News

The Women's Ministries Department celebrated a successful lay-led evangelism seminar in two districts across Samar Mission from Oct. 20 to 26, 2004. Despite the unexpected challenges posed by Typhoon Kristine, women leaders and members pressed forward with their mission to bring the message of Christ to their communities, resulting in a remarkable turnout and baptisms.

In Calbayog District, the evangelism campaign took place in Brgy. Trinidad, in a small relocation community of 49 families behind the local airport. With limited resources and shelter, the women held nightly meetings on a cemented road under a makeshift cover that offered minimal protection against the elements.

Typhoon Kristine forced them to pause for a single evening, yet the community's eagerness to hear the gospel inspired the women to continue, braving fierce winds. Their dedication bore fruit on the Sabbath when 25 individuals accepted Jesus as their Savior. A new church building is underway in the location, fortifying the resolve and commitment of these new believers.

Meanwhile, in Washington, Catarman, women of the Catarman District, organized their evangelism seminar in the local gymnasium. Before the nightly meetings, they hosted a health expo as part of their World Impact initiative, engaging the community in holistic health and wellness activities.

Unfortunately, Typhoon Kristine disrupted the meetings, forcing the cancellation of three nights. Nevertheless, the women rallied together and resumed sessions as soon as it was safe. At the week's culmination, they distributed certificates to attendees, vowing to continue outreach in the area and return next year to further the campaign.

Jenifer Mistades, the leader of the Missionary Spouses Association (MSA) in Calbayog, expressed her gratitude: "To God be the glory! We are thankful for these 25 souls who accepted Christ as their personal Savior. Thank you to God and our husbands, who were by our side throughout the program."

Agnes Letran, women's leader in Catarman, attributes the success to the participation and cooperation of the Women's Department, District Fellowship, and Wheels Ministry. "The teamwork among these groups was truly inspiring," she shared.

Noreen Sumalpong, Samar Mission Women's Ministries Director, added, "I am immensely grateful and proud of our women's accomplishments despite the weather challenges. They dedicated their time, resources, and talent to making this program a success. Truly, God uses even women to bless the people in the communities and participate in the Gospel commission."

The success of these evangelism campaigns is a testament to the unwavering faith and resilience of the Women's Ministries Department in Samar Mission territory. Despite unforeseen obstacles, their steadfast dedication brought 25 new believers to Christ, with the hope that many more will follow.

The women of Calbayog and Catarman exemplify the Gospel commission, demonstrating that even amidst challenges, God's Word will always find a way to shine.

The original version of this article is posted on the official page of the Samar Mission of Seventh-Day Adventists.