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Marking a historic achievement, the Adventist Church in Central Visayas hosted its first Women's Ministries Leadership Certification Graduation on Nov. 9, 2024, celebrating the dedication of 548 participants from Metro Cebu and the Cebu province.

This certification program aimed to empower and equip women with the skills and knowledge necessary to serve effectively in their communities and congregations. In particular, most of these participants had attended Women's Leadership Certification levels 1 through 4, a four-level program designed to equip women for leadership roles within their church and community.

Each level builds upon the previous one, progressively deepening knowledge and skills. It starts with the foundation of leadership to the expansion of leadership skills. The program then transitions to the "Leadership in Action" level, focusing on applying these skills in diverse ministry settings. Lastly, it culminates in an advanced leadership and mentoring program, where participants refine their leadership competencies and learn to mentor and empower other women.

Although some participants still needed to complete all levels, the event nonetheless celebrated their achievements and ongoing commitment to developing their leadership abilities. Therefore, this inaugural graduation marks a significant step in the conference's ongoing efforts to empower women leaders for the ministry.

Mrs. Starly B. Gutierrez, the Children and Women's Ministries director of the Central Visayan Conference, organized this event under the guidance and support of Mrs. Fe R. Pigon, the Women's Ministries director of the Central Philippine Union Conference.

Mrs. Pigon served as the commitment speaker for the occasion, while Mrs. Glenda C. Catane, a retired CPUC Women's Ministries director, delivered a sermon during the hour of worship.

Mrs. Catane's husband, Pastor Agapito Catane Jr., a retired CPUC president, also offered a commitment prayer, dedicating the women to the service.

The 548 seasoned and new women leaders came from various backgrounds and demonstrated exceptional dedication to their spiritual growth and leadership development.

"When I first attended the leadership training, I struggled with doubt, feeling unworthy of the journey ahead. My attitude—particularly in managing my family and responsibilities—was chaotic. I often felt like a failure as a mother and wife, convinced I was unfit to be a leader," Wilma E. Quijano said, a dynamic "Soul Reapers" care group leader and one of the graduates who shared her reflection during the event.

"But as I progressed through the four levels of training, something changed. The Holy Spirit began to work in me, transforming my heart and mind. My vision became clearer, and I found myself growing more prayerful, more submissive to God's will," Quijano continued.

She also shared how God blessed her with a forgiving heart and the strength to embrace change. Through it all, she prayed, seeking God's purpose for her life and the task He had entrusted to me. "

Moreover, another participant shared, "Though I have not completed every level, the journey has made me more passionate about serving, and I am motivated to continue."

Ultimately, the first-ever Women's Ministries Leadership Certification Graduation represents more than just a celebratory event—it is a pivotal moment that will shape the future of church ministries within the Central Visayan Conference.

The newly graduated leaders are now better equipped to serve, mentor, and inspire others in their communities. Their leadership will contribute significantly to the continued growth and vitality of the church, enhancing a strong sense of unity, purpose, and empowerment.

Looking ahead, this event serves as a model for future leadership programs, reinforcing the importance of nurturing and empowering the next generation of church leaders for growth and spiritual renewal.

By Maricel M. Bojos, Central Visayan Conference

The original version of this article was posted on the official Facebook page of the Central Visayan Conference.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18NwGYDGWQ