Behind the Pulpit
by Ma. Leah Fe D. Aquino BA 3-1D
Behind the Pulpit
As I grow with this person, I’ve come to realize that she’s not just a woman of faith but she’s also a woman of wisdom and knowledge. Reverend Guia A. Corpus, the Pastor of Shekinah Christian Church – Nagtahan, was a teacher by profession for almost 35 years before becoming a pastor.
According to her, she began to embrace her calling in 1990. It was not easy for her, as the ministry was located in Cabuyao, Laguna, which meant leaving her five children behind. However, by the grace of God, she was able to provide for and raise her children through her teaching profession. She also had the chance to travel internationally because of her profession. Sometimes I get it as a reminder that do not be afraid to accept the calling because the Lord will provide and sustain you in every way like how He did in Teacher Guia’s life.
I’ve had many opportunities to accompany her whenever she teaches in different schools. I also got the chance to join and learn new things. I often heard that they called her “Teacher/Ma’am Guia”. Some of them would make a joke story about her “Nandyan na ba si Teacher Guia? Nako dadaan na tayo sa tribulation”. Teacher Guia is a disciplinary one but she poured out the best in her for her students.
Her profession extended on the four corners of the classrooms, many people reached out to her for being their mentor in values. And with that she couldn’t resist saying no for that. She loves teaching, she is committed and faithful to her calling.
A few days ago, I accompanied her to teach at newly deployed Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) traffic enforcers. I saw once again how dedicated she is when it comes to teaching. People are listening and giving so much respect to her. At first, I thought her topic was easy, but as I listened to her new insights, they truly struck me and made me think deeply. I hope that these people gain learnings and insights, not just a headknowledge but application in real life.
“Experience is the best teacher.” I truly agree with that, as her life experiences add great value every time she teaches, especially to the younger generation. She doesn’t teach about what the book says, but rather she molds minds and hearts, nurtures and guides people with right perspective and great principles.
“Always see the positive things in a person” she always sees the best thing in a person and that’s the great lesson that I’ve learned from her. Behind the pulpit is not only a teacher of faith but a teacher of life.