Antipolo City, Philippines: From 18–21 May 2026, over 122 delegates from various fields across the Region gathered for the Rising Together: Nazarene Women in Leadership Conference. The event was designed to equip and empower emerging women leaders across Asia-Pacific, alongside “sages”—experienced women and men who serve as mentors, listeners, and encouragers, creating space for growth and leadership development. The conference moved through four themes: Rising Together through His Spirit, through Reconciliation, through Unity, and through Our Witness.
The opening night was led by Dr. Lynne Bollinger, who shared “Onward and Upward: Living Toward a Vision” from Colossians 3:12–14, reminding participants that they are chosen, holy, and dearly loved, and called to live and lead differently.
On the second day, the morning plenary was led by Dr. Wonkeun Oh, who spoke on “Rising Together Through Reconciliation,” drawing on Ephesians 2:14–16. He encouraged delegates to move beyond slogans and embrace the courage to speak honestly, the humility to listen deeply, and the wisdom to seek God’s guidance together. He emphasized that empowering women in leadership is not about replacement, but partnership, where men and women are co-laborers called to serve and strengthen one another. During the evening plenary, Dr. Samantha Chambo reminded participants that rising together begins with reconciliation with God and with one another, crossing dividing lines, mentoring the next generation, and responding with urgency. She challenged delegates to intentionally invest in young people through love, mentorship, and genuine care.
On the third day of the conference, Bro. Mupe Kaupa shared during the morning plenary on Arise through Unity in Partnership with Christ from John 15:5b. He reminded participants that Jesus came for the redemption of humanity—bringing transformation, salvation, and freedom from the power of sin and bondage for all people. During the night plenary, Rev. Josefin Ano-os spoke on Rising Together in Unity from Ephesians 4:1–16, challenging delegates to pursue unity with intentional effort. She encouraged believers not to be critics on the sidelines but to be builders who carry vision, strengthen others, and work together for God’s mission. She reminded everyone that jealousy, pride, competition, and self-centeredness divide the church, but “Pride divides. Purpose unites.” Rising together means choosing peace, building trust, celebrating others, and serving together as one body in Christ.
Beyond the inspiring plenary sessions, delegates also engaged in meaningful, intimate conversations between the sages and the younger generation. Each day included dedicated time for mentoring and deeper discussions about personal life, ministry, struggles, and victories. In the afternoons, fields gathered for fellowship and prayer, while inter-field prayer sessions enabled participants from different fields to partner, share prayer requests, and encourage one another in unity.
On the final day of the conference, Rev. Dr. Kafoa Muaror and Rev. Aggie Muaror jointly led the closing service, sharing a message titled “Rising Together to Witness” from “Restoration at the Well” based on John 4:21–30, 39–42. Drawing from their personal journeys of faith and ministry, they reflected on how God called them to serve together side by side. They emphasized that following Christ requires leaving the past behind, seeking a genuine encounter with Jesus, and receiving the Holy Spirit’s empowerment to boldly witness to others.
Participants from across the Asia-Pacific Region shared how the conference encouraged, challenged, and inspired them to rise together in leadership, unity, and Christlike witness. Through worship, meaningful conversations, and powerful messages, delegates were reminded of the importance of walking alongside one another with grace, humility, and purpose.
“Being reminded we are all equal – both men & women are used and blessed equally. The men in our joinery are there also to help and support us women along the way. We have such powerful and anointed leaders.” – Elaine Tasi, New Zealand
“Overall, this event provided a much-needed space to seriously consider these dynamics. Thank you to everyone involved for your incredible dedication and for serving us with such grace.” – Hangyeol Jang, South Korea
“Throughout the conference, we heard messages centered on ‘rising together’ through reconciliation, unity, and our witness. Those themes carried through the worship, teaching, and conversations, and I was reminded again of how important it is to listen well to one another, walk together with grace, and reflect Christ in the way we lead and serve.” – Rev. Merilyn Wutsik, Papua New Guinea
“Leadership in the Kingdom is really not about titles, stages, recognition, or being “known.” It’s about surrender. It’s about obedience even when nobody sees. It’s about staying faithful in every season and allowing God to continuously refine your heart. As I return back to work, ministry, leadership, motherhood, marriage, work, responsibilities, and everyday life, I carry home a fresh hunger for God’s presence again.” – Jema Florendo, Philippines
The Rising Together Conference became more than just a gathering—it was a powerful reminder that God is raising up leaders who will serve in unity, humility, and partnership for His mission. As delegates return to their respective fields, they carry with them renewed vision, deeper relationships, and a shared commitment to empower the next generation, build bridges of reconciliation, and boldly witness for Christ together.