Our Legacy
Bishop William C. Smith:
The Foundation of Faith
Bishop William Smith's visionary leadership as Chairman of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World Inc. International Missions Department transformed the spiritual landscape of the southern Philippines. Under his passionate administration as Diocesan of the Philippines District Council, the ministry experienced explosive growth from 10 churches to 117—a testament to the authentic power of Gospel transformation.
Throughout the region, countless masses heard the Gospel and experienced the New Birth through repentance, water baptism in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and receiving the Holy Ghost. Bishop Smith's holistic ministry extended beyond spiritual matters, blessing communities with food, computers, clothing, books, and shoes. His legacy includes the construction of dormitories, establishment of schools, repair of homes, and most importantly, lives transformed in the Name of the Lord Jesus.
Bishop Robert B. Thomas:
Sustaining the Vision (2011-2022)
In 2011, Bishop Robert B. Thomas assumed the bishopric, building upon the strong foundation laid by Bishop William Smith and First Lady Louise Smith. His unwavering commitment was demonstrated through annual ministry trips to the Philippines, leading U.S. delegations to the 45th Episcopal District's convention and consistently spreading God's word with cultural sensitivity and deep relationship-building.
When the global pandemic struck in 2019-2020 and travel restrictions threatened to sever international connections, Bishop Thomas displayed remarkable adaptability. He innovatively hosted The Annual Philippines Fellowship at his home church, Apostolic Faith Church in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, ensuring that spiritual bonds remained strong despite physical barriers. In 2022, he retired as Bishop Emeritus, leaving behind a legacy of faithful service and creative ministry leadership.
Bishop Arden L. Luster Sr.:
Continuing the Legacy (2022-Present)
The divine continuity of leadership was beautifully demonstrated when Suffragan Bishop Arden L. Luster Sr. was appointed Bishop Elect by Presiding Bishop Theodore Brooks in late 2022. Having served faithfully as a delegate alongside Bishop Thomas, he had already established deep connections with the people of the southern Philippines and understood their spiritual needs intimately.
During the 2023 P.A. of W., Inc. Convention in St. Louis, Missouri, Bishop Luster was consecrated as Diocesan of The Southern Philippines District Council 45th Episcopal District. His leadership represents both continuity and fresh vision, as he dedicates himself to honoring the rich legacy while guiding continued spiritual growth and community transformation.