Interfaith Ministry (IM) practitioners gathered for a 10-day certification seminar from April 6-16, 2026, at the SWPUC Compound, aimed at strengthening friendship and understanding between Adventists and Muslim brethren.

The event brought together IM practitioners, directors from various missions and conferences, and Muslim friends, including several Imams and Ustadz from diverse cultural backgrounds such as Maranao and Tausug. Also in attendance were Dr. Abner Dizon, the SSD Interfaith Coordinator, and Pr. Elvin Salarda, the SWPUC AM Director, both of whom provided guidance and support for the training.

The program began with a morning reflection, followed by a warm welcome from SWPUC President, Pr. Jerry Patalinghug, who set the tone for a meaningful and respectful learning experience.

Throughout the seminar, participants engaged in open discussions about their diverse cultures and beliefs. Both Adventist and Muslim attendees shared personal experiences that helped everyone better understand and appreciate their differences. More importantly, the seminar emphasized the common ground between the Qur'an and the Bible, both of which teach respect, love, and brotherhood.

Part of the training also included learning basic Arabic terms, helping Adventist participants connect more meaningfully with their Muslim friends.

The certification ended with a day dedicated to planning and strategy. Participants worked together to design approaches suited to their own culture and context, exploring ways to encourage more Seventh-day Adventist members to participate in this bridge-building movement. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude as many shared testimonies of how barriers and stereotypes were broken during the seminar. Each participant received a certificate at the end, both as an expression of appreciation and as a reminder of their commitment to building meaningful relationships between Muslims and Adventists.

The main goal of the certification was clear—to build genuine friendship. It emphasized that strong relationships are the first step in breaking stereotypes and opening doors for deeper conversations. Participants were also equipped with practical ways to approach, relate to, and communicate with Muslim brethren.

Indeed, the IM Certification was not just a training, but a reminder that building bridges starts with understanding, respect, and a sincere heart to serve.

Clendelyn Jane Bala-Perez
ZPM