by Karen Santiago
Every year, our beloved JIL pastors and staff from all over the Philippines and the world come together to be a part of the celebration of God’s goodness and faithfulness to His church. Conferences, strategic planning and evaluation, submission of various reports and meetings are also part of their itinerary. But, let us come to know the fact that they also deserve a treat: a chance to relax, unwind, and mingle with their fellow pastors and workers.
I was given a chance to join these people to spend a short vacation in Boracay. I was thrilled because I will be given a chance to get to know them beyond “church hours”. And also, this is a perfect time for me to savour the Lord’s greatness through His creations. The sea, the fine white sand, the skies, the coconut and palm trees—which come together perfectly just through the command of His voice. Truly His power is way beyond measure.
First Day – Travelled. Slept. Ate.
That Wednesday morning, I went to the airport way earlier than usual. I had the fear of being left behind by the plane. I don’t want to spend extra bucks just for being late. The check in of baggages went smoothly, and I waited at the pre departure area. No stress, though I spent a few minutes looking for a vacant seat because several other pastors checked in early too. It was a pleasure to see the pastors and leaders that I came to know only through Facebook. I looked at the camera I am holding, and I’m not used to it; because I’ve been used to holding my DSLR camera during my trips, but this time I have to let it go for a point-and-shoot camera that I just borrowed from my mom. I had to send the DSLR to the service center for repair.
I’ve come to like the service of a budget airline this time because we flew and landed just in time. I was also able to sneak in some sleep to recharge a little bit, but it was not enough (but I’m still thankful anyway). After the short air travel, we took on a loooong two hour bus ride to the port (this time I slept the entire trip). Then a short shuttle ride. Then a fifteen-minute boat ride. Then an estimated five minute shuttle ride to the hotel. I was assigned to stay at the Boracay Regency Hotel, which for me is one of the best hotels in Boracay. Upon checking in, we were welcomed with a refreshing drink and warm smiles from the hotel staff, which made me smile inspite of a tiring travel. After settling our things at the room, we went to the buffet hall for our early dinner.
I may be a “threat” to the all-you-can-eat restaurants because of my strong appetite and love for food. But this time, after taking on a diet, I was not able to eat much than before. And no rice. It felt good. I had no plans of taking exercise during my stay in Bora, but my good friend Rencel tagged me along to the gym. I decided to shed off some calories through a 30-minute cardio workout. After that, I dozed off. That was my first day.
Second Day – Sea-sighting. Soul searching. The “fun side” of our pastors revealed.
I woke up a little bit late and excited. One of the things that I look forward to in a hotel is their breakfast. I hurriedly freshened up and went to Sea Breeze Café. I must admit I ate a lot . I tried almost all of the food except the rice. You know, carbs.
After eating I went back to the room to put on some sunblock lotion and change to my comfy swimming clothes. I was planning to just become an ordinary beach bummer, walking on the fine sandy shores, carrying my slippers, taking pictures, and feeling the cool breeze on my skin.
It was a gloomy day. No sun, cloudy, and drizzling. I tried swimming on the hotel pool, and I found that it was a good idea because it was only I and a few Koreans who were there. Later on Rencel joined me. I missed her.
The second night is a special one because all of the pastors and workers will come together for a special dinner, dancing and singing, and loads of fun. It was a Hawaiian/floral themed event. I just realized that I have nothing yet to wear for that night, so I hurriedly went to a nearby shop to buy one. I am not really a fan of floral clothes, but I found this one cool: 
I braided my hair and I’m all set. The dinner took place at the seaside in front of our hotel. When I saw the pastors in their attire, I was like, wow. They looked great in their get ups. It was amazing to see them in their flowing floral dresses, sarongs, beach polos and shorts. They looked more youthful and care free. I saw that they are enjoying the night with their fellow leaders.
It was a night of fun filled music, sumptuous food, laughter, and games. I just realized that they need to experience moments such as these. They need to be refreshed by means of relaxation and recreation, just like any other people. I felt encouraged when I saw the priceless smiles on their faces. And lastly, I came to realize that working for the Church is not all about sacrifices and carrying burdens. Recreational activities like these serve as an act of appreciation to the pastors and workers for their efforts for the church, and for continuing the mandate that the Lord has instilled in their hearts: to win souls and letting Christ be known to the world by His love and His word.
After that, I had a short chit chat with my friends from JIL Canada. And that was my second day.
Third Day: Swim, Surf, Sleep
I woke up early because I want to do more things than yesterday. I ate breakfast and changed to my swim clothes again. I was walking along the shore with my friends when I saw this boy on a mini surf board, making his way against the small waves that hit the shore. I was curious on how he was doing that. So I asked him I want to learn what he’s doing. He asked for 200 pesos and he’ll teach me how, and I agreed. It was an hour of stumbling, splitting, and falling on the sand for me because I failed to maintain balance while learning how to “surf”, simply because I’m afraid to fall on my head hitting the shore first. 
After that I spent the whole day swimming at the sea and at the pool alternately, with lunch and snacks as breaks. That was about six hours. I enjoyed so much that I forgot the time went by fast. My last time at the pool was memorable because I spent a few minutes sipping my fruit shake with my friends and had a rare picture taken with Bro. Eddie-all soaked in pool water. 
I was so tired that I slept from afternoon until the next day.
Fourth Day: It Ended Fast and Well
I spent the last day taking my last snapshots of the sea. It was a sunny day. I was thinking of what I can take home for my family and friends. I bought a burger from Jammers, a famous burger corner at the beach for my dad. I was thinking of buying the rest of the pasalubongs at the Kalibo airport. 
Indeed time flies fast for those who are enjoying the day. The four days and three nights spent at Boracay, for me, were unforgettable. It was not only a moment of enjoyment, pleasure and relaxation. It was also an opportunity to extend gratitude to God for the privilege to work for Him and for His ministry, all for His glory alone.
This is the church’s way of appreciation for the works of our beloved pastors who have their own share of efforts exerted for the expansion of God’s kingdom here on earth. They don’t only need this. They also need our fervent prayers and support for them to fulfill their missions as God’s messengers of His word.
My salute goes to our dear pastors. May God richly bless you and your families in ways you cannot imagine. We pray that you will not lose your focus on God and on your purpose, so that on that very day, God will say unto you, “well done, my good and faithful servant!”