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In a recent collaborative effort, Dr. Armand T. Fabella, a certified US Master Life Coach, and Pr. Arnel A. Gabin, the Vice President for Nurturing Discipleship Retention-Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle (NDR-EIL) in the Adventist Church in the Southern Asia-Pacific, facilitated a transformative coaching event aimed at enhancing communication, leadership, and engagement within the Adventist community. The Life Coach Reclaimer’s Trainers Training for two unions in the South Philippines, held from January 22 to 24, 2024, at the SWPUC Guest House, brought together participants from missions and conferences across Mindanao.

The initiative focused on reclaiming members who left the church and developing skills to understand and connect with church members who may have strayed. Emphasizing Christ’s communication methods as highlighted in the Bible, the program delved into effective ways of responding to people in need, covering topics ranging from leadership to personality development.

Research indicates that 40% of baptized individuals eventually leave the church. In the span from 1965 to the present day, a staggering 42,294,215 people joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church. However, within the same timeframe, a significant 17,594,544 individuals made the decision to leave. *data from the 2022 ANNUAL COUNCIL REPORT as presented by David Trim, director of Archives, Statistics, and Research (ASTR)

One of the key highlights of this coaching program is its emphasis on mental health and gospel study, setting the tone for the year ahead. Jerrymil Pamonag, SWPUC Vice President for the NDR-EIL department, underscored the importance of gaining essential skills for effectively dealing with members of the church and people facing various life challenges."Pamonag expressed, 'God has granted us the wisdom to discover means of extending the blessing of hope to those who are vulnerable and alone.' He emphasized that the church's ministry goes beyond the pulpit, reaching into communities beyond our comfort zones to share the transformative message of Jesus and His love with those in desperate need."

Beyond the individual skills acquired, the coaching program contributes to the creation of a more connected and supportive Adventist community. By addressing the pressing need for understanding and connecting with individuals who may have strayed, the initiative fosters a sense of belongingness and community within the broader Adventist network. Attendees not only gain valuable skills for personal and spiritual growth but also become integral contributors to a more cohesive and supportive Adventist community.

In essence, this transformative coaching initiative not only equips participants with practical skills but also plays a pivotal role in strengthening the bonds of the Adventist community, emphasizing the importance of connection and support in the journey of faith.

Quin Salarda, Southwestern Philippine Union Conference Communication Department

The original version of this story was posted on the Southwestern Philippines Union Conference (former South Philippine Union Conference) website.