Last Saturday, 16/11/2024, the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Quebec hosted a memorable pastoral ordination ceremony filled with profound spirituality, devotion, and unity. Four pastors were publicly ordained to serve the Lord: Claude Trépanier, David Cevallos, Sylvain Duval, and Luders Julsain. This significant event brought together leaders of the Quebec Conference as well as those from the Canadian Union of Seventh-day Adventist Churches, including Paul Llewellyn (President) and Paul Musafili (Treasurer).
The keynote speaker, Alexander Bryant, President of the North American Division (NAD), delivered an inspiring message on the essence of pastoral ministry. He emphasized the importance of being empowered by an inner strength, likening the Holy Spirit to a high-performing engine hidden within a modest exterior. This metaphor underscored that a pastor’s true effectiveness lies in their spiritual connection with God, rather than outward appearances or natural abilities.
One of the most moving moments of the ceremony was the prayer of ordination. Fellow pastors joined the newly ordained pastors on stage and, in a symbolic gesture of unity and support, placed their hands on them while praying for God to grant them strength and wisdom in their ministry. This solemn act embodied the fraternal and spiritual support essential to their calling.
Following this powerful moment, the new pastors were officially welcomed into the Pastoral Association by Hérold Norelus, Director of the Pastoral Association and Ngoy Kyala, President of the Quebec Conference,. Their warm welcome symbolized the integration of these dedicated servants of God into a supportive and collaborative ministerial community.
Another highlight of the event was the formal induction of the pastors’ wives into the Shepherdess International Association. Led by Myriam Bouzy, the Shepherdess leader for the Quebec Conference, the wives were warmly encouraged to actively support pastoral ministry and serve the community alongside their husbands.
The ceremony was also an opportunity to inspire and foster pastoral vocations among the congregation. The message resonated as a call to those feeling led to respond to God’s invitation to ministry.
Cornel Serban, Director of Communication Department – SDA Quebec Conference
