The News Today Online

Adventists celebrate 100 years

By Wein P. Gadian

The Seventh-day Adventist Church has been known for their worship on Fridays rather than the usual Sunday services like other denominations. They also have some fundamental beliefs which are incorporated in their Vision and Mission Statement. Their Vision reveals their belief in harmony with the great prophecies of the Scriptures and they see to it the climax of God's plan, the restoration of all His creation to full harmony with His perfect will and righteousness. Its Mission statement in line of its vision says: to proclaim to all peoples the everlasting gospel in the context of the three angels' messages of Revelation 14:6-12, leading them to accept Jesus as personal Savior and to unite with His church, and nurturing them in preparation for His soon return.

And they realized this mission in the guidance of the Holy Spirit through the following: preaching, teaching and healing. On top of everything they accept the Bible as their only creed and hold certain fundamental beliefs to be the teaching of the Holy Scriptures. These beliefs are: Holy Scriptures (Old and New Testaments of the Bible), The Trinity, The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit. Also included are: Creation, the nature of man, the great controversy between God and Satan, the passion of Christ, experience of salvation, the church among others. These beliefs constitute the church's understanding and expression of the teaching of the Scripture. Although there could be revision on the statements in a General Conference Session where the delegates (executive committee) are led to discernment on knowing God's words. The General Conference is the most extensive unit of the organization, made up of all unions/entities in all parts of the world.

The Adventists, as their history shows, they are one of the fastest growing churches in the world. From a handful of individuals who carefully studied the bible in their search for truth has grown a world-wide community. In the Philippines since its founding here in 1905 of bringing God's word it has evolved into a more friendly church and opened its doors to those who are in search for the truth. In Iloilo, Adventist churches co-celebrate this memorable year along with various activities simultaneous all over the country.

Adventist church in Iloilo launched its centennial year at the Fountain Area of Robinsons Iloilo last December 30. The event includes a culminating activity, a music festival, presscon among others. An awards night search for their Most Outstanding Adventists in the District at their church at Fajardo, Jaro. Prior to the event was also a caravan within the city. It's centennial year also gave more opportunities for most Ilonggos who need health care through their medical mission.

Remnant Healthcare Center also offered free services on the day. And apart from these activities, the Adventists also shared their testimonies on the blessings they received. They also introduced series of talks dubbed 'My Home, My Health and My Friend' which focuses on health, values and discipline. A much more unforgettable happening was the unveiling of its historical marker at the Fajardo, Jaro Seventh-Day Adventist Church. As the year begins for the Adventists grand celebration it also shares to all how to fill life with celebrations.

And since they take care of their health. This celebrations for them means: Make the best choices, exercise, drink enough liquid, care for the environment, belief in God, enough rest or sleep, avoidance of cigarette smoke and other air pollutants (maintaining clean air), temperance in unhealthy behaviors, integrity in everything, optimism in life, good nutrition for the body and acting as stewards for each and everyone. Thus every Adventist says that one should indulge in these good things, enjoy them and be thankful for them.

For inquiries on Adventists beliefs you can visit their churches. You can go to their church in Jalandoni Street Iloilo City or Fajardo, Jaro. They are friendly people so feel free to approach any of them!