On April 6, 2025, the Occidental Mindoro District of the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) experienced a profound spiritual awakening during the Apostolic Visitation of Chief Executive Minister, Apostle Jonathan S. Ferriol. The event, held at the SJOM Service Hall in Labangan Poblacion, was a testament to God’s enduring presence and a clarion call to uphold the Church’s divine mission.
Understanding Apostolic Visitation
In ecclesiastical terms, an Apostolic Visitation is a sacred journey undertaken by a senior church leader to assess, encourage, and strengthen the spiritual life of a particular congregation or district. This visitation serves as a conduit for divine guidance, fostering unity and reinforcing the Church’s mission.
“The Greatest Cause is Heaven’s Advocacy” – A Message That Resonated Deeply
Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15:58, Apostle Jonathan Ferriol delivered a compelling message urging the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith and commitment:
His words were further emphasized in Tagalog:
This bilingual delivery bridged cultural and generational gaps, uniting the district in a renewed spirit of faith and mission.
A Day Marked by Spiritual Renewal and Apostolic Fire
The Apostolic Visitation drew hundreds of 4th Watchers from across the Occidental Mindoro District, all eager to witness a fresh move of the Holy Spirit. Months of preparation culminated in a service filled with vibrant praise, heartfelt worship, and life-changing revelation.
In her welcome remarks, Pastor Merlyne Cortes aptly captured the prophetic significance of the day:
“Today, heaven’s cause takes deeper root in our province. This is our season to rise!”
Introduced by Presbyter Hilbert Cortes, Apostle Jonathan Ferriol ascended the pulpit with both pastoral warmth and apostolic authority. Reflecting on the district’s history, he honored the pioneers who sowed the Word “in tears and triumph,” declaring:
“What was planted in sacrifice will now bloom in glory!”
Testimonies of Transformation and Apostolic Encouragement
The impact of the visitation extended beyond the service itself. Reports of spiritual breakthroughs, healing, and personal revival quickly followed. One attendee testified:
“I felt the chains of doubt shatter. The Apostle’s message reminded me that our labor is not in vain—it’s for eternity.”
Expressing his own gratitude, Apostle Jonathan Ferriol shared in a heartfelt Facebook post:
He added:
Leadership Anchored in Vision and Faithfulness
Apostle Jonathan Ferriol lauded the local leadership for their unwavering dedication and spiritual foresight. Under the stewardship of Presbyter Hilbert and Pastor Merlyne Cortes, the district has flourished in unity, growth, and purpose. The Apostle described them as a “model of efficiency and mission-driven leadership,” whose tireless efforts are bearing fruit across the region.
Looking ahead, plans are already underway for expanded outreach, intensified youth discipleship, and church planting initiatives—all fueled by the divine momentum of the visitation.
A Sacred Charge to the Church: Stand Firm Until He Comes
The Apostolic Visitation 2025 was more than a gathering—it was a sacred commissioning. As Presbyter Hilbert Cortes powerfully stated: “This day is etched into our spiritual DNA. We are charged to stand firm, to labor faithfully, and to keep our eyes fixed on Heaven’s cause.”
Echoing this charge, Apostle Jonathan Ferriol concluded with a call that continues to echo in every heart: “Perseverance is not optional—it’s our covenant duty. And as we labor, let us never forget: the greatest reward is His ‘Well done.’”
To God be all the glory!
