The brethren of Kawayan District in the East Visayan Conference marked a truly unique occasion. They celebrated the 150th Anniversary of Continuing the Legacy of Sending Missionaries and observed World Pathfinder Day, a dual celebration that defined their commitment to missionary work and the Pathfinder program.
On Sept. 21, 2024, the brethren of Kawayan District gathered at Ungali 1 Covered Court in Kawayan, Biliran, Leyte, for the dual celebration. On the morning of the Sabbath, they conducted a program that looked back at the “pioneers of the Seventh-day Adventist Church” through role-playing as they presented their photos and contributions on screen.
Furthermore, they also played a video presentation from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) that showcased the celebrated anniversary. They furthermore presented the latest updates on Adventist evangelism, sharing information such as the number of unions or conferences under the General Conference of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, its leaders, the number of Adventist schools and hospitals, and the overall number of believers worldwide.
During the Sabbath afternoon, each of the 15 churches in the Kawayan District offered 150 goods of each kind to commemorate the 150th anniversary. Items varied from slippers, table wares, biscuits, and detergent bars to three-kilo rice per bag, juices in tetra packs, and pre-loved items.
Other items include pairs of toothbrushes and toothpaste, ‘puto’ or rice cakes, lunch boxes, choco morons, sugar testing and blood typing kits, a pair of bread and juice, ‘kutsinta’ (a local delicacy), dippers, wash pans, and strainers.
Darwin L. Benaldo, a youth from Bulalacao Church, shared his thoughts on the celebration. “I was deeply touched by the people’s eagerness for spiritual nourishment. Their thirst for the Word of God was evident, and I felt privileged to be a part of that experience. Sharing those goods may just be our small way of sharing our blessings, but it felt like giving the love I have received from God.”
Pastor Aronry Wales, Kawayan District pastor, and his wife expressed their gratitude to the 16 churches in Kawayan District for their unity and active participation in the celebrations.
He also expressed gratitude to the youth who actively participated in this celebration, with particular recognition for the Polaris Master Guide Club, led by Club Director and Master Guide Maribel N. Zipagan.
As the celebration drew to a close, a deep sense of fulfillment filled the hearts of all who participated. To them, the event left each with a deeper understanding of the missionary life and the role of a pathfinder.