OPIF, Dunes – After 17 months of extensive classroom instructions and the prescribed on-the-job training rotations, 52 regular OBS students were conferred a Diploma in Theological Studies while 26 Pastors and Senior Ministers of OPIF, Inc. were conferred Honorary Diploma in Theological Studies and Pastoral Administration, during the 2nd OPIF Bible School Commencement Exercise held last November 15, 2019.
This happened despite a 47.5% drop from the initial number of enrollees this school year which was seen as a much lower percentage compared to the ATMM batch, which recorded more than 50% student dropped-outs.
Close to 200 guests witnessed the graduation ceremonies which was officiated by Ptr. Rolando Galang, resident Pastor of OPIF Bahrain.
In his keynote address, Ptr. Galang emphasized on the importance of continuing leadership which do not end only upon graduation but of a service fulfilled only when a personal commitment to serve is also attained to its highest calling.
“I am personally proud yet humbled by the fact that this is so far the biggest graduation ever held by OPIF in terms of the number of graduates, venue and logistics. I never thought it would turn out the way it did knowing we have shortage of school staff to ever think of such a huge platform”, Ptr. Michael Sanchez, the current Board of Director for Education and OBS Director said in an interview.
Special recognition awards were given to students who made top rankings in both academics and extra-curricular activities such as the Evangelists’ Choice Award, Educators’ Choice, Preachers’ Choice, Complete Attendance award, OBS Leadership, Outstanding OJT group, Outstanding Student OJT and the highly coveted the OPIF Student Ambassador Award.
Diplomas and medals were handed to the graduates by Ptr. Emiliano Neric, BOD Chairman, Ptr. Allyn Gagarin, Vice Chairman and Overseer and Ptr. Rolando Galang, Resident Pastor of OPIF Bahrain who all graced the occasion.
“OBS will definitely contribute greatly to my future. As a student, it has molded me and allowed me to further deepen my faith in God. It also helped me develop self-confidence and conquered my fears because I know God is with me.”, shared Bro. Thirdy Bueno, one of the OBS graduates, in an interview.
Bro. Alfred Pamaqued echoed the same thoughts saying, “As a graduate of OBS, I can say that this was a God given blessing. It is an opportunity for those who desire to be equipped with God’s word.”
With 52 newly licensed ministers and 26 Honorarees, there is high hopes that OPIF Inc. will now be ready to take on extensive roles and graduates will be ready to assume future ministerial roles in both local and national leadership.
