Adventist World Radio expanded its mission in Negros Occidental Conference beyond broadcasting in the groundbreaking of its first-funded church in Brgy. Tabu, Ilog, Negros Occidental.
The groundbreaking ceremony on Nov. 5, 2024, was attended by Pastor Robert Dulay, AWR 360 Asia-Pacific Region director, NOC administrators, and Tabu Seventh-day Adventist Church members.
AWR is an international broadcast ministry of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. Operating more than a thousand hours a week via shortwave and AM/FM radio, its mission is to broadcast the gospel to diverse groups of people in their own languages and cultures. Global networks of transmitters and partners they have acquired allow them to reach more remote areas.
“We are spreading God’s money for mission,” Pastor Robert Dulay said in his message during the ceremony after reiterating the mission and objectives of radio ministry.
Fred Hudieres, a member of the Tabu Seventh-day Adventist Church, battled with his emotions as he envisioned the new church after its construction.
“I can’t explain my feelings,” said Hudierez, a Tabu Seventh-day Adventist Church member. “My life is with God. Because of my son, I am here. While we live, we will stay here. I believe more souls will be welcomed to this church.”
This surge of emotion was rekindled upon the memory of his son, the late Master Sergeant Willy Hudierez. The latter was assigned to accompany Pastor Dulay and the AWR team during their outreach mission in Mindoro.
The military officer was later baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church by Elder Ted Wilson, president of the General Conference of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, in July 2022. Sadly, he passed away six months after his baptism.
The new church, which will replace the old Tabu Adventist Church located downhill, will be on a hilltop overlooking the town of Ilog.
“God will let this temple stand so we will be ready when He comes,” added Pastor Dulay.
Construction on the church started right after the groundbreaking ceremony. The brethren in Tabu and the entire conference looked forward to its completion, which marked another milestone of their spiritual journey.
By Stephanie Loriezo, Negros Occidental Conference
The original version of this article is posted on the official page of the Negros Occidental Conference.