DAVAO CITY — In a heartfelt devotional program, the Davao Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated the retirement of two dedicated gospel workers: Pastor Marlon R. Ricarte and Pastor Bonifacio I. Cruzada. The gathering honored decades of their faithful ministry devoted to evangelism, pastoral care, and nurturing congregations across the mission territory.

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Church leaders, colleagues, family, and friends reflected on the enduring impact of both pastors, whose lifelong commitment helped strengthen churches and advance the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in this region.

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Guest speaker Pastor Danielo Palomares, president of the South Philippine Union Mission, delivered a message centered on the theme, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). Noting that he entered ministry four years earlier than the honorees, he added humorously, “If they are now retiring, I wonder what that says about me,” drawing warm laughter from the audience.

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Pastor Palomares framed the retirement not as an end, but as a meaningful transition—a graduation into a new season of life. Quoting Proverbs 16:31, he affirmed that the retirees carry a crown of wisdom earned through years of service, a wisdom that inspires the next generation.

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He encouraged the honorees to embrace what he called the “three L’s” in this new chapter:
•    Live one day at a time, trusting God daily;
•    Look back and remember God’s leading from the beginning;
•    Look forward with faith and optimism, confident in His continued guidance.

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Pastor Bonifacio I. Cruzada was recognized for 29 years of ministry, including one year as a literature evangelist. He was joined by his wife, Ruth Canto Cruzada, and their children—Rb Angel Cruzada, who attended the program, Bonrujhon, and Rujon Eve.

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Pastor Marlon R. Ricarte was honored for 32 years of service, which also included time as a literature evangelist. He was accompanied by his wife, Cherry Rosales Ricarte, and their children—Bea Shekinah and Diadem (both present), Marchee, and Danreve.

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The program included tokens of gratitude, prayers of thanksgiving, and personal testimonies highlighting the spiritual influence of both pastors in ministry and family life.

Davao Mission leaders expressed profound gratitude for the faithful service of Pastors Ricarte and Cruzada and offered prayers for God’s continued presence, peace, and joy in their retirement. The mission confidently affirms that the seeds sown through their ministries will continue to bear fruit for God’s kingdom.