Students from the provinces of Palawan, Negros, Camarines Sur, and Albay heard the messages loud and clear, and they are up and ready to make a stand for the “TRUTH” when school season begins this June. “Fighting for Certainty in an Age of Deception” was one of the major topics that were preached during the 12th SMO National Biennial Conference held on 7-11 April 2008 at Naga View Adventist College, Naga City, Camarines Sur. The conference theme “Stand for the Truth” couldn’t be more relevant especially when the nation faces a period of uncertainty in almost all realms (politics, economy, faith). “Stand for the Truth” Series, Spiritual Disciplines, and the urgency of the Biblical Evangelism and Discipleship were among the topics that were preached.

The conference were attend by 160 students, youth leaders, missionaries, pastors, and lay people. Pastor Edgar Santonia, SMO Coordinator in Naga, delegated responsibilities to his church members and his network of friends to make sure that the conference flowed smoothly.

Since this is a “youth” conference, some fun time could not be discounted. It’s great to see students from different cultural background could find unity in Christ. It’s also encouraging to that the days and weeks after this conference, friendly relationships have been formed and maintained through “texting” (sending SMS) and linking up with anyone’s Friendster account.

On the sidelines, some of the delegates were brought around the province and neighboring Albay for a day-long tour. Among the significant stops were a visit at a village completely wiped out by lahar during a recent eruption of Mayon volcano. The scene was nothing but eerie. Just a few kilometers away stood the residence and church of Pastor Batalla (the ministry’s new worker in Legazpi), which was spared from nature’s wrath.

SMO thanks those who have supported us in their prayers and those who have extended financial support to make this year’s conference a success. To God be the glory.

THE 12TH SMO NATIONAL BIENNIAL CONFERENCE will be on 7-11 April 2008 in Naga City, Bicol Province. Event details can be viewed at http://smoconference.wordpress.com

CONFERENCE TOPICS

Challenges:

Truth Matters: Fighting for Certainty in an Age of Deception
Stand for the Truth by Knowing It
Stand for the Truth by Living It
Stand for the Truth by Sharing It
Stand for the Truth by Defending It
John: A Man of Passion who Courageously Contend for the Truth
Paul: A Man of Persistence who Zealously Share the Truth
Daniel: A Man of Purity who Willingly Live and Die for the Truth

Lectures:

Evangelism
Discipleship
How to Start and Maintain a Campus Ministry
Biblical Intake as a Spiritual Discipline
Prayer and Worship as a Spiritual Discipline
Service and Stewardship as a Spiritual Discipline