The Central Luzon Conference (CLC) successfully held the inauguration ceremony of its newly constructed four-storey Pastoral House on December 2, 2025. The event marked a significant milestone for the conference, symbolizing both progress and God’s continued guidance in the ministry.
Early Efforts to Provide Pastoral Housing
Long before the present four-storey structure stood at the heart of the CLC compound, early Adventist administrators recognized the need to provide safe and decent housing for directors and their families, initially made of wood. The first official effort began in 1982, when the CLC constructed the original pastoral house, designed to shelter four pastoral families. This early building served as a beacon of support for workers assigned to difficult and demanding districts within the CLM (Central Luzon Mission) territory.
Even before this, the CLC compound served multiple functions. Notably, in 1947, under the leadership of Pastor Benvenido Tejano, then Health Director, the Conference established its Medical Clinic, marking another milestone in providing services for both workers and members alike.
Renovation and Growing Needs Through the Years
As the work expanded, the needs of pastoral families also grew. In 1990, the pastoral house underwent a major renovation, expanding its capacity to nine families. However, over the span of 35 years, the building became inadequate for tenants and unsightly for visitors. Despite improvements, living conditions remained very challenging, as reflected in the testimonies of former residents. Pastor Nicolas Francisco recalled, “Maraming daga, maraming anay, mainit sa bahay at luma na,” while Ma’am Hazel Viernes shared, “Maulan sa loob at ang pumapatak ay hindi tubig kundi mga bubuwit.”
These experiences highlighted the urgent need for a new, dignified, and safe living facility for workers who tirelessly serve the field.
The Birth of a New CLC Four-Storey Pastoral House Vision
On February 12, 2023, during the CLC Executive Committee Meeting held at the CLC Headquarters in Malabon City, the Committee approved Action 2023-36, authorizing the construction of new pastoral houses within the CLC compound. At that time, the presidency consisted of Pastor Ephraim Parulan as President, Pastor Noel Galang as Executive Secretary, and Sir Joel Manlungat as Treasurer. Pastor Noel Galang, serving as Chairman of the Building Committee, ensured that the concerns of pastoral families and the strategic goals of the Conference were fully represented.
Construction Milestones
The formal start of the project began on April 10, 2024, when the CLC Administration signed the Four-Storey Apartelle Building Contract with Architect Ariel Austria and Associates (A2Design). On August 27, 2024, the project’s “Fire Protection System/Sprinkler System” component was awarded to Mr. Tabian, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and building standards. The completed building was formally turned over to the CLC Administration by Architect Ariel Austria on November 18, 2025. Prior to this, on November 4, 2025, the Malabon City Hall granted the Certificate of Occupancy, confirming the building’s readiness for habitation.
Inauguration Day – December 2, 2025
Pr. Daniel Malabad, president of the Northern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (NLPUM), led the ceremony and delivered the keynote message centered on Psalm 127:1: “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” He emphasized that the Pastoral House stands as a clear testimony of God’s faithfulness, reminding everyone that God supports those who faithfully labor in His vineyard.
In his message, Pr. Malabad highlighted four key points:
1. The Pastoral House is a testimony of God’s faithfulness.
He explained that the completion of the building reflects how God continues to provide for those who serve Him. Despite challenges, God has shown unwavering support to His workers, affirming that every effort done in His vineyard is never overlooked.
2. The Pastoral House is a gift for God’s workers.
Pr. Malabad stressed that no individual should claim the structure as a personal achievement or legacy. Instead, it stands as a collective blessing, built through God’s guidance and intended to serve pastors, families, and ministry workers for generations.
3. The Pastoral House is a center for mission.
He reminded future renters and residents that the facility is not merely a place of comfort. It is a hub designed to strengthen evangelism, support Bible workers, nurture pastoral families, and empower ministries. Everyone who stays here is encouraged to live with purpose and a missional mindset.
4. The Pastoral House must be filled with God’s presence.
Pr. Malabad underscored that the spiritual atmosphere of the building matters as much as its physical structure. He encouraged occupants to make it a house of prayer, where God’s peace, wisdom, and the Holy Spirit are felt by all who enter and leave its doors. He expressed hope that the place will continually reflect God’s character and become a sanctuary for those involved in His work.
Lastly, he encouraged everyone to ensure that the Pastoral House becomes a house of prayer, peace, wisdom, and the Holy Spirit, and that all who enter and leave sense a different atmosphere, knowing that the place is dedicated to God and His work.
Expressions of Gratitude
Pr. Noel Galang, president of the Central Luzon Conference, expressed heartfelt gratitude for God’s goodness and acknowledged the support of brethren who contributed to making the building project a reality. Pr. Ephraim Parulan, former president of CLC, shared about the long years of dreaming and planning that culminated in the construction of the Pastoral House, while Architect Ariel Austria, who led the project’s construction, also offered his thanks.
Significance and Conclusion
At the close of the ceremony, it was evident to all attendees that the new Pastoral House is not merely a physical structure but a symbol of unity, faith, and the church’s ongoing hope under God’s guidance. As the new home for CLC’s workers, it is expected to serve as a place of prayer, preparation, and mission support, empowering the church to continue bringing light and hope to the community. The inauguration concluded with a collective prayer of dedication, marking the beginning of the Pastoral House’s role in strengthening the mission and ministry of the Central Luzon Conference.
The history of the CLC Four-Storey Pastoral House is a story of vision, sacrifice, and God’s sustaining grace. From a small structure built for four families in 1982, through decades of challenges and prayers, to today’s modern, safe, and dignified residential facility, the building stands as a testimony that God remembers His workers. The facility now accommodates 12 families, including officers and directors, along with 10 guest house units. To God be the glory—great things He has done and continues to do in the life and mission of the Central Luzon Conference.