Abatan, Buguias, Benguet was rather a very cold place because of its high altitude to be chosen as the venue for the national conference and election of the national officers of the Philippine Lutheran Women’s League (PLWL). But the women district officers coming from all over the country representing all four districts eagerly gathered at the Christ Lutheran Church in Abatan on November 27-30, 2015 to elect their new set of officers. The conference theme was “Imitate Me as I Imitate Christ” a verse which exemplifies leadership by example.
Prior to the election Rev. Antonio Reyes spoke on Biblical Principles of Leadership. After that, Mrs. Arlene Reyes facilitated the workshop on discovering the role of women in the church history. The women explored the Scriptures on notable women in the Bible whose character traits and achievements are worthy of emulation. Bible women characters chosen were Ruth, Dorcas, The Poor Widow, and Mary Magdalene. The traits of these women and the significant role they have played in the history of the church served as their inspiration as they crafted their vision, mission, core values and goals. Mrs. Faith Longakit, gave pointers on how to set up the goals of the organization.
Election of officers was supervised by no less than the LCP President himself, the Rev. Antonio Reyes and assisted by the Rev. Henry Paul Roa, District President of the South Luzon District. The following were elected: Miriam Valeriano from SLD-President; Nerissa Culas from NLHD-Vice President; Virginia Fernandez from SLD-Secretary; Juliet Batin from NLLD-Assistant Secretary; Ma. Teresa Roa from SLD-Treasurer; Atty Lirio Joquino from MDD-Auditor; Barbie Rivera from NLLD-Business Manager; and Divina Alida from NLHD-Press Relations Officer. The newly elected officers were installed by Rev. Reyes on Sunday November 29, 2015 during the worship service of Abatan Lutheran Church. The women’s vision for the organization was “An organization of Filipino Lutheran Women deeply committed to Christ and His mission”.
The conference was ably facilitated by the interim officers led by Mrs. Jocelyn Yanilla, Interim President and warmly and efficiently hosted by the NHLD Lutheran Women’s League under the leadership of Ms. Nerissa Culas, President. Pastor Leo Dati of Abatan Lutheran Church acted as the gracious host with Rev. Felipe Ehican, District President, NLHD overseeing the whole hosting activity. Ruth Badiang Puzon of MDD commented “I was there…so much fun, great experience, nice people around, amazing place, and above all spiritually motivated…thanks to all facilitators, and to everyone who made the event successful.. Glory to God!
