The Ministerial Convention and Stewardship Summit was held from 28 July to 2 August 2026 at Basilea Christ Cathedra in Jakarta, Indonesia. A total of 33 pastors, departmental leaders, and officers from Sarawak attended the gathering. Throughout the week, participants engaged in worship, biblical reflection, leadership training, and meaningful dialogue focused on strengthening pastoral ministry and stewardship practices. The gathering also provided an opportunity for church leaders from different countries, cultures, and ministry contexts to share experiences and encourage one another in building vibrant and mission focused churches.
Several speakers from the General Conference shared inspiring messages and experiences with approximately 3,200 delegates from the SSD territories. Pr. Ramon J. Canals, Ministerial Secretary of the General Conference, reminded participants, “We are here that need transformation.” Paul Douglas, Treasurer of the General Conference, emphasized that pastoral ministry begins in secret with God before it is seen in public with people. He reminded pastors that ministry requires a calling and purpose, which is to love God, love people, and lead people to Jesus. He also emphasized that pastoral ministry is about conviction, not convenience, and that God empowers His people when there is unity.
Paul Douglas also reminded the participants that the messenger must personally live the message. “The messenger should love the message so that he can live according to the message. The world will see the message live through the messenger, and many people will be attracted to it.” Dr. Orathai Chureson addressed the important responsibility of church leaders to protect children from abuse. She reminded participants that abuse can often go unrecognized and unreported in churches, schools, and ministries. “The children in the church should be protected by us as church leaders,” she emphasized, reminding everyone that abuse is sin and violence against God’s character.
Pastor Anthony Kent spoke on “Ministering to the Heart of the Pastor’s Children,” highlighting some reasons children may become disconnected from the church, including conflict, perceived hypocrisy within the church, and differences in values, priorities, and tastes. He shared 12 healthy responses for parents when their adult children become disconnected from the church. These include expressing love, praying, staying connected through regular communication, listening, asking how they can become better parents, being willing to apologise, and seeking help from others. Most importantly, parents were encouraged to never give up hope and to continue believing that Jesus can save and restore their children.
The Ministerial Convention and Stewardship Summit became a meaningful time of spiritual renewal, learning, and reflection for the 33 participants from Sarawak. The messages reminded them that effective ministry begins with a personal relationship with God, a clear calling, a life that reflects the message being preached, and a commitment to care for people and families. As they returned to their respective fields, they were encouraged to continue serving with conviction, unity, compassion, and a renewed commitment to advance the Kingdom of God and lead people to Jesus.
Ministerial Department, Stewardship Department
