Multiple Denominations Gather to Discuss Unity in Preach Seminar
16 September 2024|
The “Preach” seminar held in Central Philippines was an annual event on August 15, bringing together representatives from numerous denominations to discuss Christian Unity. The initiative promoted an open and honest dialogue about foundational beliefs to inform better and get to the heart of faith. Pastors and representatives from the United Pentecostal Church, Baptist Church, Church of the Nazarene, and Roman Catholic congregations collected to promote a healthy exchange and find common ground in the gospel to create lasting connections to partner in evangelism.
According to coverage of the event, the seminar had two goals:
“First, they sought to emphasize the shared mission of all Christians: proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. Second, they aimed to encourage unity among denominations, inspiring collaboration despite doctrinal differences.”
A main part of the dialogue was to confront misconceptions each denomination held about the other. Holding onto misinformation has fostered barriers that prohibit unity and, at times, basic respect. By openly confronting these biases, the religious leaders spoke on the central faith principles of their religious affiliations. The “Preach“ seminar was able to focus on similarities rather than differences.
The majority of the seminar was focused on small-group discussions where guided conversations could take place and build strong inter-denominational relationships. Felixian T. Felicitas, field secretary of the Adventist Church in the Southern Asia-Pacific region, was a main speaker, whose main topic centered on the grace found at Calvary and how this grace unites all believers in their commitment to God.
The event is hoping to continue its attempts at proving that denomination does not mean isolation, breaking misconceptions and fostering collaboration for stronger Christian unity.
