ACF Leaders LIT Up to Lead
ACF Ontario chapter executive team leaders pose for a group picture.
From September 12-14, 2025, the serene shores of Big Clear Lake at InterVarsity Circle Square Ranch buzzed with faith, laughter, and purpose as ACF Ontario hosted its first-ever Fall Leaders-In-Training (LIT) Weekend. This exclusive retreat brought together elected student executives from Adventist Christian Fellowship (ACF) chapters across Ontario’s public campuses for a #LIT experience of leadership training, fellowship, and spiritual growth. Guided by Proverbs 11:25, “…whoever refreshes others will be refreshed,” the weekend empowered leaders to ignite their campus ministries and change the world.
Pastor Hong wearing the retreat t-shirt.
The LIT Weekend was a jam-packed adventure tailored for chapter growth. Attendees snagged limited-edition ACF merch, cutting-edge chapter resources, and tools to supercharge their leadership. Role-specific training sessions equipped Presidents, Comms VPs, Compassion VPs, Chaplains, and Secretary-Treasurers with practical skills to lead effectively. Campus ministry workshops, one-on-one alumni mentorship, and peer-to-peer networking fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas. A highlight was the team capstone project, where leaders collaborated to craft bold visions for their chapters using innovative planning tools developed by the ACF Ontario Student Association Leadership Team. A walk-in prayer station and uplifting praise and worship kept the focus on Jesus, grounding every activity in faith.
Sabbath morning, Ontario Conference President Pastor Jakov Bibulovic shared greetings, emphasizing how ACF leaders are pivotal to the “Connecting Like Jesus” strategic plan. Alumni OB Rey, a Mustard Seed ACF founder, shared a powerful testimony of his journey from skeptic to devoted believer. He recounted how ACF’s community transformed his life, mending his relationship with his dad and anchoring his service to God. OB’s reflection on the parable of the pearl of great price challenged leaders to let Jesus’ sacrificial love shape their character and campus impact. On Sunday, AB Aguinaldo’s devotion hit home, sharing his shift from a depressed, suicidal, non-Christian student to a baptized, hope-filled Christian. The genuine, Christ-like love of ACF members sparked his curiosity, leading to Bible studies and a life-changing commitment to Jesus.
Tahim in the water with Pastor Hong, praying moments before his baptism.
Beyond training, the retreat was a blast! Leaders bonded through team-building games, late-night campfires, and Sabbath afternoon adventures like canoeing, horseback riding, rock climbing, and nature walks. Impromptu Bible studies deepened their sense of God’s calling. The weekend’s emotional peak came when Tahim Tannis, co-president of ACF York, was baptized in Big Clear Lake. Since attending an ACF Fall Retreat in 2023, Tahim’s journey—fueled by Bible studies, personal testimonies, church involvement, and two ACF Winter Retreats—culminated in this public declaration of faith. For Tahim, no place felt more fitting than the retreat where his spiritual journey began.
Leaders left refreshed, equipped, and fired up by the Holy Spirit to refresh their campuses. With new skills, tools, and a renewed passion for ministry, they’re ready to reach their peers and spark change. The LIT Weekend was a faith-filled launchpad, blending powerful preaching, heartfelt worship, and dynamic fellowship.