By Alleyhandra Celio Anak Anis, Media Volunteer Sarawak Mission
Sunday, 28 June 2026
With grateful hearts, members, church leaders, and guests gathered on 27 June 2026 at Ayer Manis School Hall for the Spiritual Stewardship, PARL & PGTS Seminar themed “Generosity as Worship.” The one-day seminar brought together church members from across the Sarawak Mission for a meaningful time of worship, learning, fellowship, and spiritual renewal. The program encouraged participants to deepen their relationship with God and strengthen their commitment to faithful Christian stewardship and mission.
The seminar began with registration and a worship session, followed by an opening prayer led by Pr. Brian Scott, Executive Secretary of Sarawak Mission. Participants were welcomed by Pr. Semilee Tajau, President of Sarawak Mission, who encouraged everyone to open their hearts to God’s leading throughout the day. The seminar featured three experienced speakers: Pr. Francis Amer, Stewardship Director of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD); Pr. Jibil Simbah, PARL & PGTS Director of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD); and Pr. Tan Ming Chen, Stewardship Director of the Malaysia Union Mission (MAUM). Their presentations were introduced by Pr. Delkenz David and Pr. Semilee Tajau.
Throughout the seminar, the speakers shared practical and biblical teachings on stewardship, religious liberty, public affairs, and God’s calling for every believer. Pr. Francis Amer reminded participants that “tithe and offerings are not only about money, but are expressions of faith, obedience, and commitment to God’s mission”. Pr. Jibil Simbah emphasized that “Stewardship, Planned Giving & Trust Services is not about fund-raising, but faith-raising, encouraging members to place God at the center of their lives and trust Him completely”. Pr. Tan Ming Chen also shared an important reminder that, “God did not give talents for storage, but for service”. He encouraged everyone to use the gifts and abilities God has given them to serve others and advance His work. Each presentation was followed by question-and-answer sessions, allowing participants to gain a deeper understanding of the topics discussed.
The seminar was further enriched by inspiring testimonies that demonstrated God’s faithfulness in everyday life. Elder Albert Maon shared how he once returned tithe only occasionally, but after understanding the biblical principles of stewardship, he chose to return tithe faithfully and experienced God’s abundant blessings. He also shared that he now teaches his children to faithfully return to God what belongs to Him, drawing encouragement from the book of Proverbs. Elder Jobi Asong testified about choosing to honour the Sabbath even though it resulted in a deduction from his salary. He shared that he always prays before making important decisions and encouraged everyone to continue serving God faithfully regardless of their age. Elder Harold Dawat also testified about God’s abundant blessings in his life, reminding everyone, “Whenever God blesses us with more, we give more, too.” These personal testimonies beautifully reflected the seminar’s theme, showing that faithful stewardship is built on trust, obedience, and a willing heart to honour God in every aspect of life.
The afternoon session continued with additional presentations by the invited speakers, followed by another interactive question-and-answer session. The seminar concluded with a Commitment Service led by Pr. Francis Amer, inviting participants to renew their dedication to God and His mission. The program ended with a closing song, a closing prayer led by Pr. Jibil Simbah, and a time of fellowship over refreshments.
In conclusion, the Spiritual Stewardship, PARL & PGTS Seminar was a meaningful and spiritually enriching gathering that strengthened the faith and commitment of everyone in attendance. The messages and testimonies shared throughout the day reminded participants that generosity is an act of worship, faithful stewardship is a response of obedience, and every talent entrusted by God is meant to be used in His service. The seminar also reaffirmed that stewardship is not about raising funds, but about raising faith and leading God’s people to trust Him more fully. Sarawak Mission expresses its sincere appreciation to all the speakers, organizers, volunteers, and participants who contributed to the success of this seminar. It is our prayer that the lessons learned will continue to inspire every member to live faithfully, serve wholeheartedly, and become faithful stewards of God’s blessings as they carry forward His mission.
Stewardship, and PARL & PGTS Department
