28/09/2025
𝐍𝐃𝐌 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧
Tagum City, Philippines — The Northern Davao Mission (NDM) successfully held its Children’s Ministries Certification Level I on September 26–27, 2025 at Tagum SDA Elementary School with the theme “Nurturing Children for a Mission.” The event gathered delegates from various districts across the mission field, all united in their desire to strengthen children’s ministries in their local churches.
The certification opened on Friday evening with an inspiring keynote message from Pastor Jonathan Maslog, NDM Ministerial Secretary, who reminded leaders that children’s ministries is not just a program but a mission that requires dedication and vision.
Throughout the two-day event, participants were blessed with insightful lectures from a roster of committed speakers: Geraldine Cacho, Lealyn Arante, Arleen Punay, Joy Cabardo, Charise Campado Rio, Ivy Mae Esteban, and Annielyn Panuncio. Each presenter tackled unique topics designed to equip leaders with practical tools and spiritual insights for nurturing children. Their messages emphasized holistic development—helping children grow mentally, socially, and spiritually in Christ.
A special highlight came on Sabbath morning when Ma’am Jill Palomares, Children’s Ministries and MSA Director of the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM), served as the divine service speaker. Her powerful message encouraged delegates to see children not merely as future church leaders but as disciples actively engaged in God’s mission today.
The spiritual journey reached its peak on Sabbath afternoon with a commitment service led by Pastor Jasper Love Panuncio, NDM Executive Secretary. In his heartfelt appeal, he called leaders to dedicate their talents, time, and energy for the salvation and growth of young people. Many responded with renewed commitment to serve faithfully in their respective churches and communities.
The event was spearheaded by Ma’am Mary Chyl Suan, NDM Children’s Ministries and MSA Director, whose leadership and passion guided the success of the certification. She emphasized that the training was not only about acquiring knowledge but also about rekindling the mission spirit among leaders entrusted with the care of children.
The NDM Children’s Ministries Certification Level I proved to be more than just a seminar—it was a call to mission. Leaders returned to their districts inspired and empowered to nurture children in the faith, echoing Christ’s words in Matthew 19:14: “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
