The Southern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (SLPUM) gathered 34 Administrative Assistants from its mission fields for a seminar designed to strengthen both professional competence and spiritual commitment to service. With the theme “Empowering Administrative Professionals for Mission-Driven Excellence,” the event highlighted the indispensable role of office professionals in supporting the Church’s mission with integrity, skill, and heart.

The resource speakers were Dr. Lualhati Sausa, Dean of the College of Business at the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP), and Mr. Ivan Perdido, Marketing Officer of AUP.

Strengthening the Skills

The first session explored the vital yet often unseen responsibilities of office staff in sustaining the mission’s daily operations. Administrative assistants were recognized not merely as office workers but as mission partners—individuals who support church departments and leaders with diligence and faithfulness.

“In SLPUM, administrative office professionals are mission partners,” Dr. Sausa affirmed. “Their competence and Christlike service enable the mission to advance effectively.”

The second session focused on cultivating balance, resilience, and purpose in everyday work. Stress management was presented as a form of stewardship—caring for one’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Participants were reminded to “work smarter, not harder” by organizing their workspace, prioritizing tasks, and addressing procrastination with discipline and grace. Dr. Sausa added a practical reminder:

“Housekeeping first before make-up,” she said, emphasizing that a tidy and orderly workspace not only enhances performance but also uplifts one’s mood and mindset.

The seminar also underscored teamwork and the power of partnership. Collaboration was described as more than cooperation—it is growing together, achieving more, and elevating the entire mission team. Participants explored five key dimensions of a strong boss-secretary partnership: communication, trust and confidentiality, collaboration, organization, and recognition.

Communication was likewise highlighted as the lifeline of every organization. Participants were reminded that how we communicate reflects who we are—our professionalism, courtesy, and Christian character. They explored verbal, nonverbal, and written communication, guided by the Six Cs of Effective Written Communication: Complete, Clear, Correct, Concise, Courteous, and Considerate.

Complementing this was the Business Writing and Small Etiquette Workshop, which provided practical lessons on writing professional correspondence, memos, and reports that are both accurate and respectful. Simple etiquette principles were also shared, showing that grace and good manners go hand in hand with effective communication in creating a Christlike workplace.

Inspiring the Heart

The two-day event opened with a devotional message from Pastor Danilo Fiecas, SLPUM Executive Secretary, who reminded participants that in every interaction, “their words should be seasoned with grace—building others up and keeping the team united.”

In another devotional, Pastor Jose P. Orbe, Jr., SLPUM Communication Director, shared:

“AI is a tool; an AA is a trustee. Tools can sort, serve, and suggest—but only a trusted person can safeguard, steward, and shepherd the work toward outcomes that honor Christ and care for people.”

The seminar concluded with a message of appreciation from Josue Fofue, Jr., SLPUM Treasurer, who affirmed the vital contribution of Administrative Assistants to the church’s mission.

“The church needs not only strong preachers,” he said, “but also faithful office professionals.”

Reflections from Participants

Participants expressed heartfelt appreciation for the seminar’s relevance and inspiration.

“I was reminded that this job is just as essential as any other in our institution,” reflected Althea Cordial from Mindoro. “Though we often serve behind the scenes, we play a big role in advancing God’s work. Even in the smallest details, we are called to be faithful stewards.”

Gwendale De Asis of the South-Central Luzon Conference added, “I’m grateful for the discussion on business writing and document systems. I hope new digital templates can be introduced to make our reports more organized.”

Nemcy Gatdula of Palawan Mission beautifully summed it up: “True excellence is not measured solely by results—it is rooted in passion for service and people. Empowered administrative professionals are not just support staff; they are partners in mission, catalysts for progress, and instruments of inspiration.”