Aldesgate Mission Conference: Bagnos iti Panagdaliasat

Reflections from the Opening Worship of the Aldersgate Mission Conference
January 7, 2026 | 4:00 PM | Hotel Supreme

A Video from Argie Tuliao Alonzo

The opening worship of the Aldersgate Mission Conference, Bagnos iti Panagdaliasat (“Guide in Journeying”), held at Hotel Supreme in Baguio City, set a deeply reflective and grounding tone for the days ahead. Preached by Bp. Ruby-nell Estrella, the message invited delegates to pause, remember, and re-center their faith journey through the lens of Gospel of Luke 24:13–35—the story of the road to Emmaus.

At her sermon, there were three simple yet heart -touching truths that speak directly to Clergies, Deaconesses, and Church Leaders, walking through seasons of uncertainty, dismay, burnouts of calling, and even those that are journeying in renewal.

Christ Jesus Walks with Us.

Drawing from the Emmaus narrative, Bishop Estrella reminded the delegates that Christ does not wait for us at the destination—He walks with us on the road. The two disciples were grieving, confused, and disoriented after the crucifixion. Yet, in their despair, Jesus quietly joined them.

In the same way, our mission journeys—filled with fatigue, doubt, and unanswered questions—are never walked alone. Christ’s presence is not dependent on our awareness of Him. Even when our eyes are clouded by fear or disappointment, He remains beside us, faithfully journeying through every valley and uphill climb.

Christ Jesus Listens to Us.

One of the most striking moments in the passage is Jesus asking, “What are you discussing as you walk along?” Though He already knew their pain, He chose to listen.

Bishop Estrella emphasized that Christ is a listening Savior. He invites us to pour out our grief, frustrations, and even misunderstandings. In mission work and ministry, we are often quick to speak, teach, and act—but rarely do we stop to be heard.

This reminder calls us back to prayer not as a monologue, but a conversation. Christ listens patiently, compassionately, and without judgment—even when our faith feels weak or incomplete.

Christ Jesus Is Speaking to Us.

As the walk continued, Jesus explained the Scriptures, reframing the disciples’ understanding of suffering, death, and redemption. Their hearts burned—not because their circumstances changed, but because truth was spoken into their confusion.

Bishop Estrella challenged the congregation to ask: Are we truly listening when Christ speaks? Through Scripture, community, worship, and the quiet nudges of the Spirit, Christ continues to reveal meaning in the journey.
Often, clarity comes not immediately, but along the road, as obedience and reflection open our hearts to deeper understanding.

Bagnos iti Panagdaliasat is more than a theme—it is a spiritual posture. To be “washed in the journey” means allowing Christ’s presence, patience, and Word to cleanse us as we walk, listen, and respond.

The opening worship reminded everyone gathered that mission is not merely about reaching places or completing tasks. It is about recognizing Christ already walking with us, listening to our hearts, and faithfully speaking truth into our lives—until, like the disciples, we finally recognize Him in the breaking of the bread.

As the Aldersgate Mission Conference began, hearts were realigned, steps were steadied, and journeys were renewed—washed by grace, and guided by Christ.