13/05/2026
IGLESIA FILIPINA INDEPENDIENTE
Diocese of Sugbongcogon
Vacation Church School (VCS) Re-Echo Seminar 2026
Under the Episcopal Leadership of Rt. Rev'd. Romeo G. Tagud
The Committee on Christian Education and Nurture headed by the Committee chair Rev. Johnreal P. Jadman successfully conducted the Vacation Church School (VCS) Re-Echo Seminar 2026 on May 9, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM at Mission of St. James the Apostle, Punta Santiago, Talisayan, Mis. Or. The activity gathered forty-three (43) delegates from different parishes and missions together with six (6) clergy and seminarians.
The seminar was conducted with the theme, “Ako ay Kawangis ng Diyos,” focusing on the biblical passage from 1 Corinthians 12:12–27. The activity aimed to strengthen the ministry of Christian Education and Nurture by equipping church teachers with updated knowledge, skills, and approaches in facilitating Vacation Church School programs in their respective parishes and missions. It also intended to deepen the participants’ understanding of the value and dignity of children as created in the image of God while promoting inclusive and holistic Christian formation.
The program formally started with an Opening Worship led by Rev’d. Fr. Romenick R. Jaudian. The worship service prepared the hearts and minds of the participants for a meaningful day of learning, reflection, and fellowship. This was followed by the opening remarks by Women of the Philippine Church (WOPIC) President of host mission which warmly welcomed all participants and emphasized the significance of Christian Education in strengthening the faith and spiritual growth of children within the church.
After the opening segment, Ms. Shenna Lego facilitated the Acknowledgement, Expectation Check, and Getting-to-Know-You (GTKY) activity. Through this session, participants were able to introduce themselves, build fellowship, and express their expectations and hopes for the seminar.
The first major session of the seminar was Input 1: Biblico-Theological Reflection on the Theme facilitated by Rev’d. Fr. Johnreal P. Jadman, Lunao Mission Rector. His discussion centered on the seminar theme “Ako ay Kawangis ng Diyos” through the lens of 1 Corinthians 12:12–27. He emphasized that every individual, including children, forms part of the body of Christ and possesses equal worth, dignity, and purpose before God. The reflection encouraged the participants to recognize and nurture the unique gifts and potential of every child entrusted to the church.
The seminar continued with Input 2: VCS 2025 Assessment and Evaluation facilitated by Ms. Marina Tubo. The session reviewed the accomplishments, strengths, challenges, and experiences encountered during the previous implementation of Vacation Church School programs in the different parishes and missions. Participants actively shared insights and recommendations to further improve future VCS activities. This was followed by Input 3: Learners’ Starting Context (SHOES) and the National Situation of Children in the Philippines, also facilitated by Ms. Marina Tubo. The discussion highlighted the present realities, struggles, and experiences of Filipino children and stressed the importance of understanding their context in preparing relevant and responsive church educational programs.
Ms. Marina Tubo also conducted the orientation on the NCCP VCS Curriculum and Manual/Module. During the session, participants were guided through the curriculum content, teaching flow, methodologies, and activities to ensure proper implementation of the VCS program in their local churches.
Another important topic discussed during the seminar was Input 4: Child Development Milestone facilitated by Ms. Shenna Lego. The session provided participants with a better understanding of the developmental stages of children and appropriate ways of engaging them in teaching and learning activities suited to their age and needs. The final lecture,
Input 5: Inclusion, was presented by Ms. Marina Tubo. The discussion emphasized the importance of creating welcoming, safe, and inclusive spaces for all children regardless of their background, abilities, and personal circumstances. Participants were encouraged to promote compassion, acceptance, and equal participation within church ministries.
One of the highlights of the activity was the VCS Theme Song Filming facilitated by Ms. Marina Tubo and Ms. Shenna Lego. The activity brought joy, creativity, and enthusiasm among the participants while strengthening camaraderie and teamwork.
At the end of the seminar, certificates and tokens of appreciation were awarded to the delegates, speakers, clergy, and seminarians in recognition of their participation and valuable contribution to the success of the activity.
The program concluded with closing remarks delivered by Mrs. Sonia Tubo. She expressed gratitude to all participants, facilitators, organizers, and the host parish for their support and cooperation in making the seminar successful. She also encouraged everyone to apply and share the learnings gained from the seminar in their respective parishes and missions.
The Christian Education and Nurture Committee also extends its heartfelt gratitude to the for their warm hospitality, generosity, and support throughout the conduct of the seminar. Their assistance and welcoming spirit greatly contributed to the success and meaningfulness of the activity. Overall, the Vacation Church School Re-Echo Seminar 2026 became a fruitful and meaningful gathering that strengthened the commitment of church workers and leaders in nurturing children through holistic Christian education. The activity not only enriched the participants’ knowledge and skills but also deepened their understanding of the importance of recognizing every child as created in the image of God. Through this seminar, unity, cooperation, and dedication among the different parishes and missions of the Diocese of Sugbongcogon were further strengthened in support of the ministry of Christian Education and Nurture.
