Faith in Action: Involvement in Mission Work While Studying at AIIAS

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23

When we first arrived at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS) in 2019, we had no idea how profoundly our faith and purpose would be shaped. What began as an academic journey quickly became a transformative experience of service, allowing us to be active participants in God’s mission while studying.

From the very beginning, we had the privilege of joining the Student Association Mission Trip, traveling across the North and South Philippines. These weren’t just trips—they were opportunities to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Whether it was through evangelism, health education, children’s programs, or community development, we witnessed lives being touched and, in the process, felt our own faith growing deeper.

One of the most unforgettable experiences came last year when we participated in the PNG for Christ evangelism project in Papua New Guinea from April 26 to May 11, 2024. Our team was sent to the Eastern Highlands of Goroka, where my wife and I led evangelistic meetings, leadership training, health lectures, and discipleship programs. The hunger for God’s Word among the people was unlike anything we had ever seen. We watched in awe as individuals made life-changing decisions for Christ, stepping forward in faith to be baptized. In those moments, we fully understood the essence of Colossians 3:23—that every effort we make, whether in preaching, teaching, or simply serving, should be done with a heart fully surrendered to God.

Later that year, from July 14 to 28, 2024, we joined the Education Student Association of AIIAS on a mission trip to Thailand and the Myanmar border. This experience opened our eyes to the reality that mission work isn’t confined to familiar places; it extends far beyond borders. Language barriers and cultural differences presented challenges, but God’s love proved stronger.

Through education, character development, and discipleship training, we shared hope with young people eager to learn and grow in faith. Seeing the resilience and dedication of local believers, despite the hardships they faced, was both humbling and inspiring.

Beyond these mission trips, we have also had the privilege of serving as special guest speakers at the Adventist Medical Hospital in Valencia, Mindanao, and at the Lara Caring International Teachers Retreat in Boracay. Additionally, we have been honored to serve twice as guest speakers for their graduation ceremonies, sharing messages of hope, faith, and perseverance with educators and graduates alike.

Most recently, from February 28 to March 2, 2025, I had the honor of serving as the guest speaker for the Bacoor District 3 Youth Retreat Camp in the mountain of Lobo, Batangas. The retreat, themed “Faith on Fire: United in Christ, Standing Firm Together,” was a powerful reminder of spiritual unity and commitment. Among the attendees were young people who had drifted away from church, as well as seekers exploring their faith. Through team-building activities and deep reflections on God’s Word, we encouraged them to reignite a passionate, unwavering faith. The retreat wasn’t just about speaking; it was about connecting, inspiring, and helping a new generation stand firm in Christ.

As we reflect on our time at AIIAS, we see how Colossians 3:23 has become the guiding principle of our journey. Whether preaching in PNG, building special projects in Thailand, mentoring youth in Batangas, or speaking at educational and medical institutions, each act of service has been an opportunity to fulfill God’s calling. We’ve come to realize that mission work isn’t something we wait to do after graduation; it’s something we actively live out every day.

And you can do the same! No matter where you are or what stage of life you’re in, God calls each of us to serve wholeheartedly. Whether it’s through small acts of kindness, leading a Bible study, or participating in mission trips, every effort matters when done for the Lord. As we remain faithful in our calling, we can trust that God will continue to use us for His greater purpose.