True ministry often happens at the intersection of how we speak to the world and how we protect our right to share that message. This was the central focus on February 7, 2026, as the Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL) and Communication Departments hosted a mission-wide Grand Fellowship at Wong’s Multipurpose Building in General Santos City. The gathering brought together a unique blend of 65 participants, including church elders, communication officers, and Adventist lawyers, all unified by a single purpose: to strengthen the church’s voice in society. The atmosphere was one of high-level collaboration, recognizing that in today’s complex world, the work of defending religious freedom and the art of effective communication must go hand in hand to successfully advance the mission of the gospel.
The fellowship was deeply enriched by a powerhouse of speakers who provided a global and local perspective on advocacy. Elder Jibil Simbah from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division shared profound insights into the international landscape of religious liberty, while Sir Rhoen Shane Catolico of the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission challenged leaders to use modern media as a bridge for community engagement. Adding a crucial legal dimension, Atty. Minvi Gulle provided practical guidance for Adventist lawyers and leaders on navigating the legalities of faith in the public sphere. Together, their presentations underscored that being “united in service” means more than just working in the same direction; it means building a sophisticated network of informed advocates who can represent Christ with excellence and integrity.
As the event concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of partnership and a clearer roadmap for the future. The fellowship successfully provided a platform where legal expertise met creative ministry, empowering local leaders to return to their districts with better tools for public engagement. By fostering this spirit of cooperation among lawyers and communicators, the Southern Mindanao Mission has reinforced a vital foundation for serving both the church and the wider community. It was a day that proved when we align our voices and our visions, we create a resonance that can be heard far beyond the walls of the church, standing firm for religious liberty.
