Malaybalay City, Bukidnon: East and West Mindanao Districts of the Church of the Nazarene celebrated a milestone anniversary, Sidlak Mindanao, from 21 to 23 June, 2024, at Mt. Moriah Camp in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. The momentous three-day event brought together Nazarenes from across Mindanao to celebrate 50 years of God’s faithfulness and provision for the church. The celebration featured fun-filled activities, including a fun fair, booths, and games for all ages on the first day.
The second day saw a community engagement event at the Malaybalay Church of the Nazarene, the very first Nazarene church in Mindanao. Participants helped in the wall painting and mural activities. Children also had a blast with face painting and an exciting session in the Child-Friendly Space.
Sidlak Mindanao celebration was graced with powerful plenary messages from honored guests. Regional Compassionate Ministries Coordinator Leody Tan Echavez III spoke on “We Are Connected” and emphasized the importance of being Connected as a church. Field Strategy Coordinator for Philippines-Micronesia Field Rev. Arnel Piliin highlighted the significance of our core value “We are Holiness” and encouraged the participants to live a life of holiness. On the final day, Global NMI President Pastora Christine T. Mosuela challenged participants to be “Missional” and live a missional life.
The event culminated in a Communion service led by District Superintendents Rev. Erene Pastor and Rev. Dan Balayo. A Commissioning service followed, where Field Strategy Coordinator Rev. Arnel Piliin anointed and prayed for the District Superintendents of East and West Mindanao as well as the assistant DS of West Mindanao. The District Superintendents then anointed and prayed for each pastor and each pastor did likewise to all the members present.
Sidlak Mindanao was truly a heartwarming celebration of God’s faithfulness and a call to action for Nazarenes in Mindanao to “Sidlak” (shine) for Jesus and inspire the next generation to do the same, spreading the light of Christ to those around them.
Written by: Lillian Tambongco – Philippines Micronesia Field
