The Marriage Retreat Convention 2025 for Sabah Mission was held from October 3–5, 2025, at Beringgis Beach Resort & Spa under the inspiring theme, “Anchored in Love: A Marriage Rooted in Hope.” Organized by the Sabah Mission Family Ministries Department, the retreat brought together couples from across the mission for a weekend of renewal, learning, and deeper spiritual connection.
The program consisted of seven enriching sessions and a Sabbath sermon focused on building strong, Christ-centred marriages. Dr. Irelyn Gabin, Family Ministries Director of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), presented two key sessions — “5 Habits of a Happy Marriage” and the Sabbath sermon, “Marriage: A Light that Shines.”
Other presenters included Rozelene Gulon, MAUM Family Ministries Director, who spoke on “Managing Conflict,” and Pr. Justin Ginsud, MAUM Vice President for NDR-IEL, who shared powerful insights on “The Healing Power of Forgiveness” and “Developing Evangelistic Care Groups in the Family.” Pr. Kozel Malim, SAB Executive Secretary, encouraged participants with “When the Ideal Is Not Met,” while Pr. Kozani Malim, SAB Family Ministries Director, spoke meaningfully on “Intimacy.”
A highlight of the retreat was the video presentation of Family Ministries activities by regions, showcasing the impact of family-focused initiatives across the mission. Participants also engaged in interactive couple-sharing sessions, Q&A discussions, and heartfelt prayers among partners, deepening both their communication and faith.
A truly memorable moment came during the baptism ceremony, where five individuals gave their lives to Christ — including one non-Adventist couple and three individuals with Adventist spouses.
On Saturday night, couples enjoyed a joyful Hawaiian-themed fellowship dinner, complete with couple games and laughter — a fitting celebration of love, faith, and togetherness. The retreat concluded the next morning with a touching Affirmation of Love Covenant, where each couple read their covenant together, followed by a special prayer of blessing by Pr. Justin and Pr. Kozel for every couple.
Participants expressed heartfelt appreciation for the meaningful weekend. “Thank you for such a valuable program,” wrote one couple. “We were so blessed by the marriage enrichment program. Praise God!” shared another. Others echoed words of gratitude: “Congratulations, Pr. Kozani and the team, for the excellent family retreat!”
Through every message and moment, the Marriage Retreat Convention 2025 reminded couples that a marriage anchored in Christ is truly a marriage anchored in hope — a light that shines for others to see.
Reported by Hazel Wanda Ginajil-Gara, MAUM Communication Department
18, November 2025, Tuesday.