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The San Miguel-Alang-Alang District under the East Visayan Conference hosted its annual Global Youth Day 2026 on March 28 at Barangay Cambahanon, Alang-Alang, bringing together more than 100 young people from various churches across the district.

The event, led by Pastor Roland Rodriguez, followed the theme “Communion in Action.” It encouraged Adventist youth to come together in unity, serve others with compassion, and grow spiritually.

Global Youth Day is an annual initiative of the Seventh-day Adventist Church that mobilizes young people, typically ages 15 to 25, for community service and mission outreach worldwide. Celebrated every third Sabbath of March, the event encourages acts of kindness such as community cleanups, hospital visits, food distribution and faith-sharing activities. It aims to inspire youth to live out the gospel by “being the sermon” through meaningful service.

During the Sabbath worship service, Pastor Samuel Salloman, president of the East Visayan Conference, shared a message that inspired the congregation. He spoke about the value of perseverance in serving others humbly and staying faithful until Christ returns. He urged everyone to keep sharing their faith and supporting one another, even when facing economic or health challenges. 

He also mentioned Numbers 14:24, using Caleb’s strong faith and obedience as an example.

That afternoon, the youth held a community outreach at the barangay hall. They walked together from the church to the venue under the scorching sun, cheerfully handing out tracts and magazines as they took on their roles as young missionaries.

When they arrived, the group invited local children to join in storytelling, action songs, and fun activities. They also gave out slippers and served arroz caldo (lugaw), a Filipino dish, as part of a feeding program.

“The children are truly happy,” one of the young people said. “Seeing the smiles on their faces and hearing their voices also makes us happy.”

Other participants also shared their thoughts about the event. Verna Gozo said she found the activity inspiring and noticed how the youth worked together in unity and cooperation.

“Therefore, I realize that 'communion in action' means not only coming together but also serving others and demonstrating God’s love through tangible acts,” she added.

Another participant, Desire Babiano, said that even though walking long distances was tough, the experience was unforgettable. She was moved by the children’s excitement and felt grateful for the chance to serve and bring happiness through simple acts of giving.

Marco, a youth leader, talked about how important it is to reach out to people who are often forgotten. He said that serving children shows Christ’s care and compassion.

He also shared that the slippers distributed symbolized guiding others to walk in the path of Jesus. Inspired by the message delivered during the worship service, he reaffirmed his commitment to continue sharing the gospel and serving others regardless of circumstances.

The Global Youth Day celebration in San Miguel–Alang-Alang District concluded with the youth feeling renewed in their mission. They committed to continue to show their faith by serving in their communities.

Everyone, especially the youth, went home happy and felt blessed by the Global Youth Day program. The event empowered them and showed that, no matter their age, they can shine and make a difference.

By Mara C. Rodriguez ⎹ MSA ⎹ East Visayan Conference