The Southern Tagalog District celebrated its 36th anniversary 2 July 2022. Over six hundred members from 19 churches joined the celebration.

The thanksgiving celebration focused on the theme Konektado sa Nakaraan (Connected to the Past).

“While our past may be a mix of good, best, and bad, [it still] contributed to who we are today,” said Jun Muncas, Southern Tagalog district superintendent. “And regardless of how ugly it may be, let us allow God’s grace to use it and weave it in order for us to be our best in the future.”

Some of the highlights of the events were the music and cultural dance presentations from the young people. Maloi Malibiran-Salumbides, a Christian broadcaster, motivational speaker, and author emphasized three key points about the theme:

• If we are connected to our past, we will be whole.
• Being connected to the past keeps us grounded and guided.
• Being connected to the past reminds us of God’s grace and goodness.

The district also gave special recognitions to pastors and members who have served the Lord in the Southern Tagalog District. The Rudy Aguillon Manaois Memorial Award, named after the first superintendent of Southern Tagalog District, was awarded to the following pastors:

• Danilo Escarez – 32 years of service
• Romeo Casama – 28 years of service
• Donald Dela Peret – 27 years of service
• Jun Sibuma – 21 years of service

Four members were also given the Rex Rey Dela Peret Award, named after the first pastor in Southern Tagalog District. The awardees are:

• Napoleon M. Gualberto from GMA Church of the Nazarene – 43 years of service
• Rhea Ronase from Bagong Bayan Church of the Nazarene – 37 years of service
• Renato Batacan from Calamba Church of the Nazarene – 37 years of service
• Rosalinda Benavides from Church of the Nazarene Indang – 35 years of service

On 9 July 2022, a second thanksgiving celebration was held in Mindoro province, part of the Southern Tagalog District. Because of logistical challenges brought by the pandemic, people from Mindoro were not able to join in the main celebration.

Two hundred attendees from five churches and other dignitaries joined the second thanksgiving event. Noah Mendoza, pastor of Harvest Community Church of the Nazarene Aroma, was the speaker during the gathering.

Furthermore, Muncas challenged those who joined in the celebration to dream not just for themselves but for God’s ministry also. He encouraged them to participate in the ministry as they continue minister to in places where the church is not yet.

--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific