Religious leaders and members of numerous Christian groups met at Fine Rock Hotel for faith sharing, an initiative to break down barriers and dispel myths concerning the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
This yearly event, held on August 15, 2024, brought together pastors and representatives from the United Pentecostal Church, Baptist Church, Church of the Nazarene, and the Roman Catholic congregations to discuss, share, understand, and build relationships with the brethren outside the Adventist faith.
With the theme “Preach,” the organizers of this initiative had goals in mind when choosing this theme. First, they wanted to emphasize the shared mission of all Christians: proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. Second, they sought to promote unity among denominations despite doctrinal differences. Moreover, the participants could focus on what brought them together by focusing and agreeing on a theme.
During the event, their discussions or exchanges of points of view aimed to refute myths and clarify practices or doctrinal misconceptions that frequently cause divisiveness among Christian organizations. Furthermore, its outcome would be crucial in developing mutual respect and understanding among the participants.
Pastor Felixian T. Felicitas, the Southern Asia Pacific Division field secretary, delivered a message centered on the grace found at Calvary and how this grace unites all believers in their commitment to God.
Following the sermon, pastors from different religious affiliations voiced their thoughts on the material and messages delivered, each trying to exemplify or elaborate on the truth and principles presented according to their beliefs. However, they preserved the respect and courtesy every Christian present was entitled to.
In conclusion, the collaborative environment amidst sharing and discussions generated a sense of oneness, dispelling misconceptions among various churches.
To the attendees, the event was more than just a gathering; it was a call to greater unity in the Christian community. It proved that Christians, regardless of denominational affiliation, can work together to establish healthier, more inclusive relationships by encouraging open discourse and sharing ideas.
The effectiveness of “Preach” in bringing together various spiritual groups illustrates what may be accomplished when Christians focus on a shared objective.
Some attendees even anticipated that the bonds and connections made during the “Preach” event would further strengthen, encouraging cooperation and harmony across the many denominations.
By Romelyn Alvarez, Hope Channel Western Visayas
The original version of this article was posted on the official Facebook page of the Western Visayas Conference.