04/07/2026
๐๐๐จ๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐๐ซ๐ฒ ๐๐ข๐๐ค-๐๐๐
Yesterday, we finally held our Paoay Ward Seminary Kick-Off Activity. Although it was scheduled a little later than planned due to our many activities in June, we truly felt that the Lordโs timing was perfect.
It was especially meaningful because the leaders had recently attended the Seminary and Institute Convention. Through the inspired trainings we received, together with our bishops and youth leaders, we gained a greater understanding of how we can strengthen Seminary in our own wards and better assist in the work of God.
One of our goals for the kick-off was to invite not only our youth but also their parents and youth leaders. We wanted to emphasize the importance of Children and Youth Protection by ensuring that an adult is present in every Seminary class aside from the teacher. We were grateful that we were able to create a class schedule together, and many parents and leaders willingly committed to help throughout the semester.
We were also blessed to have Brother Jared De Leon, our new Stake Seminary and Institute Supervisor, as our speaker. His orientation, inspired message, and powerful testimony about Seminary touched the hearts of our youth and encouraged them to continue attending faithfully.
We are equally grateful for the support of our bishop, Bishop Franklin Apostol, whose encouragement continues to strengthen this effort. We are also thankful for our dedicated Seminary teachers, Sister Jona Mendoza and our newly called teacher, Brother Paul Abucay, who prepared activities that were not only fun and engaging but also centered on the gospel. It was a joy to see the parents and youth leaders actively participate alongside the youth, making the entire experience more meaningful and memorable.
Seeing so many youth, parents, and leaders attend was truly a blessing. It reminded us that Seminary becomes stronger when teachers, leaders, and parents work together with one purpose. We are grateful for the guidance and training provided through Seminary and Institute in the Laoag Mission, which continues to help us better serve our youth.
More than anything, it was a blessing to witness the smiles of our youth, their willingness to participate, and their growing testimonies. We pray that this semester, Seminary will continue to strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ, deepen their conversion, and help them stay on the covenant path.
The work of salvation and exaltation is best accomplished as families, leaders, and teachers labor together in helping our youth come unto Christ. ๐ค