SARANGANI, Philippines
A spirit of unity and fellowship marked the January 18 Sabbath as officers, directors, staff, and family members of the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM) simultaneously worshipped with congregations across Sarangani Province, under the territory of the Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM).
Dubbed SePUM Bisita Iglesiya, which started in 2024 visiting Agusan del Sur territory, the initiative brought union leaders and their families to 20 local churches in various districts, fostering closer fellowship, mutual encouragement, and renewed spiritual vigor among members. The presence of church leaders in local congregations—large and small alike—created a memorable Sabbath marked by worship, shared meals, and meaningful conversations.
SePUM President Danielo Palomares, together with his family and Ma’am Cherry Sotto, worshipped with the Alegria Adventist Church of Alabel District. Executive Secretary Pr. Edwin Magdadaro and his wife, Ma’am Lindy Lou Magdadaro, joined members of Pagang Adventist Church, accompanied by singers from Southern Mindanao Mission.
“This visit meant so much to us,” shared Pastor Pedro Casio during fellowship at the potluck lunch. “It was the first time union leaders visited our church. They listened to our stories—our joys, plans, and even our worries—and that made a lasting impact.”
Treasurer Elder Laurence Lamera, with his wife Ma’am Aida and Sir Junarie Lomocso, spent the Sabbath with Glan Central Adventist Church, where members contributed special music throughout the day. Associate Treasurer Elder Esmiraldo Cantila and family joined the Punsad Adventist Church of Margosatubig District, while Stewardship Director Pr. Dante Dabucol and his wife Ma’am Charlyn fellowshipped with Aglumay Church in Glan.
Ministerial Secretary Pr. Baby Larry Labang and his wife worshipped at Alabel Central Adventist Church. Several other congregations across Alabel, Malapatan, Margosatubig, and Glan districts also welcomed SePUM leaders and families. Despite challenges in locating some remote churches, visiting teams continued their Sabbath journey with joy and gratitude, sharing worship, testimonies, and encouragement with local members.
At Sarangani Adventist Academy for the Arts, Inc. (SAAAI), the media team led by Ma’am Ivan Mae Flores and family, together with Sir Sam Bago, inspired faculty and staff. “The visit felt like loving parents bringing ‘pasalubong’ to their children,” one faculty member remarked. “Beyond the gifts, their presence and messages uplifted us.” The distribution of classroom calendars highlighting REAPS—Reach, Expand, Advance, Proclaim, and Seek, Save, and Disciple—added lasting reminders of mission.
Other SePUM families also visited congregations of Bagacay, Kawas, Ladol, Lon Masla, Malapatan, Lon Baybay, Panaggalon, Pangyan, Parilla, Sapo Kabog, New Spring and Upper Alabel; sharing worship, fellowship, and testimonies of faith. Elder Rhoen Shane Catolico, with his wife Amy and their daughters, joined the members of Tango Adventist Church in Glan, describing the experience as mutually inspiring. SePUM leaders expressed their commitment to continue visiting churches and districts in the months ahead, strengthening bonds between administrators and local congregations.
Reflecting on the experience, the SePUM family echoed the words of Ellen G. White: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! … Christian unity is a mighty agency. It tells in a powerful manner that those who possess it are children of God.” (My Life Today, p. 276)
Through Bisita Iglesiya, SePUM reaffirmed its commitment to servant leadership—walking with local churches, listening to their stories, and nurturing unity in Christ across the territory.
Photo Credits: Bisita Iglesya Team Members
