By: Kezia Chavez & Glory Grace Plana
On a significant evening at 6 PM, the JECPP Training Center for Mission (JTCM) hosted its first commencement exercise at the Evangel Family Church (EFC) in Iloilo City. This momentous event celebrated the culmination of eight months of rigorous preparation and dedication by four students who had embraced the call to serve in missions.
Having completed eight months of intensive training at JTCM, followed by a month of on-the-job training (OJT) in various mission fields, the graduates—Christian Rey Montoya, Jessel Dela Peña, Mark Andrew Ebales, and Jaime Namangcayao—proudly marked a pivotal milestone in their spiritual journeys. Their OJT placements in EFC Ajuy, Iloilo, and EFC Libertad and Pandan, Antique, provided invaluable practical experience in missionary service.
The ceremony commenced with an earnest Welcome Address delivered by Rev. Benjamin S. Chavez, the chairman of JECPP. He extended a warm greeting to the attendees, which included the graduates, spiritual leaders, pastors, their families, and fellow church members. His address underscored the significance of the occasion, emphasizing the fulfillment of witnessing the results of the training program and the transformative impact it would have on the graduates’ lives and future ministries.
Rev. Tony Angelias, the vice chairman of JECPP, led the gathering in an Opening Prayer, invoking divine blessings upon the evening’s proceedings. This solemn moment unified the attendees as they collectively entrusted the graduates and their mission work to God’s guidance.
The ceremony’s atmosphere shifted to one of joy and celebration during the Praise and Worship, led by the music team. The vibrant songs and heartfelt expressions of worship highlighted God’s faithfulness and set a celebratory tone for the event.
A deeply symbolic moment followed with the Graduation March. The graduates, accompanied by their parents, proudly walked down the aisle, a procession marked by gratitude and hope. They were joined by a group of esteemed spiritual leaders, including Rev. Benjamin Chavez, Rev. Peter Wee, Rev. Tony Angelias, Rev. Roberto Padinit, Rev. Jetro Novero, and Rev. Virgilio Fabales. This procession symbolized unity and the collective support of mentors and loved ones, making the occasion especially meaningful.
The graduates were presented with certificates of recognition for completing nine months of training in the Mission School. This presentation was led by Rev. Roberto Padinit, JECPP’s corporate secretary. Among the graduates, Christian Rey Montoya, recognized as the outstanding student, delivered a heartfelt testimony reflecting on his transformative journey at the Bible school.
Adding to the evening’s reverence, the four graduates performed a moving rendition of their graduation song, The Mission, encapsulating their faith and dedication. This was followed by a powerful prayer from Rev. Peter Wee, who sought divine guidance and blessings for the graduates as they embarked on their missionary journeys.
The highlight of the ceremony was the graduation message, delivered by Rev. Peter Wee, the Senior Overseer of JECPP. Titled Courage to Try Again, the address drew from Exodus 3:1-4 and emphasized the importance of obedience and resilience in pursuing God’s will. Through compelling examples, including the inspiring story of Rev. Dr. Robert Lim, who began painting at the age of 69, Rev. Wee encouraged the graduates and congregation to embrace courage and act boldly in service to God’s kingdom. The display of Rev. Dr Robert Lim’s remarkable artwork captivated and inspired the attendees.
The event concluded with the presentation of a plaque of appreciation to Rev. Peter Wee, followed by a closing prayer offered by Rev. Jetro Novero, the regional director of Luzon. The ceremony culminated in a shared dinner, leaving attendees with smiles, warm farewells, and a sense of unity.
To God be the glory!
