Two significant events were organized and carried out at the Literature Ministry Seminary (LMS) under the leadership of the Publishing Ministries Department of the North Philippine Union Conference (NPUC) from September 6-8, 2024. The events were the 11th LMS Alumni Homecoming and the 20th Graduation Exercises. The last gathering of this kind took place in 2018 and was subsequently put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year’s theme, “From Trials to Triumphs,” resonated deeply with the experiences of literature evangelists, whose work, though filled with many challenges, ultimately yields the rewards of triumph.
11th LMS Alumni Homecoming
Key figures at the celebration included Pastor Claro Vicente, the first LMS Director. He recounted the early challenges LMS faced, from lacking a training facility to finally constructing a permanent building and developing training materials. These materials are now adapted and used in all LMS throughout the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD).
Atemio Jimenez also shared his testimony from being a medical representative driven by a desire for wealth, he became a literature evangelist as God has other plans for him. He eventually retired as treasurer of the Philippine Publishing House (PPH). Luzviminda Aquino, now 87 years old, was also present at the homecoming. With 38 years of service as a literature evangelist and LMS staff, her dedication to the literature ministry continues even today.
In his keynote address, Jose Zabat Jr., NPUC Executive Secretary emphasized that publishing work extends beyond selling books. He said, “Your work is not just selling books; it’s about sharing life-changing ideas; your mission is to bring light and hope.” Expounding on Ellen White’s statement that “Publications should be scattered like the leaves of autumn,” Zabat underscored the importance of spreading the gospel far and wide, “using any means necessary.” He remarked, “Digital platforms allow us to reach a wider audience.” Nevertheless, he also acknowledged, “Person-to-person and heart-to-heart ministry undoubtedly touches human lives more than any other methods.”
During the Divine Worship, Rey Cabañero, SSD Publishing Director urged attendees to have confidence that God can use them in His work, not a cause for delay but to hasten the work, for God is coming soon.
Gerry Cajobe, NPUC President, called on all attendees to recommit to the mission, despite difficulties. He encouraged them to give importance to things that are important to God – caring for subscribers and leading them to the feet of Jesus.
20th Graduation Exercises
Following the Homecoming event, the 20th Graduation Exercises took place, where 91 literature evangelists received their diplomas. Among them, 42 graduated from the Career Level, and 49 completed the Intermediate Level.
The Intermediate Level requires an equivalent of 32 hours of coursework, to finish the following subjects: Home and Family I, Sales Management II, Salesmanship III, and Prophetic Guidance.
The Career Level is more extensive, consisting of five stages that take five years to complete, as only one career level can be taken per year. Each level demands an equivalent of 32 hours of training, totaling 160 hours for the entire program. Although many begin this course, only a few complete it due to various challenges, such as meeting sales requirements or managing busy schedules. That’s why the joy of those who completed this five-year emphasize is truly immense.
One of the graduates of Career Level, Sally Samudio from Catanduanes shared her testimony about the impact of LMS training on her faith. Attending LMS training strengthened her faith amidst trials. Moreover, the devotional messages and lectures on marketing and sales, significantly improved her selling abilities, enabling her to maintain her status as a credentialed literature evangelist. In 2023, she achieved an impressive record by selling 1 million pesos worth of books and magazines.
Abraham del Rosario, NPUC Publishing Director addressed the graduates as the bookman army who should be faithful like Joseph and David. He encouraged them to make the most of every moment to further the work of saving souls, and to avoid spending their entrusted time on worthless pursuits.
With renewed spirits, the graduates and alumni members went home ready to fulfill the new challenges they received. They are prepared to face trials as a part of serving the Lord because there is hope of triumph in the heavenly home prepared for the faithful.
