By: Sis. Lai Jane Flomentera
Speaker: Sis. Sherelle Cotecson
From September 22–24, 2026, twenty-eight (28) pastors of Evangel Church gathered in Marahan, Marilog District, Davao City, for a significant three-day biblical training. The gathering became a meaningful opportunity for the pastors to deepen their understanding of God’s Word, strengthen their ministry skills, and renew their commitment to faithfully serving the communities entrusted to their care.
The training centered on biblical hermeneutics, Scripture study, and practical ministry preparation. Through these sessions, the pastors were reminded that effective ministry must be firmly rooted in the truth of God’s Word. As shepherds of their respective congregations and communities, they were equipped to handle Scripture carefully and communicate its message faithfully.
The organizers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Jireh Evangel Church Planting of the Philippines (JECPP) for its support in making the training possible. Appreciation was also extended to Pastor Wee and Pastor Christine for their prayers, encouragement, and continued support. Their generosity and commitment contributed to making the gathering a meaningful and enriching experience for the participating pastors.
Deepening Their Understanding of God’s Word
A central emphasis of the training was the importance of interpreting Scripture carefully and faithfully. The pastors were taught to examine biblical passages according to their historical and literary contexts, purpose, structure, and intended message.
The sessions introduced the participants to various biblical genres, including narratives, epistles, and the Gospels. They explored the backgrounds of biblical characters, the historical settings of different passages, the original audiences, and the central teachings communicated through Scripture.
Beyond gaining knowledge, the pastors were given practical tools that could help them prepare sermons and Bible studies more effectively. The training encouraged them to approach God’s Word with humility, diligence, prayer, and reverence, recognizing the responsibility entrusted to those who teach and preach Scripture.
Strengthened Through Fellowship
The gathering extended beyond classroom instruction. Group Bible studies, discussions, prayer, worship, and fellowship created an atmosphere where the pastors could learn from one another and share experiences from their respective ministries.
These moments of fellowship strengthened their relationships and encouraged them in their calling. The pastors were reminded that ministry is not a journey that must be carried alone. Through mutual encouragement and shared experiences, they were able to strengthen one another and find renewed inspiration to continue serving faithfully.
For the participants, the training became an opportunity not only to acquire new knowledge but also to deepen their personal walk with God. The lessons helped increase their confidence in teaching and preaching while reminding them of the importance of faithfully applying biblical truth in their own lives before sharing it with others.
One participant testified that the training helped her recognize that being a woman is not a hindrance to serving God. Her experience became a reminder that faithful service is rooted in willingness, obedience, and commitment to God’s calling and His Word.
Another participant expressed that the knowledge and skills gained during the training were not intended merely for personal development. Rather, these lessons would be carried back to the churches and communities they serve, where they could be used to strengthen believers and communicate God’s truth more effectively.
Equipped to Serve, Prepared to Go
The three-day training served as a valuable opportunity for the pastors to grow spiritually and improve their ministry skills. It reminded them that God’s Word must be studied deeply, applied faithfully, and shared responsibly.
As the pastors return to their churches and communities, may the lessons they learned continue to bear fruit. May God give them wisdom, strength, and courage as they preach, teach, and serve His people.
Rooted deeply in God’s Word and equipped for faithful service, may these pastors continue to proclaim Christ and advance His Kingdom for His glory.
