Greetings brethren! In the third week of June we had the pleasure of holding an Asian Leadership Conference at the Great Eastern Hotel (Aberdeen Court) in Quezon City. A total of twenty-five attendees from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao participated in the conference. We also had the privilege of having Jim Franks, Director of Ministerial Services, conduct the conference. As we continue to develop our leadership in Asia, we felt it was very important to focus on the doctrines of the Church.

The conference began on Tuesday evening, June 19 with an evening meal. After much fellowship everyone adjourned to their rooms for a good night of restful sleep. The following day began with a presentation by Mr. Jim Franks entitled “Introduction to Doctrine; Teaching as You Have Been Taught.” After a short break I gave the second presentation on “The Miracle of God’s Calling/Understanding Conversion.” After lunch Mr. Franks presented a lecture on “The Nature of God/Divinity of Christ” followed by Mr. Florante Siopan’s lecture on the fundamental belief on “The Sabbath.” The last lecture of the first day was presented by Mr. Eriz Dizon on “The Resurrections.” At the conclusion of the lectures a general Question and Answer session was held.

On Thursday, June 21 the conference continued with a presentation given by Mr. Franks on “Repentance & Baptism.” The second presentation of the day was given by Mr. Rey Evasco on the fundamental belief on “The Holy Days.” After lunch, Mr. Ed Macaraeg presented a PowerPoint presentation on the fundamental belief “Three Days and Three Nights.” The concluding lecture was given by Mr. Franks on “The Purpose for Humanity.” The final portion of the conference was a 100-question quiz on the Fundamental Beliefs of the Church. Everyone who participated in the quiz really enjoyed the exercise.

The conference was a very enjoyable opportunity to fellowship and develop our leadership skills as we strive to serve members of the Church in Asia. As God continues to bless us with very good growth in Good News subscribers and members, it is important that we focus on developing leaders to serve those being called.

I look forward to seeing many of you during my next trip to Asia.

© 2007 United Church of God, AIA - Pilipinas