, followed by the ceremonial slicing of the cake for CPUC’s 60th anniversary.
Pastor Roger Caderma, the president of the SSD, led the handover ceremony for the newly organized unions, which wassymbolized by the handing over of keys. Following this, the new leaders of ECPUC and WCPUM delivered farewell speeches, pledging their commitment to embrace their leadership roles.
In the afternoon, Pastor Agapito Catane, a retired president of the CPUC, urged everyone to renew their commitment to the mission in his message. He explored the qualities of Christ-centered leadership, highlighting integrity, servanthood, and faithfulness, among others, as essential characteristics of a faithful servant of God.
“True greatness is measured not by how many people serve you, but by how many people you serve,” he stated, highlighting the challenges that leaders must confront. To inspire courage during these difficult times, he shared a reminder of God’s promises found in Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you.”
The new leaders were then dedicated to service, followed by the closing remarks from the presidents of the two new unions.
The Sabbath events concluded with the presentation of plaques and awards to retirees, conference and mission leaders, executive committee members, special donors, and honorees.
In the evening, the delegates will participate in the celebration of the CPUC’s 60th Anniversary, marking the conclusion of this administrative organization and the beginning of the new unions: the ECPUC and the WCPUM.
The evening promises to be a spectacular highlight, as delegates gather for a celebration of the CPUC’s 60th Anniversary. This event serves as a powerful historical marker, simultaneously honoring the CPUC’s rich six-decade legacy and celebrating a new administrative dawn.
Furthermore, the evening will formally conclude the work of the former union and celebrate the official beginning of its successors: the East Central Philippine Union Conference (ECPUC) and the West Central Philippine Union Mission (WCPUM).
Lyn Lucero ⎸ CPUC Communication Department