On 15 January 2025, Rev. Rizalina Dialing was appointed District Superintendent for Mindanao West District. This marks a significant milestone in church leadership, inspiring women to rise and lead with faith and courage. Her leadership paves the way for more women to break barriers and fulfill their God-given calling.
Rev. Dialing was raised in a Christian family with strong faith foundations. She began her ministry by leading Sunday School for children in her home church in Iloilo. Her early pastoral journey took her to Panay, where she served as a church pastor. Actively seeking leadership opportunities, she attended numerous conferences and trainings that contributed significantly to her development and readiness for the role of District Superintendent.
At the assembly, Rev. Dialing expressed her sense of peace, trusting that her life was in God’s hands and that His plan was unfolding as intended. She described the appointment as both humbling and challenging but remained steadfast in her belief that the Lord has great plans for her and the Mindanao West District. She views this opportunity as a chance to expand ministry efforts within the district and strengthen her service to the local church and the broader community. “This opportunity empowers me to serve not only my local church but the entire district,” Rev. Dialing said. “It is a testament to how our church recognizes and values women’s leadership gifts.” She emphasized that her leadership will be guided by faith and the Holy Spirit, acknowledging that she is a mere instrument in fulfilling God’s will.
Rev. Dialing envisions a more connected district, as geographical distances have challenged the church’s fellowship and unity. She also plans to prioritize pastoral education, believing equipping pastors with knowledge and resources is crucial to strengthening God’s Kingdom in Mindanao. Furthermore, she focuses on discipleship across all age groups, children, youth, and adults, ensuring a strong foundation for the next generation to continue the Lord’s ministry.
“This past year, God has opened multiple doors of partnership, enabling us to reach out to the ‘last, the least, and the lost,’” she stated. “This journey is not mine alone but belongs to the entire district as we grow together in God’s calling.”
She concluded with a message of faith, citing Jeremiah 29:11. She acknowledged that while the verse is well known, it perfectly encapsulates her journey as a woman pastor. Even in life’s lowest moments, she reminded everyone to remain obedient to the Lord and trust Him to lead the way. “The Lord is faithful,” she affirmed. “Even in our most difficult times, He is always there to comfort and guide us.”
Rev. Dialing’s appointment as the first woman District Superintendent in the Philippines-Micronesia Field is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the evolving role of women in church leadership. Her story inspires future generations of women called to ministry, proving that with faith and dedication, barriers can be broken, and new opportunities can emerge for the glory of God.