North America District Elders Conference 2026 Day 3: Dedication Night Rekindles Elders’ Love and Commitment to God
North America Elders Conference 2026 Night continued on April 23, 2026, with a meaningful and spirit-filled Dedication Night that brought together elders from different locales across the district for an evening of worship, thanksgiving, inspiring testimonies, and spiritual renewal. Held in Antioch, California, the gathering strengthened every elder’s commitment to God’s work and emphasized that true ministry is sustained not merely by position, responsibility, or service, but by a heart deeply rooted in love for God.
An Evening of Worship and Thanksgiving
The Dedication Night began with a heartfelt praise and worship led by the Antioch Locale Praise and Worship Team, with Elder Aida Moredo serving as the song leader.
The congregation joyfully lifted their voices through the songs “I Thank God” and “I Trust in God,” creating an atmosphere of gratitude, faith, and complete dependence on the Lord.
The opening prayer was led by Elder Ellen Grajo from South Bay Locale, preparing the hearts of the attendees for the spiritual messages and activities that would follow.
Living Testimonies of God’s Faithfulness
A significant highlight of the evening was the Living Testimony shared by Elder Dan Cortes, Elder Lito Salvan, and Elder Vangie Salvan from Vancouver Locale, who testified of God’s faithfulness, provision, and sustaining grace throughout their journey of service.
Elder Dan Cortes shared his testimony of experiencing God’s goodness and provision despite financial challenges. He expressed gratitude to the Lord for continuously sustaining him and allowing him to remain faithful in giving his tithes and offerings. Through his journey, he witnessed how God honors a heart that trusts Him and remains committed to His work, strengthening his desire to continue giving and serving for the glory of God.
Elder Vangie Salvan testified of God’s mercy and faithfulness, especially after experiencing a mild stroke that reminded her of His purpose and grace in her life. She also shared their family’s journey during a challenging season when Elder Lito Salvan faced difficulties in finding employment. Through the encouragement of Apostle Jonathan Santos Ferriol to dedicate themselves to the Church’s Construction Ministry, their family experienced God’s provision and blessings. She shared that while serving God requires sacrifices, the joy and fulfillment found in His work are greater than every challenge.
Elder Lito Salvan shared his personal testimony of overcoming seasons of depression, stress, anxiety, and spiritual weakness. He recalled how God restored and strengthened him during the 2023 Elders Conference in San Diego, where he experienced renewal and freedom. Through God’s grace, he regained his joy in serving and was reminded that the Lord remains faithful in every season.
Their testimonies became a powerful reminder that God continues to work through every circumstance. Despite challenges and sacrifices, His faithfulness remains constant, and He strengthens those who dedicate their lives to His service.
Pastor Kirsten Ferriol Shares “Shepherding Like Jesus”
The Offertory Message was delivered by Pastor Kirsten Ferriol with the title “Shepherding Like Jesus,” based on John 10:11.
Pastor Kirsten emphasized that Jesus, the Good Shepherd, demonstrated the highest example of sacrificial love by giving His life for His sheep. She reminded the elders that a shepherd is called to give, protect, guide, and care for those entrusted to them.
She highlighted that God sees not only what His servants give but also the sacrifices behind their service their time, resources, prayers, and dedication to His work.
The message encouraged the elders to continue carrying a shepherd’s heart, remaining faithful in serving God and His people.
Following the offertory message, the Canadian Elders from Canada Locale rendered a special song of praise entitled “Worthy of It All.”
Apostle Jonathan Santos Ferriol Delivers “An Elder’s Love” Message
The highlight of the North America District Elders Conference 2026 Day 3: Dedication Night was the keynote message delivered by Apostle Jonathan Santos Ferriol.
The introduction of the keynote speaker was led by Presbyter Joseph Concepcion, who formally presented Apostle Jonathan Santos Ferriol before the gathering of elders. His introduction prepared the hearts of everyone to receive a timely message centered on strengthening their love, commitment, and dedication to God’s work.
With the title “An Elder’s Love,” Apostle Jonathan delivered a powerful message emphasizing that love remains the foundation of every elder’s ministry and service to the Lord.
Anchored on John 21:15–17, Apostle Jonathan reflected on Jesus’ restoration of Peter after his denial. Instead of focusing on Peter’s failure, Jesus asked him the most essential question that defines true ministry: “Do you love Me?”
The Apostle explained that Jesus did not simply restore Peter’s position but restored his heart. Through this encounter, Peter was reminded that genuine ministry begins with love for God.
Apostle Jonathan emphasized that an elder’s calling is sustained not merely by responsibility or position, but by a sincere and unwavering love for God. This love becomes the strength that enables every servant to remain faithful, endure challenges, and continue caring for God’s people.
“The intention of tonight’s service is for us to refresh and to rekindle our love for God,” Apostle Jonathan shared.
Three Lessons About the Love of God
- God’s Love Shields Us From Our Mistakes
Apostle Jonathan explained that Peter personally experienced the restoring power of God’s love. He reminded the elders that it is not their position that shields them from failures, but God’s mercy, forgiveness, and love.
Through Romans 8:37–39, he emphasized that nothing can separate believers from God’s love. Despite mistakes, weaknesses, and challenges, God’s love continues to protect, restore, and strengthen His people.
- God’s Love Enables Us to Serve Him
The Apostle shared that the strength behind every labor and sacrifice in ministry comes from love for God.
Referencing 1 John 4:9–10, he reminded the elders that God first demonstrated perfect love through Jesus Christ. Because of this love, believers are empowered to continue serving despite difficulties.
Apostle Jonathan shared that the more he speaks about God’s love, the more he experiences its greatness, reminding everyone that His love should never be underestimated.
- God Wants Us to Love Him
Apostle Jonathan encouraged the elders to pursue love above all things, emphasizing that God desires not only their service but also their hearts.
Reflecting on the legacy of his father, the late Apostle Arsenio T. Ferriol, Apostle Jonathan shared his commitment to continue walking in the same spirit of love, service, and sacrifice demonstrated throughout his father’s life and ministry.
“I’m going to love the way my father loved. I’m going to serve the way he served. I’m going to sacrifice the way he sacrificed,” Apostle Jonathan declared.
He further emphasized that every action in ministry must always be guided by love, including correction and discipline.
“Even when we discipline, we discipline out of love. Whatever we do, we do it out of love. And the God who loves us will reward us accordingly,” Apostle Jonathan shared.
A Solemn Dedication Before God
Following the powerful message, the elders participated in a solemn Dedication Ceremony before the Lord.
As the congregation sang “Create in Me,” the elders came forward as a symbol of renewed commitment and surrender to God’s calling.
Apostle Jonathan Santos Ferriol, together with the pastors, presbyters, and bishops, prayed over the elders, asking God to continue strengthening, guiding, and empowering them in their ministry.
The service concluded with the closing prayer led by Presbyter Maritess Ferriol.
Renewed to Serve With Love and Faithfulness
The North America District Elders Conference 2026 Day 3: Dedication Night became a powerful reminder that the heart of every elder’s ministry is love love for God, love for His people, and love for the calling entrusted to them.
Through worship, testimonies, and the message of Apostle Jonathan Santos Ferriol, the elders were strengthened to continue serving with renewed faith, deeper commitment, and the heart of Christ.
The evening ended with a renewed dedication among the elders, carrying the reminder that true service to God is measured not only by what is accomplished, but by the love and devotion offered behind every act of service.