Wongโs Multi-Purpose Building inside the Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM) Compound came alive with praise and fellowship on May 31, 2026, as Student Literature Evangelists (SLEs) from all over the territory gathered for a heartwarming thanksgiving celebration. The special event was dedicated to expressing gratitude to God for His unwavering guidance, divine protection, and the abundant blessings poured out upon the students during their recent literature evangelism ministry.
Led by Pastor Ian Basco, the Publishing Ministries Director of the Southern Mindanao Mission, the gathering served as both a spiritual retreat and a celebration of missionary labor. The students received a powerful charge from guest speaker Pastor Danny Inato, the publishing director of the South Eastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM). In his message, Pastor Inato challenged the young canvassers to remain deeply committed to their sacred calling. He reminded them that every book, magazine, and tract they placed in the hands of the public is a spiritual seed with the potential to lead searching souls to Christ.
The highlight of the celebration was the sharing of moving testimonies from the student evangelists themselves. One after another, the young missionaries recounted stories of how God miraculously opened doors for ministry, provided for their financial and physical needs, and touched the lives of strangers through the printed page. These stories, interspersed with uplifting songs of praise and interactive fellowship activities, created an atmosphere of deep unity and gratitude throughout the hall.
The program also served as a formal recognition of the immense sacrifice made by these students, who chose to spend their vacation time on the frontlines of faith, sharing hope and comfort through Christian literature. Church leaders noted that the students’ perseverance and missionary spirit are living proof that the literature ministry remains a potent, irreplaceable tool in spreading the gospel message and preparing hearts for Christ’s soon return.
As the Thanksgiving Celebration drew to a close, the participants left Wong’s Multi-Purpose Building with renewed inspiration, carrying a burning desire to continue serving God wherever He leads. The event stood as a beautiful testament to Godโs faithfulness and the incredible impact that young people can make when they willingly answer the call to serve in His vineyard.
Photos by Hope Channel Southern Mindanao | Serene Shekinah D. Boncavil
