Asian Seminary for Christian Ministries Dedicates Facility
Philippines—The Asian Seminary for Christian Ministries (ASCM) recently conducted a dedication ceremony of a new educational and administrative facility, celebrating 50 years of education ministry and training in the Philippines.
Founded in 1973, ASCM’s four-story, 60,000 square foot structure replaces the former facility, previously located in downtown Manila. Upon completion of the sale of the Manila location, which was a one-time YWEA project, a new site was found and a building erected which offers more space and less traffic congestion.
The February 23 dedication was attended by several Church of God officials, including Assistant General Overseer Dr. David Ramirez, Director of World Missions M. Thomas Propes, Assistant Director of World Missions John D. Childers, and Field Director for the Asia/Pacific Region Andrew Binda.
“The building is truly beautiful and you have to take a tour to fully appreciate its beauty and functionality,” Binda stated on a Facebook post following the event. “It features spacious hallways, classrooms, offices for the faculty and staff, library, a beautiful multipurpose auditorium, and so much more.”
Leaders cut the ribbon at the ASCM dedication. L-R: John Childers, Debbie Childers, LaQuita Propes, M. Thomas Propes, Marilen Morris, Marc Morris, David Ramirez, Fernanda Ramirez (click photo to enlarge)
The dedication service featured an Act of Dedication led by Propes, remarks from Childers, and a keynote address by Ramirez, who also serves as Executive Director for the Division of Education for the Church of God.
“We need to train our next generation to another level,” Ramirez stated in his address, “so they can respond to the demands of today’s society. Because Church of God World Missions has been so intentional in discipling and training the nations and raising a new generation of leaders, we would not be able to be in the moment that we are today.”
Dr. Marc Morris, regional superintendent for the Austral Asia region of the Church of God, leads the ASCM as president and supervised the transition. Morris addressed the event saying, “Personally, I believe this property was preserved and prepared for such a time as this…This new location, and new facility are only indications that this is a new beginning for brighter days ahead. And to that, I believe all of us can say, ‘to God be the glory for great things He has done.’” Morris noted others who were instrumental and supportive of the years-long project, including former director of Church of God World Missions David Griffis.
Also in attendance were local civic leaders and representatives from other ministry organizations, and the Church of God in the Philippines including National Overseer
Dr. Anthony Velasco.
“You did it,” stated Childers, “To achieve anything requires faith and a belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination…all things are possible to those who believe and trust in the Lord.”
“Brothers and sisters, this is a day of rejoicing,” Propes said in his remarks. “All glory be to you, Oh, Lord, now and forever, Amen!”
