Mission Committee Spearheading Mission Conference in Every Presbytery

**3rd Mission Conference of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the Philippines: A Historic Milestone – by Rev. Virgilio Delas Armas, GAPCP PubCom**

Highlighting the events: The first was held at Inshil Chapel in 2023, the second in Korea in 2023, and now the third at New Canaan Center in Tagaytay. This year marks our first mission conference at New Canaan Center. The second will take place from April 29th to May 2nd in Baguio, the third in Cebu, and the fourth in Davao (Mindanao).

In a momentous celebration marking fifty years since its establishment in 1984, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the Philippines (GAPCP) convened its inaugural Mission Conference. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the New Canaan Center, nestled amidst the serene environs of Magallanes Dr. Maharlika East, Tagaytay City, Cavite 4120, Philippines, this landmark gathering unfolded from March 27th to 29th, 2024. Drawing together representatives from 6 presbyteries and a congregation of 58 devout participants, the conference resonated with the resounding theme, “Arise PCP: Be a Witness for Jesus,” igniting fervor to rekindle the flames of missionary zeal within the church’s collective spirit.

The early morning devotion, led by Rev. Arman Mendoza and his wife Janelle, along with their worship team, set a reverent tone before breakfast. Rev. Armand shared his missionary experiences abroad, offering a compelling prelude to the day’s proceedings.

The inaugural service, graced by the esteemed Mission Committee Chairman, Elimar Eleazar, exuded an aura of reverence and anticipation. A poignant highlight emerged with the stirring testimony of Ronald Contante, a seasoned missionary whose 12-year odyssey in Cambodia vividly illustrated the transformative essence of mission endeavors. Reverend Nelson Carillo, in his illuminating discourse titled “Why Mission,” fortified the assembly’s understanding of their divine calling, underscoring the pivotal significance of gospel dissemination.

Rev. In-sik Chung’s captivating exposition on mission service and prayer resonated deeply with the congregation. Unveiling his profound commitment of three daily hours to prayer, he illuminated the spiritual scaffolding underpinning triumphant ministry, shedding light on the indispensable role of disciplined spirituality in missionary undertakings.

The conference’s second day bore witness to Ms. Yang Chang’s enlightening exploration into “Jesus Dream-Acts and the Moravians.” Her narrative illuminated the Moravian Christians’ century-long dedication to prayer, casting a radiant spotlight on the transformative potency of fervent intercession in nurturing vibrant Christian communities. Following a rejuvenating interlude, Rev. James Cantoria eloquently articulated the remarkable progress of the Church in the Philippines and worldwide. His discourse, titled “Philippine Church and Mission Today,” celebrated Cavite Province’s pivotal role in spearheading church planting initiatives while underscoring the exponential global proliferation of Christianity catalyzed by relentless mission endeavors.

Post-lunch, Ms. Mary Ann Sabinay, a missionary with a gripping personal saga, shared her remarkable odyssey from childhood abandonment to divine missionary calling. Her testimony stirred hearts and minds alike, encapsulating the redemptive potency of God’s summons in orchestrating transformative mission narratives.

The ensuing participant-led discussions were marked by enthusiastic engagement, fostering a rich tapestry of introspection and shared learning.

Dr. Rev. Han So Lee’s poignant exhortation on mission service and prayer provided a soul-stirring crescendo, urging attendees to emulate Christ’s revolutionary ministry beyond conventional confines, thereby embracing a resolutely mission-oriented ethos.

On the 29th, the final day session, Rev. Dong Baek Lee, a Korean Missionary for 30 years in the Philippines, shared his testimony and the secret of enduring hardships as a missionary. He recounted a harrowing incident when his two-and-a-half-year-old son was abducted for ransom, sharing how prayer sustained them through the ordeal, with his son returning safely after ten days.

Guided by Rev. Nak Keun Kim of the Center for Asia Reachout (CAR), session four navigated the pivotal dichotomy between church maintenance and mission. His thought-provoking insights catalyzed profound reflections on the church’s indispensable role in fervently advancing the Kingdom of God.

The conference culminated in a solemn yet stirring closing service, presided over by the venerable General Secretary, Rev. Orlando Tabotabo. His impassioned invocation of the Great Commission, as delineated in Matthew 28:19-20, underscored the urgent imperative propelling the PCP and its constituent churches towards resolute mission engagement. The proceedings reached a crescendo with the solemn commissioning of Rev. Ronald Contante as an official missionary to Cambodia, symbolizing the church’s unwavering commitment to pragmatic mission endeavors. Caridad Ancero was also prayed over as a missionary to Cambodia by the participants of the mission conference. Attendees departed invigorated by congratulatory addresses, impassioned challenges, and the awarding of certificates of attendance.

The local and global exposure shared during the conference inspired attendees to “send, pray, go, mobilize, and teach” as missionaries. These challenges were met with enthusiastic responses from the participants as they discerned their individual callings.

As the curtains descended on this historic event, speakers were lauded for their invaluable contributions, and participants bid adieu, infused with a palpable sense of rejuvenated purpose and unwavering dedication to disseminating the gospel both locally and globally. Parting gifts were also given to Rev. Ronald Contante from participants, and books were distributed courtesy of Vice Moderator Nelson Dangan. Gratitude to the host for accommodating the conference was recognized, along with appreciation extended to all speakers, organizers, and participants.

*(Caption: Speakers and participants gather for a moment of reflection during the First Mission Conference of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the Philippines.)* **Speakers: Rev. Elimar Eleazar, Rev. Nelson Carillo, Dr. Rev. In-Sik Chung, Ms. Yang Chang, Rev. James Cantoria, Rev. Han So Lee, Dr. Nak Keun Kim, GenSec. Rev. Orlando Tabotabo. Devotion’s Speaker: Rev. Arman Mendoza, Rev. Dong Baek Lee and Testimonies: Rev. Ronald Contante and Ms. Mary Ann Sabinay**