By Mikee Natinga Norico
Pastors, church leaders, and seminarians gather at the CPU College of Theology’s Celis-Ancheta and Pagsuberon Cruz Hall for the annual Church-Seminary Conference, strengthening bonds within the church community.
In a collaborative effort to strengthen future church leaders, Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Theology hosted its annual Church-Seminary Conference with the theme “Together Shaping the Future,” inspired by 1 Corinthians 3:9-11. The event took place at the CPU College of Theology’s Celis-Ancheta and Pagsuberon Cruz Hall and welcomed pastors, church leaders, and seminarians from nearly 32 member churches of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC).
The conference aimed to equip theology students with a strong biblical foundation to fulfill their calling in ministry, emphasizing the shared mission between seminaries and local churches in the Great Commission. This collaborative gathering sought to inspire both personal and professional growth, strengthening the wider faith community.
One of the highlights of the conference was the keynote address by Pastor Louvel Edson L. Caspe, CPU Campus Minister, who emphasized the importance of a strong foundation in Christ and the need for perseverance in ministry. He shared his own experiences with the audience, who are beginning similar paths, underscoring the value of establishing a solid foundation in Christ.
Pastor Caspe also spoke on the significance of diligence and discipline in pastoral ministry. Drawing from Proverbs 13:4, he explained how habits shape character, particularly in ministry. Through anecdotes, he encouraged seminarians to apply their seminary lessons in real-life ministry settings, building practical skills and resilience. He highlighted the importance of balancing responsibilities like worship leadership, pastoral care, and even basic tasks like cleaning, which contribute to their commitment and service.
The event also underscored the vital role mentors play in guiding seminarians. Pastor Caspe called on seasoned leaders to nurture and protect their student pastors, fostering a supportive environment that allows them to grow without unnecessary criticism. He concluded by urging everyone to remain disciplined, focus on God, and provide genuine support for student pastors as they develop in their dual roles of study and ministry.
The conference closed on a hopeful note, as church and seminary leaders recommitted to their united mission of building up future church leaders, reinforcing the belief that, together, they are indeed shaping the future.