Under the banner, “Jesus is Coming: Get Involved,” over 28,000 delegates from the Southern Asia-Pacific region (SSD) gathered at Mountain View College (MVC) on June 10, 2024. This significant event brought together participants for the Sabbath School/Personal Ministries (SS/PM), Nurturing Discipleship Retention/Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle (NDR/IEL), and Children's Ministries (CM) division-wide Congress.

In anticipation of the event, delegates began arriving at the venue a week early to set up their accommodations and prepare for the eagerly anticipated week-long gathering.

The grand opening ceremony began with a vibrant Parade of Nations, showcasing a sea of colors as thousands of delegates from diverse organizations and institutions participated. Delegates from Malaysia, Myanmar, Timor-Leste, East Indonesia, West Indonesia, South Eastern Asia, Central Philippines, North Philippines, South Eastern Philippines, and South Western Philippines were represented in the parade. The parade also featured representatives from the General Conference, Southern Asia-Pacific Division, and distinguished guests.

The delegates' enthusiasm was palpable as they shouted and cheered, showcasing the vibrant spirit of their respective conferences. Before the parade, organizers creatively embodied the theme “Get Involved” by arranging delegates to form a captivating artistic display, setting the tone for the event.

Prominent figures from the Philippine government attended the event, expressing their support and words of encouragement to the Adventist community. These leaders emphasized the vital role of spirituality in fostering a nation of faith and highlighted Jesus' example as a guide for leading one’s community.

The ceremony featured the official opening declaration of the congress by Arnelio Gabin, vice president for NDR-IEL; Segundino Asoy, Sabbath School and Personal Ministries director; and Danita Caderma, Children’s Ministries director. This momentous occasion marked the beginning of a new journey of learning and sharing for all attendees.

In the days ahead, delegates are expected to look forward to diverse workshops, activities, breakout sessions, and lectures. The Congress will conclude on June 15, 2024, with high hopes for the spiritual growth and learning of all participants.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website.