High school pastors' kids from across Southwestern Mindanao came together on August 16-17, 2024, at the union headquarters to discuss the misconceptions and struggles they face as children of pastors. The SwPUC Children's Ministries Department, which spearheaded the event, ensured it was a safe space for these young attendees to have open and honest discussions with peers who could relate to them, as well as with mentors who listened and offered advice.

"This is the first time an event like this is happening in SwPUC, and the children are anticipating it. Even the adults whose fathers were pastors are excited because they never had such opportunities before," said Marife Patalinghug, of the SwPUC Children's Ministries Department.

Patalinghug observed that the children responded positively to the resource speakers, who provided valuable insights to help them become more responsible, address misconceptions, and understand their struggles.

The two-day convention also covered topics such as the impact of smartphones and other gadgets, the importance of health, maintaining a positive mindset, and understanding the theme "Daddy Needs You the Most." The speakers included Pr. Elvin Salarda, Pr. Johnster Joe A. Calibod, Pr. Junifer Colegado, Dr. Jimmy Adil, Dr. Alevir P. Pido, Dr. Emelita Baul, and Jayzelle Kris T. Alboria.

Aside from the lectures, there were rapport discussions, group dynamics, and reflections, during which participants wrote their thoughts on a post-it note and posted them on a wall. One participant wrote: "My father worked hard every day in the ministry, so I wanted to show him affection and become an important support for him in his work."

On Saturday, Danita Caderma, the Children's Ministries Director for the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, spoke about the role of the church and its mission, focusing on the unique calling of being a pastor's kid. She prayed for the pastors' kids to feel that they are part of the ministry and encouraged them to support their father's ministerial work.

"It's very challenging to be a pastor's kid, but we are thrilled to emphasize how important their role is. They should be encouraged to get involved in ministry," Patalinghug added.

After hearing the lecture by Pr. Jerry Patanglihug, SwPUC President, on misconceptions about pastors' kids, Jaxith Jez Pepito commented: "As pastor's kids, we still have to uphold God's image. It's still important to do our part in spreading God's word wherever we go as pastor's kids."

The Children's Ministries Department hopes the convention will prepare these pastors' kids for their evangelistic campaigns, which are expected to materialize this year across all missions and conferences within Southwestern Mindanao.