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Calbayog City, Samar – Women from all over Samar Island gathered at the Calbayog Convention Center for the Adventist Women's Ministries Leadership Certification Graduation and Convention. With church members included, the total attendance reached approximately 600 participants.

With the theme "Made to Flourish – To Reach and Go Light Our World," the convention featured distinguished leaders from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) and the Central Philippine Union Conference (CPUC).

Notable attendees included Mrs. Virgie P. Baloyo, director of the family and women's ministries for the Southern Asia-Pacific Division; Mrs. Fe Pigon, women's ministries director for the Central Philippine Union Conference; and Mrs. Rhea Noreen Mae Sumalpong, women's ministries director of the Samar Mission.

The program began on Friday afternoon, featuring three leadership certification topics, followed by four sessions in the evening. All Samar Women's Ministries officers presented these insightful lectures, namely Adelpha Mabulay, Ronelie Salvador, Grace Abayon, Christy Corro, Prescila Francisco, and Magdalena Peñaflor. Additional contributions came from Mrs. Grace Intanto, family and children's ministries director of Samar Mission.

Sabbath activities revolved around the convention's theme, highlighting topics from the "Flourish" series. Mrs. Pigon spoke on "Flourishing in Ministry," Baloyo discussed "Flourish: Overcoming Emotional Distance," and Sumalpong presented on "Women in Leadership."

Sabbath activities centered on the convention's "Flourish" series theme, with Mrs. Pigon discussing "Flourishing in Ministry," Mrs. Baloyo addressing "Flourish: Overcoming Emotional Distance," and Mrs. Sumalpong presenting on "Women in Leadership."

During the Sabbath School program, the different districts reported on activities conducted in their areas. Acknowledging their dedication, the Samar Mission Women's Ministries Department awarded certificates of appreciation to 12 districts for their efforts.

During the Divine Worship service, Mrs. Baloyo delivered an inspiring message titled "Flourishing in Jesus," which resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing their spiritual commitment.

Following her message, a special recognition ceremony was held for Jeane Pelayo. Her commitment to leading women's ministries in the Catarman district, despite facing medical challenges, has served as an inspiration to many.

In the afternoon, further lectures by Mrs. Pigon and Mrs. Sumalpong covered "Flourishing in Mind and Heart" and "Flourishing in Service," emphasizing women's essential roles in various aspects of ministry.

Another convention highlight was the awarding ceremony, during which around 200 women received certificates and sashes recognizing their achievements in the certification program.

Moreover, Mrs. Baloyo delivered another word of encouragement, followed by a congratulatory message from Pastor Antonio Gobi Jr., president of Samar Mission. In his message, he recognized the invaluable contributions of women in ministry. He then led a commitment prayer with Pastor Remegio Risos Jr., stewardship director of Samar Mission.

The evening concluded with a cultural presentation, showcasing women in colorful attire performing folk dances and songs, celebrating unity among participants.

This event marked a historic gathering as the first mission-wide assembly held at the Calbayog Convention Center, a comfortable venue for delegates and worshipers.

Seeing the impressive outcome of the event, the organizers thanked everyone involved and expressed gratitude to Mayor Dexter Uy, mayor of Calbayog City, for his support in facilitating this significant event.

Furthermore, Mrs. Sumalpong, reflecting on the convention's success, said, "Glory and honor be to God! This event's success is made possible through His guidance and the hard work of the All-Samar Women's Ministries officers, led by President Christy Corro.

She also mentioned in her thanksgiving the presence and support of Mrs. Baloyo, Mrs. Pigon, Samar Mission administrators, directors, and church leaders who significantly contributed to the positive impact of this gathering."

The convention concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to flourish in faith, leadership, and service, continuing to shine as beacons of light in their communities.

Mrs. Rhea Noreen Mae Sumalpong, Women's Ministries Director of the Samar Mission.

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