On Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., World Mission University hosted the Pastoral Conference under the theme “Preaching Hope: Healing Hearts, Restoring Lives.” Grounded in Luke 4:18 (“He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted…”), this event became a precious gathering where participants explored how the gospel and preaching can bring healing to those who are wounded in today’s ministry context.
Approximately 50 pastors and church leaders attended in person, while many others joined online through Zoom (59 participants), Facebook Live (308 views), and the Vision 800 Global Network (68 participants). This allowed the conference to move beyond a single location, connecting pastors across regions and becoming a space of challenge and inspiration.
The Journey of Word and Healing
The conference began with a time of praise and worship led by Edward Lee. As songs of worship filled the room, the hearts of the participants were united. Following this, Professor Juan Lee offered the opening prayer and explained the vision and purpose of the gathering. He reminded everyone that “a pastor is not merely a messenger of words, but a channel of God’s healing and restoration,” encouraging all to embrace this shared vision from the very beginning of the day.
“Sharing the call toward healing and restoration”
The first lecture was delivered by Pastor Luis Morales, titled “The Shepherd as an Instrument of Healing.” Drawing from Psalm 23 and 2 Corinthians 1, he emphasized that a pastor is more than a guide—he or she is an instrument through whom God’s comfort and healing are extended to the wounded. The audience resonated deeply, reaffirming the true essence of pastoral ministry.
In the second lecture, Professor Juan Lee spoke on “The Healing Power of the Gospel from the Pulpit.” Referencing Luke 4 and Isaiah 61, he stressed that the gospel, when proclaimed, is not just spoken words but carries the power to transform and restore lives. His message was a bold reminder of the living power of the Word.
“The power of the gospel flows from the pulpit”
The third lecture was given by Mervin Valiente, titled “Understanding the Wounds of the Latino Community.” He analyzed the social and emotional struggles faced by immigrants, highlighting the importance of pastoral empathy and accompaniment. His heartfelt presentation stirred deep reflection and compassion among the participants.
The final lecture, by Abraham Bejarano, underscored “The Practical and Continuous Nature of Healing Ministry.” Using John 10 and Galatians 6, he insisted that true healing cannot be a one-time event; it must be a continuous practice embedded in the life of the church. He urged churches to become consistent communities of care and healing.
Fellowship and Sharing
After the lectures, the participants shared a lunch fellowship. WMU student leaders joined the speakers in meaningful conversations about ministry experiences and future visions. In the afternoon, a time of open Q&A allowed pastors to raise practical concerns and explore deeper applications of the topics presented.
The day concluded with a group photo, capturing the bright expressions and warm atmosphere of the gathering. More than an academic conference, this event became a community of fellowship and healing.
Conclusion
This Pastoral Conference was far more than a series of lectures. Participants rediscovered the potential of healing within the Word of God and envisioned concrete ways to apply these insights in their ministry contexts. Above all, the conference became an important turning point toward the upcoming preaching workshops, laying a foundation for practical training and deeper engagement.
Attendees left with the conviction that “the path of preaching is always open to new possibilities.” This renewed perspective will surely enrich the ministry of preaching and healing in their churches and communities.
Conference Feedback Report
The Healing and Preaching Conference, held in August 2025, received overwhelmingly positive feedback from 66 respondents. Participants expressed deep appreciation for both the content and the atmosphere of the gathering, affirming that it was not only relevant to their ministry but also a transformative time in shaping their future preaching and pastoral work.
Overall satisfaction was remarkably high. Nearly all participants indicated that they were “very satisfied” or “extremely satisfied” with the event. The central theme, “The Pastor as an Instrument of Healing,” resonated deeply with the attendees, with more than 95% affirming that this message closely aligned with their pastoral calling.
Each lecture session was also highly valued. The lecture on “The Healing Power of the Gospel from the Pulpit” was considered especially powerful and impactful, convincing many that when God’s Word is faithfully proclaimed, it truly carries living power to heal and restore. The session on “Understanding the Wounds of the Latino Community” provided participants with a fresh perspective, deepening their empathy for immigrant communities and strengthening their pastoral sensitivity in multicultural settings. Likewise, the lecture on “Ministering Healing in a Continuous and Practical Way” was praised for presenting concrete tools that could be applied directly to ministry.
Respondents highlighted the clarity and insight of the speakers, with nearly all describing the presentations as professional, clear, and spiritually enriching. They also emphasized that the conference raised their awareness of the suffering of multicultural communities, especially Latino communities, and equipped pastors to engage their ministry with greater empathy and understanding. Importantly, more than 95% of participants expressed confidence that this conference would have a lasting and positive impact on their future preaching and pastoral ministry.
The open-ended responses revealed a wide range of pastoral concerns and future needs. Suggestions included preventing pastoral burnout, addressing criticism and emotional wounds, developing emotional intelligence among leaders, exploring the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and creating strategies for suicide prevention. Some participants also requested additional training on pastoral family care, youth ministry, and sermon series preparation. Many described the conference as “a great blessing” and strongly urged that such gatherings continue in the future.
In conclusion, the survey results demonstrate that the Healing and Preaching Conference was a resounding success. It not only met but exceeded expectations, inspiring pastors and leaders with renewed vision and practical tools for ministry. Above all, the event reaffirmed the role of the pastor as a healer within the community of faith, serving as a catalyst to bring hope and new strength into a world in desperate need of healing and restoration.
