The East Visayan Conference (EVC) hosted an Adventist-laymen’s Services and Industries – Adventist Professionals (ASI-Ad Pro) Convention from July 26 to 27, 2025, at HFL Farm in Brgy. Libtong, San Miguel, Leyte. It culminated in the two notable events: the baptism of 50 individuals and a fun run activity on Sunday.
Over 950 professionals and businesspeople across the EVC attended the event, aiming to uplift each other, learn more, and be further empowered for elite evangelism.
Elite evangelism is a ministry aimed at the higher classes, the influential people, the business groups, and the professionals.
As Ellen White says in her book “Testimony for the Church,” chapter 14, “There are many like Cornelius, men whom He desires to connect with His church. Their sympathies are with the Lord’s people. But the ties that bind them to the world hold them firmly.”
The passage further stated that special efforts should be made for these souls, who are in so great danger because of their responsibilities and associations.
Understanding this and many other passages emphasizing elite evangelism, in addition to God’s great commission stated in Matthew 28:16-20, events like this ASI-Ad Pro convention in Leyte are organized.
The event, themed “Urban Mission: Now is the Time, I Will Go!” featured inspiring messages and testimonies from a lineup of distinguished speakers.
One of those empowering messages was from Jonathan Lamorin, president-elect of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division for the ASI.
It centered on the title “Jesus Is Coming, I Will Go!” emphasizing Jesus’ nearing return and the part His children must play as faithful stewards. As commissioned, they should continue their zeal in the mission and ask God fervently for wisdom while actively doing His work.
He quoted Revelation 22:12, which says, “And behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.”
“There are challenging times ahead, but let us refrain from expressing any doubt or discouragement,” Lamorin said, referencing “Christian Service,” p. 136. He further encouraged everyone to share the three angels’ messages found in Revelation 14:6-12 with the entire world, always in the framework of hope.
Another highlight of the event was the baptism of 50 individuals held on Sabbath afternoon. Pastors Jessie Garzon and Roland Rodriguez, district pastors of EVC, conducted the ceremony in the presence of the event’s attendees.
On Sunday morning, the delegates gathered again for a recreational initiative—a fun run. It aimed to cap off the weekend’s spiritual revival with physical activity, fellowship, and fun.
From kids to seniors, everyone participated, embodying the Adventist commitment to holistic living—caring for both body and soul.
“The fun run also demonstrated that taking care of our bodies and souls is essential for becoming effective missionaries and setting a good example for others,” one of the runners said.
Pastor Emmanuel Paul Barcenas, EVC ASI Ad Pro coordinator, reflected on the event, stating, “This convention is truly a powerful and spirit-filled gathering. Although this organization is relatively new in EVC, it still brought amazing results—our ASI and ADPRO members are now more empowered and equipped for ministry and evangelism.”
Barcenas also added that this event has united the church members with a renewed passion and clearer focus on urban mission. “Truly, the call to reach the cities is urgent, and now is the time to answer it.”
By Mara C. Rodriguez, East Visayan Conference