The North Island Cebu District (NICD) participated in weeklong simultaneous evangelistic campaigns for the Central Visayan Conference program titled “Evangelism Through the Local Church.”
With the theme “Tingog sa Paglaum,” the nightly meetings occurred from April 6 to 12, 2025, at six churches, leading to 23 individuals accepting Jesus Christ through baptism.
Each church’s local leaders and members wholeheartedly support the program as care groups are mobilized. Bitoon Church held its meeting inside the church, where Bibiano Paglinawan delivered the message along with other members. Meanwhile, Langub Church held its meeting at Purok Malatindok, with Rolando Villacarlos presenting the message alongside other elders and members.
Moriah Company, although a newly organized church, held an evangelistic meeting at their church with Ruby Batictic, along with all the leaders, delivering the messages.
Neniveh Church conducted their evangelistic gathering in Sitio San Miguel with Glenn Escalicas and all the elders as speakers, while the Pasil Church was at Purok Tulingan. Jonas Rosell, elders, and members took turns in delivering the nightly topics.
On the other hand, Tarsis Church was at Villacarlos Compound, where Mae Osabel and Richard Ilustrisimo were the speakers. They also conducted health lectures through Celuna Retanal, drawing listeners who actively listened.
Pastor Rolando Alcanzare, NICD district pastor, untiringly monitored every venue to support and encourage everyone. At the culmination of these simultaneous events, he expressed overwhelming joy at the success.
“To God be the glory!” Pastor Alcanzare exclaimed. “From April 6 to 12, our district was blessed to hold a simultaneous evangelistic crusade across our six churches.”
What made the week special for the church members was that the speakers were church elders and active lay members. Despite their initial hesitation, they braved through feelings of inadequacies and proclaimed God’s Word mightily.
On the culmination day, 23 individuals decided to be baptized. The baptismal ceremony featured Dr. Isaias S. Guisando, CVC education director, as the officiating minister.
Pastor Alcanzare encouraged the brethren to nurture and disciple their new brothers and sisters in Christ, that they may grow strong in faith and become faithful witnesses for the Lord.
He emphasized that these new members who made a public commitment to follow Christ through baptism are a testament to the Holy Spirit’s power and the faithful efforts of God’s people.
Contemplating on the impact of these simultaneous events, Pastor Alcazare said, “Truly, the harvest is ready—and the workers are rising!”.
Despite the challenges faced during preparation and the event days, church members throughout the NICD are eagerly looking forward to the next simultaneous evangelism event. For them, partaking in the ministry is truly rewarding.
Reachly Alcanzare, North Island Cebu District