From April 25-27, 2023, the Northern Asia-Pacific Division Stewardship Ministries Department’s Director Kim NakHyung organized the 2023 Stewardship Ministries Advisory at SANYU Health Education Center in Taiwan. The event focused on the Theme: “God First.”
The purpose of the Advisory was to awaken the stewardship spirit in these end times, a “God First” spirit to our church members. During the pandemic period, there were many crises that we faced, including economic challenges. Our churches had to change the offering-giving style to electronic devices. Therefore, a spirit of “God First” is needed for every church member. The conference was open to all Stewardship Ministries directors of NSD; approximately 21 people were in attendance.
The Taiwan Adventist Academy (TAA) student choir opened the conference. Kim NakHyung, NSD Stewardship director, gave a warm welcome and presented an inspiring message. He emphasized that mission and stewardship are the two wings of the church.
The keynote speaker was Marcos F. Bomfim, Stewardship Ministries director of the General Conference. In the beginning, he said, stewardship was God’s assignment for humanity to acknowledge Him as Creator, Redeemer, and Lord, and to manage His affairs on planet Earth, guided by God’s first principle. He reminded us that Satan has aimed to lead men to put self first. As Christians, we must be aware, knowing God is the source of everything.
During the conference, Pastor Marcos also spoke about a variety of issues impacting offering and tithe. He emphasized regular and systematic giving in his lectures from the Book of Counsel on Stewardship. The attendees enthusiastically shared their opinions, thoughts, and suggestions for consideration through the group activities, and heard many amazing, inspiring testimonies regarding stewardship from our mission fields.
During the day, conference participants had the opportunity to visit Sun-Moon-Lake and the Aboriginal Cultural Park as a refreshment in nature.
A fantastic stage was prepared for this advisory, a communion ceremony, mission reports, testimonies, a noon prayer meeting, and award distribution.
The communion ceremony was especially inspiring. During the ceremony, candlelight created a warm atmosphere. Pastor Kim NakHyung asked the attendees to put two drops of olive oil on the palm of their partner, then pray for each other. Through this activity, attendee’s hearts were inspired by the Holy Spirit and they recommitted themselves to the Lord. It was a significant time during the advisory.
At the end of the program, Pastor Marcos and Pastor Kim NakHyung stood at the door and offered a special farewell to all the attendees as an opportunity to say thank you for STW’s dedication.
All participants were very enthusiastic and blessed by the entire program. A memorable day came to an end, and the participants returned home with great joy.
We thank God for His protection and guidance for this amazing and meaningful Stewardship Ministries Advisory.