We must surrender to the Holy Spirit

You can help equip graduates like Perlyn Mae Cinto to faithfully serve a growing church.

I entered the seminary, not of my own desire, but because of my father’s unfulfilled dream to be a priest.

My parents always took me to church. My father was a lay minister. I was active in the youth group. I became a lay reader and learned to play the guitar so I could join the music team. My week wasn’t complete without going to church.

Lean not on your own understanding

At St Andrew’s Theological Seminary in Manila, I encountered a lot of difficulties. I studied in my second language with people from diverse social and cultural backgrounds. Seminary life is intense and I was often sick. There were times when I felt like giving up. I stumbled and fell. I made wrong decisions. Yet, because there were people who believed in me, helping me stand firm in crises and guiding me, I continued my journey.

Courses in pastoral care and preaching provided me with a framework and practical tools. I learned how to resolve conflicts and counsel people through crisis. I learned how to prepare and structure a sermon that is both faithful to Scripture and engaging for a modern audience. I learned the importance of self-care to avoid burnout.

During my years at St Andrew’s, I was sent to serve in different churches. I enjoyed every part of my field experience. This made me wonder. Might this really be God’s calling for me after all?

Trust in the Lord with all your heart

I was surprised to complete my studies and hesitant to take the final exams and seek ordination. How was I supposed to face lots of people and preach to them and lead them? However, priests in our church saw my potential. With their persistent prayers and encouragement, I decided to push through, and give it a try.

He will make your paths straight

I expect that serving Jesus and his people will be challenging. Living far away from home and spending less time with my family will be a sacrifice. How will I remain calm while navigating relationships and conflict in the church? How will I stay humble and teachable under criticism?

During my training, books moulded me and deepened my understanding of my vocation. While I may have finished my academic journey, I still need books. Books will be my primary means of lifelong learning and intellectual refreshment. They are voices outside my own immediate context and time. They will be mentors on my shelf, opening my eyes with ideas I haven’t considered. This will be vital for maintaining a posture of humility.

Please pray that the Holy Spirit, will guide, equip and empower me to face every challenge with faithfulness, wisdom and endurance.

Perlyn Mae Cinto graduated from St Andrew’s Theological Seminary with a bachelor of theology degree.