By Rosella S. Abenio
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Cliché this may sound but who can argue with the truth of Helen Keller’s words? Because team building is so basic in any organization, the church must consistently strive to inspire people to bond as one body with one mission.
With the aim to rekindle the spirit of unity and teamwork, EFC-CDO recently conducted its first Team Building at Marvilla Beach Resort, Cagayan de Oro City last October 30, 2015. All together, there were 58 participants including EFC- CDO volunteers and workers, pastors and their families from EFC churches in Malaybalay, Manticao, Naawan, Lala and Mambayaan.
Aside from those experienced in outstation churches, new workers joined the team building which further inspired their passion for missions work.
The event opened with praise and worship, and Pastor Roberto Padinit shared Luke 5:1-8 where Jesus called us to be fishers of men. “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.” Having called by God, the challenge was up for everyone to work together as a team.
Throughout the day, exciting games like the ‘Recite Verses’ game, ‘The name of our group’ game, and ‘The sacrifice’ game fostered unity and encouragement among the group. More importantly, the teams understood that Christian teamwork acknowledges God as the established leader in every team. Such knowledge inspires boldness and strength among His followers.
Before the day ended, everyone was given time to share his or her own experiences of victories and struggles in church outstation works. Questions were raised regarding their visions as wells. Indeed, it was a time where everyone was blessed and encouraged, and the new ones caught the excitement to serve Jesus as they heard testimonies of full time and volunteer church planters.
With all the struggles and strongholds each worker faces in the mission field, it can be very difficult or burdensome if the worker is fighting the battle alone. However, with the partnership of the Holy Spirit and the church, the teams were reminded that everything is possible.