By Jesha Sandig, AB Mass Communications Intern

CEW Day 1 Speaker Rev. Carla Romarate- Knipel.

“We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.” 2 Corinthians 4: 8-10. This is one of the Scripture texts of this semester’s Christ Emphasis Week with the theme “Endure” — a word that is perfect for what the world needs to do in its current situation; endure for the Lord is always with us. In troubling times, God’s promises echo through. Let us hold on because our God is faithful and has a plan for each and every one. The other Scripture text is found in Psalm 119:90 which says “Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.”

Day 1 of the College CEW, Pastor Ruth G. Lunasco, Christian Education Director of the University Church introduced the speaker Rev. Dr. Carla A. Romarate-Knipel who is serving Central Baptist Church in Woodbury, New Jersey, USA. Rev. Romarate-Knipel discussed the theme “Endure” by referencing two Ilonggo words “Agwanta” and “Nagpadayon.” It was ended by a prayer headed by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church.

The speaker for Day 2 of the College CEW was Rev. Manuel De La Fuente from Calvary Baptist Church, Clifford, New Jersey, USA. He was introduced by Rev. Roger T. Quimpo, Associate Pastor for Outreach, University Church. The convocation was ended by a prayer by Rev. Sian. There was also a musical performance of the theme song “Famous” by Tauren Wells and Jenn Johnson.

Per the tradition of the last day of CEW, it was ended by a “Praise Jam.” The students gathered together virtually to sing songs of praise and worship for God.