By: Rosella Abenio

EFC- Cagayan de Oro was all geared up for a double celebration last December 26, 2018. It was the 1st JECPP’s Northern Mindanao Regional Bible Training Graduation and the Northern Mindanao Church Planters Year End Gathering. The back to back event  was attended by JECPP’s Northern Mindanao church planters and volunteers from Bukidnon, particularly from Malaybalay and Lala. Brethren from  Misamis Oriental, such as Manticao, Naawan, Balingasag and Mambayaan were well represented as well as the  EFC-CDO church members.  Everyone was excited to witness the graduation ceremony of the 14 trainees who successfully completed the eight-month Regional Bible Training.

Beautifully clad in their togas, each graduate proudly received their well deserved certificates, namely: Pastor Brian Calalin, Pastor Jefferson Ouano, Bro. Marco Pelias, Bro. Marvin Cose, Bro. Ramil Achacoso, Bro. Marlon Suazo, Bro. Jose Brian Wong, Bro. Ramil Gulle, Bro. Ervin Dalugdugan, Bro. Romnick Penales, Sis. Elvira Achacoso, Sis. Milyn Mayake, and Sis. Rubielyn Tangapa. Beside from the mentioned pastors, the rest were church planter volunteers who faithfully serve in the outstation churches.

Rev. Andrew Kwong and Pastor Roberto Padinit together with Ms. Cinderella Banares as an English instructor were the committed teachers during the 8-month Bible Training.  The graduates acknowledged the sacrifice and diligence of their instructors during the graduation. Rev. Andrew inspired the graduates with a message about “The need to pour out ourselves in the ministry.” He stressed three main points which include pouring out yourself in ministry, pursue your calling not your potential, and train other leaders. The graduates were also blessed with the congregation’s prayer led by Rev. Rowena Kwong for the outpouring of anointing and strength to carry out their respective ministries and to commission each one of them to the work of God.

The event was followed by a wonderful fellowship time over a delicious meal. Exciting games and prizes were also prepared to liven up the celebration.  Everyone felt the love and appreciation during the gift-giving facilitated by Rev. Andrew and Rev. Rowena Kwong, the Senior Pastors acknowledged all the faithful outstation pastors, and church volunteers who gave their lives to do the work of the ministry.