Speaking after the opening songs and prayer, Pastor Eyriche Cortez, Pastor of Makati Gospel Church, led the devotional. From Colossians 4:17, Pastor Eyriche challenged the participants to fulfill the ministry they have received from the Lord. He said many trials and difficulties will come along the way, but God’s grace and provision is sufficient. His life, he narrated, is a testimony to this. Resigning from a stable and high-paying job, he decided to follow God’s call to serve in the ministry. Surely, they went through a lot of financial difficulties, but God sustained them. He said it is only the ministry which could equal the excitement of his former work. Concluding, he said “it’s a privilege to serve the Lord.”

 

 

 

The first session’s topic was team ministry where Wil and Jackie showed the importance of working together inspite of differences. Citing from their personal life experiences, they said each of them had a different background, attitudes brought about by how they were reared. And sometimes, these could be a source of misunderstanding if not properly communicated. But after threshing out these differences, they said, they have learned to work together as a team and saw its benefit. In conclusion, they said that it takes maturity in faith to work as a team, but in doing so, each one’s spiritual gifts, talents and education can be shared and create a warmer relationship not only to each other but to those they minister. After this session, the participants were divided into two groups; Wil with men and Jackie with women. The topic they discussed was about resolving conflict. Both groups explored the source of conflict and from a biblical perspective, learned to resolve conflict God’s way.

 

 

 

After a hearty lunch, two more sessions followed. The topic on Balancing Ministry and Family helped the participants realize the importance of setting priorities with regards to ministry and family. Recognizing the call to show care and compassion to hurting people, Wil and Jackie nonetheless stressed the importance of being cautious that “we do not allow our labor in the name of God to put our marriage, family and other significant relationships in peril.”

 

 

 

In a concluding topic on A Call to Excellence in Life, Family and Ministry, Wil and Jackie led the participants to examine the proposition that excellence comes as we find our rest in Christ and model Christ-likeness as we care for the flock—beginning with our own household.

 

 

 

During the closing ceremonies, 50 participants/delegates coming from Ifugao, Tarlac, Pampanga, Laguna and Cavite, received a special gift to help with their transportation. Also, CLAIM (Christian Literature for Asians in Ministry) set consisting of 3 books (Get Involved, Wasted Faith and The Heart of the Cross) were given to each delegates. CLAIM is a special joint project of CGM and ACTION to help provide and equip pastors and Christian workers with Bible-based resources. A book, Psalm 119 Lamplight for Couples, written by Wil Chevalier, was also given to each couple.

 

 

 

Many delegates expressed their appreciation to Dr. Wil and Jackie through the evaluation forms they submitted. Most of them wanted a repeat and hope that CGM/ACTION will continue this kind of ministry. The following are some encouraging comments from the participants:

 

 

  • The seminar has made a big significant effect in me. I was motivated to excel more in my ministry. I was enlightened and the topics have strengthened me spiritually.

- Ptra. Vivian de Leon, Love of Jesus Christian Church

  • The illustrations used by the speakers are very good that helped me understand more the topics discussed.

- Jacinto Roldan, Binangonan, Rizal

  • I was blessed and equipped to balance my ministry.

- Ptr. Jesus Roque, Agape Love Full Gospel Ministry

  • Thank you for serving us through this seminar. It is a great help to me and my ministry.

- Ptr. Eduardo Abulan, Binangonan, Rizal

  • The conference helped me balance my ministry and family.

- Joy Alojado, Jesus The Good Shepherd River of Life Church

  • Very good seminar and speakers.

- Ptr. Ronald Bacani, Door of Faith Church

 

 

 

 

  • I thank God for CGM and ACTION for sponsoring this seminar. I gained so much knowledge about family and ministry.

- Alex Fullantes, Jesus The Source of Grace and Truth Ministries

  • Thank you for empowering and helping us to become better servants for His work and glory.

- Sister Estela, Door of Faith, Cavite Chapter

  • Good and sound teachings! I learned a lot. Thank you.

- Reagan Mesia, Grace Gospel Church

  • The messages are good. The books – these will be very useful in my ministry. I enjoyed the seminar so much. Thank you!

- Sister Lorelei Danguilan, South Manila Alliance Church