By Pacific Christian Leadership Conference
On September 9, 2024, the Pacific Christian Leadership Conference (PCLC) held its 3rd Asia Pacific Clergy Nation-Building Seminar, inspired by John 14:3, with the theme “God’s Dream: The Salvation of Marriage—The Lord Returns.” The seminar, conducted virtually, began at 2:00 PM Manila Time and brought together clergy and leaders from various denominations.
The fellowship gathered 771 participants overall, coming from 14 nations across the Asia Pacific region, including Japan and Germany. Out of this number, 148 joined via Zoom, while 623 attended through Facebook. Forty-three individuals also joined different group watch parties in different nations.
The seminar drew attention to John 14:3, where Jesus promises to return for His people, thus grounding the event in anticipating Christ’s return and the hope of salvation through Him.
The seminar began with a warm greeting from Archbishop Elias T. Soria, the National Coordinator of PCLC in the Philippines, setting a reverent tone for the day’s proceedings. This was followed by a spirit-filled opening praise titled “Yes Lord”, performed by the Solomon Island Youth Singers, bringing the audience together in worship.
Rev. Fr. Roberto V. San Diego from St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Mandaluyong City, Philippines, led the participants in a solemn opening prayer, asking for divine guidance and blessing for the event. His prayer was followed by welcome remarks from Rev. Masaichi Hori, Chairman of PCLC, who expressed gratitude to all attendees and encouraged them to engage deeply with the themes of the seminar. Speaking from Kazakhstan, he mentioned the importance of bringing the gospel of the new era as well to Central Asia and other parts of the world.
A video presentation prepared by the World Clergy Leadership Conference (WCLC) was shown, providing a visual representation of the work and vision of WCLC as it builds alliance with Christian clergy worldwide to bring nations together and establish one family under God.
Dr. Robert Kittel, Co-Chair of the PCLC Executive Committee, delivered an insightful lecture entitled “Our Lord Returns” which was the 4th of the lecture series of the God’s Dream Seminar. To refresh everyone’s memory, he first gave a quick recap on the 3 lectures he gave previously on the topics “God’s Heart and Nature”, “The Two Tragedies & God Grieved” and “The Heart of Jesus”.
In his lecture, Dr. Kittel gave answers to the question on why Jesus must return. He also provided explication on the biblical paradigms surrounding his return and elucidated the meaning of coming on the clouds as well as the prophecies in the book of Revelations. He stressed that Jesus’ mission on the cross was victorious. Nevertheless, he has to return in order to reveal more truth to humankind as well as to plant God’s lineage on earth, solve the original sin and conduct the marriage of the lamb and build God’s kingdom on earth.
Dr. Kittel explained how Jesus would come again in the like manner that Elijah came back and cooperated spiritually with John the Baptist. The same phenomena will take place with another man born on earth with the same mission will accomplish the mission of Jesus. He carefully proclaimed that Father Moon was anointed by Jesus with his mission and has worked throughout his life to realize God’s will. Despite tremendous trials and tribulations, Father Moon together with his wife has dedicated his life to the accomplishment of the mission of Christ to introduce Godism to the world and to fight communism and the breakdown of human family.
Following the lecture, Ms. New New, a Myanmar choir singer, beautifully performed the offering song, “As the Deer”, touching the hearts of the participants with its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics. Her performance added a meaningful and worshipful moment to the event.
Rev. Jeffrey Fyers from FFWPU New Zealand, then provided reflections on Dr. Kittel’s message. Abp Soria facilitated the Q&A session, allowing the attendees to engage more deeply with the theological themes and their practical applications in ministry and daily life.
The seminar closed with a prayer from Bishop Dr. Suraphol Boonpratham, President of the Evangelical Alliance Association in Thailand. His prayer encapsulated the themes of the day and petitioned for strength and wisdom for all clergy present as they continued their work in their respective ministries.
The event concluded with announcements and a group photo to commemorate the occasion, marking the successful gathering of Christian leaders dedicated to nation-building through the principles of faith and strong family values.