For sisters Lychel Lee Gabuco and Cheard Lyzz Gabuco, ministry has never been about the spotlight. It’s about showing up, often behind the scenes, often in silence, and building a space where Deaf individuals can see, feel, and live the love of Jesus.
Now, after more than 15 years of full-time service in Deaf ministry, the two are heading to the 62nd General Conference Session as representatives of the Adventist Possibility Ministries (APM) and Adventist Deaf Ministries International–Philippines. For them, it’s more than an event. It’s a milestone in a journey defined by prayer, perseverance, and purpose.
“We never imagined we’d be part of something this global,” Lychel shared. “Most of our work happens in small churches, local communities, and Deaf spaces that people don’t always see.”
The sisters have spent years seeking the Deaf in various regions of the Philippines, establishing Deaf ministries in churches, training volunteer interpreters, and empowering Deaf leaders. Although the number of Deaf members is still small, approximately 200 members and 20 interpreters across seven churches, their impact continues to grow.
“It’s easy to feel like we’re behind compared to others,” Lychel said. “But God doesn’t count size. He looks at faith and vision.”
The chance to participate in the GC Session was entirely unexpected, they share. Applying for a U.S. visa felt daunting due to the lack of a sponsoring institution and a formal employment record. But after months of prayer, they were both approved, along with their senior citizen mother, who has supported them through every mission journey. Their travel and accommodation needs were fully covered through the generosity of supporting organizations aligned with the APM vision.
“That kind of provision only comes from God,” Lychel said. “We saw each answered prayer as confirmation that He’s sending us—so we can grow, learn, and share what we’ve experienced.”
They believe their story is a glimpse into what it means to be part of a truly global and inclusive church. Their presence at the session signals a shift: a church that doesn’t just make space but invites everyone to lead, contribute, and be seen.
For young people navigating purpose, calling, and identity, Lychel and Cheard’s story reminds them that mission is not defined by platform or prestige. It’s defined by faithfulness.
“We’re not here because we’re special,” Lychel said. “We’re here because God is. And He wants everyone—hearing, Deaf, abled, and disabled—to be part of His mission.”
As the Seventh-day Adventist World Church gathers to worship, plan, and dream at the GC Session, the sisters carry with them not just the hopes of a small community in the Philippines but a vision of a church where no one is left out.
And that, they believe, is the heart of the gospel, fulfilled until everyone is seen.
The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news.
