LEAD VISAYAS 2026 Empowers Apostolic Youth to Rise, Serve, and Lead

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Young Apostolic leaders from across the Visayas Region gathered at Flor De Lize Inn in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo City, for LEAD VISAYAS 2026, the third leg of the LEAD 2026 leadership initiative facilitated by the International Young Watchers Department (IYWD).

The gathering brought together Locale Youth Presidents, Vice Presidents, and District Representatives from Central Visayas, Negros Island Region, Panay Island, Romblon, Leyte, Samar Island, and Iloilo-Guimaras District.

Despite challenging weather conditions and the need to travel across islands, the youth leaders arrived with enthusiasm and determination to strengthen their Apostolic leadership, develop their capabilities, and prepare themselves for greater responsibilities in the work of God.

With the vision of raising young leaders who are willing to serve, steadfast in faith, and committed to the Apostolic Mission, LEAD VISAYAS 2026 provided a meaningful platform for learning, collaboration, spiritual formation, and leadership development.

LEAD VISAYAS 2026 Unites Young Leaders Through a Common Vision

The morning assembly opened with an energetic welcome dance presented by the young watchers of the Iloilo-Guimaras District, showcasing their God-given talents for the glory of God.

Joyful songs of praise followed, filling the venue with worship as the delegates lifted up the name of the Lord. Pastor Cecille Mendoza led the opening prayer, while Sister KC Ferriol served as the program host, guiding the delegates throughout the different sessions.

The gathering continued with welcoming remarks from Sister Yumi Sico, Assistant Adviser of the International Young Watchers Department, who warmly greeted the youth leaders and encouraged them to maximize the opportunity to learn and grow together.

An icebreaker challenge energized the delegates and strengthened camaraderie before they proceeded to their respective district and locale huddles.

Young Trailblazers Strengthen Unity Through Collaboration

One of the highlights of LEAD VISAYAS 2026 was the district huddle, where youth leaders gathered with their respective teams to discuss plans, exchange ideas, and collaborate on strategies for strengthening their local youth ministries.

The venue became a space for meaningful conversations as representatives presented their district updates, accomplishments, and best practices. They also shared programs and strategies designed to establish and develop the young people’s ministry within their respective locales.

The collaborative discussions encouraged the youth leaders to learn from one another and recognize the importance of working together in fulfilling their responsibilities.

At the same time, Visayas District Advisers participated in a separate seminar at Pavia Locale led by Sister Yumi Sico. The session focused on the role of advisers in shepherding and understanding the needs of Fourth Watch young people.

The seminar emphasized the commitment and responsibility of advisers to help the next generation become Christ-centered, Spirit-filled, mission-driven, and Apostolic in preparation for the end-time work of God.

IYWD Programs Nurture Faith and Spiritual Formation

The afternoon session resumed with another time of praise and worship before the core officers of the International Young Watchers Department presented key IYWD programs and initiatives.

Sister KC Ferriol introduced the Wakemakers initiative, the IYWD’s discipleship matrix program centered on the values of “Encourage. Empower. Edify.”

The program seeks to equip young people to guide new believers, help them become anchored in their faith, and encourage them to become active members of the church.

Meanwhile, Sister Meilene Sapida discussed the Cadets Discipling Ministry, emphasizing the importance of establishing Cadets services that can help young people develop strong Christian values and a clear understanding of their identity as children of God.

The ministry also aims to equip young minds to grow in the knowledge and grace of the Lord while providing them with a strong spiritual foundation.

The delegates were also introduced to the Youth Month 2026 Primer for September. Sister Sheena Mejarito provided insights into the month-long celebration and its planned activities, designed to inspire and transform young watchers in their spiritual lives.

“Elements of a Successful Leadership” Challenges Youth Leaders

The highlight of the leadership training was the ministry of Pastor and Attorney Benjamin Sico, who delivered a message entitled “Elements of a Successful Leadership,” based on Psalm 78:70–72.

Drawing lessons from the life of David, Pastor Sico emphasized the qualities that characterize effective and God-centered leadership. He highlighted two important elements: an upright heart and skillful hands.

An upright heart, he explained, must be rooted in Christ and carefully guarded because a person’s actions and conduct reveal what is within the heart.

At the same time, leaders must develop skillful hands—the ability, competence, and discipline necessary to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

Pastor Sico emphasized that leadership is not merely about possessing skills but also about having a heart fully surrendered to God.

“Successful leadership requires skillful hands, but great leadership begins with a surrendered heart. Skill can make you effective, but a heart aligned with God makes your leadership impactful.”

The message reminded the young leaders that they serve an excellent God and should therefore strive for excellence in everything they do.

The challenge was clear: Be the best leader you can be for God. Whatever responsibility is entrusted to them, young leaders are called to serve faithfully and give their best for the Lord.

LEAD VISAYAS 2026 Concludes with a Prayer of Dedication

The gathering concluded with a powerful time of prayer and dedication led by Pastor and Attorney Benjamin Sico.

The youth leaders were given an opportunity to surrender their lives and ministry to God in a Spirit-filled prayer, sealing their commitment to serve faithfully and fulfill their responsibilities as young Apostolic leaders.

The moment served as a spiritual response to everything they had learned throughout LEAD VISAYAS 2026. Beyond acquiring leadership knowledge and developing practical skills, the delegates were reminded that effective Christian leadership begins with a heart surrendered to God.

Young Apostolic Leaders Equipped to Serve and Lead

LEAD VISAYAS 2026 successfully brought together young Apostolic leaders from across the Visayas Region for a time of leadership development, collaboration, biblical instruction, and spiritual renewal.

The gathering equipped participants with practical insights while strengthening their understanding of their responsibilities as young leaders in the church.

More importantly, the event reminded the delegates that leadership in the work of God is not simply about holding a position. It is about serving with humility, leading by example, remaining faithful to Christ, and using one’s God-given abilities for His glory.

With renewed spirits and hearts committed to service, the young leaders of the Visayas Region move forward ready to rise, serve, and lead—strengthening their fellow young watchers and contributing to a vibrant and Apostolic ministry for the glory of God.