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North Central Cebu District Association of Churches held a farewell program for Pastor Clyde Potot, their outgoing district pastor, during their 201st fellowship on Nov. 30, 2024, in Consolacion, Cebu.

To express their deep appreciation for his five years of service, the NCCDAC honored their departing pastor with a new red Honda Click 125 motorcycle and a plaque.

Pastor Potot has served the district with distinction since 2019, leading the Central Visayan Conference in soul-winning for years. He earned the deep respect and affection of the congregation through his tireless dedication, attending nearly every event and rarely missing any gathering, even a funeral service.

With 20 churches under the former NCCDAC, before it was divided into two this year, Pastor Potot created a deep bond with the brethren of each church.

"He is available 24/7 and quickly responds whenever he is needed. He always spends quality time talking to us and hearing us out, not minding the time," one elder said, expressing his pain at the separation.

"He is a truly humble servant of God," another NCCDAC member remarked. "A pastor and a registered nurse, he uses his gifts to touch lives through his charismatic preaching and compelling health lectures."

Another church member, Helen Horn, shared her experience during the Life Enrichment with Bible Prophecy Seminar at Weber Hotel last July: "As a long-time Adventist, I've attended countless meetings, but Pastor Clyde's preaching and health lectures always thrill me. He offers fresh insights and information that captivate even first-time attendees."

When news of Pastor Potot's reassignment broke, the elders were reluctant to let him go. Recognizing and eventually accepting the inevitable, they expressed their appreciation with a special plaque and a brand-new motorcycle.

"I wholeheartedly supported the proposal to raise funds for the motorcycle," Crisaldo Borgonia, NCCDAC president, said during the meeting. "God has blessed us with a dedicated and talented spiritual leader in Pastor Clyde."

Visibly moved, Pastor Potot, known for his powerful sermons, bowed to the congregation with tears in his eyes. "I never expected such a special and surprising gift," he admitted. "I simply served God wholeheartedly and did my best for all of you."

Expressing his gratitude, he added, "Thank you very much! I will never forget this day."

On December 1, Pastor Potot starts to serve his new assignment as the church pastor of Adventist Academy Cebu International Church.

By Joven T. Arcelo

The original version of this article is posted on the official page of the Central Visayan Conference of the Seventh-Day Adventists.