Bustos, Bulacan | August 23, 2024 – Addressing over 1,000 elders at the International Elders Fellowship held at the Galilee Sanctuary Worship Center, Bustos, Bulacan, Apostle Jonathan S. Ferriol, Chief Executive Minister of the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch), delivered a powerful message emphasizing the essential role of elders as “keepers” of the faith, their families, and the church. The event, also livestreamed to a global audience, underscored the critical responsibilities of spiritual leaders within the church, urging them to uphold their calling with discipline and commitment.
Drawing from Acts 20:28, Apostle Jonathan stressed the importance of vigilance in one’s spiritual journey. “We must watch ourselves. So much is at stake. We cannot afford to lose ourselves—for the sake of our souls, our families, our flocks, and our churches,” he declared. His message resonated with the congregation as he called on the elders to internalize their identity as keepers and to consciously choose to use their positions for the glory of God. “I am a keeper,” he proclaimed, encouraging each elder to embody this responsibility.
Apostle highlighted the vast potential for good that resides within every elder. Citing scriptures such as 1 Corinthians 9:27 and 2 Corinthians 12:9, he urged the elders to maintain self-discipline and to protect the gifts they have been given. “Do not cheapen your gift,” he warned, emphasizing the need for productive partnerships and alliances among church leaders to strengthen their ministries.
He also spoke about the responsibility of elders to preserve the church and guide the next generation. He urged the elders to never hesitate in pushing their children towards ministry, emphasizing that preserving the church should be a family legacy. “Celebrate your marriage,” he advised, linking strong marriages to strong families, and in turn, a stronger church. He warned that the enemy is always trying to undermine families and the church, making the role of elders even more vital.
The International Elders Fellowship was a day filled with spiritual reflection and worship. Elder Olga and Elder TJ Torres skillfully guided the event as masters of ceremonies, while praise and worship were led by Elder Rachel Pastor and Elder Julius Ruviar, together with the Marikina Elders Praise and Worship Team. Presbyter Marina De Luna, Patmos Area Coordinator, opened the event with a warm welcome, emphasizing the significance of gathering in unity.
Elders from various locales shared powerful testimonies of faith and service. A video testimony by Elder Mario Tionco from Davao Locale and a live testimony by Elder Roger Matibag offered insights into their spiritual journeys and the impact of their roles as elders. Songs of Praise by the Patmos Area (Bulacan Province) Elders and the Jerusalem Area (Southern Manila) Elders further enriched the spiritual atmosphere, leading the congregation into deeper worship. During the offertory, Elder Jhona Ting encouraged everyone to support the church’s ongoing ministries, reminding the congregation of the collective responsibility in advancing the church’s mission.
As the event drew to a close, Apostle Jonathan’s message remained at the forefront of the attendees’ minds. He concluded his message with a prayer focused on the holistic growth and blessings of the elders, their families, and their ministries. The service ended with a powerful benediction that left the congregation feeling spiritually recharged.
To honor Apostle Ferriol’s impactful message, Presbyter Rowena Marbida and Presbyter Evelyn Fremista presented him with a plaque of appreciation, acknowledging his dedication and spirit-filled preaching. The closing prayer was powerfully delivered by Presbyter Evelyn Fremista. The event successfully reinforced the commitment of the elders to their roles as keepers, inspiring them to continue their work with renewed vigor and dedication.
