https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12852/3619 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 19:11:51 GMT 2026-04-13T19:11:51Z https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12852/3621 Lived experiences of parents of children with developmental disabilities: Basis for a pastoral care training program Franco-Labis, Mary Grace This study explored the lived experiences of parents of children with developmental disabilities as a basis for pastoral care. The participants of the study were 6 mothers and 4 fathers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome (DS), and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). They were asked about the challenges they have encountered raising and caring for a child with a developmental disability; how they cope with the situation of having to raise a child with a developmental disability; the strategies they used in coping with having children with disability; their insights and experiences and lessons they had learned, and shared with parents with the same situation; and the suggestions they gave for church pastors/ministers and churches to help families in handling and dealing with children having developmental disabilities. The findings were as follows: Parents commonly experienced grief, worry, and disbelief upon receiving their child’s diagnosis; pressures on handling a child's changing behavior; stress in juggling multiple responsibilities; no time for respite; and difficulty dealing with sibling conflicts were the challenges they had encountered in having a child with a developmental disability. The parents were able to cope because of the moral and social support from family, friends, and other parents of children with special needs; spiritual support; and acceptance of reality of the plight of their children; and they believed that pastoral care must be intentional; hence, this study proceeded on planning and creating a manual for Pastors because a Pastor is the spiritual leader of a faith community. Full text available Wed, 01 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12852/3621 2024-05-01T00:00:00Z https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12852/3620 A historical analysis of the Baptist principle of the local autonomy of the church Jalando-on, Francis Neil G. This dissertation examined the principle of local autonomy within the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC). The historical development of this concept was explored, from its roots in the New Testament to its contemporary application within the CPBC. The American Baptist missionaries introduced the concept of local autonomy when they came to the Philippines. The CPBC adopted this principle, but its interpretation and application have caused various issues and challenges. The research aimed to define and interpret the principle of local autonomy within the CPBC, and address issues related to its application. To achieve this, the study employed a historical method in examining the development of local autonomy from the Reformation to the present context and analyzes the theological foundations and biblical basis for local church governance. It emphasized the importance of finding a balance between independence and collaboration within the CPBC. Findings showed that to achieve this balance, there is a need to maintain doctrinal unity based on core beliefs, establish clear guidelines for both autonomy and collaboration, learn from other Baptist denominations, incorporate Filipino cultural values, foster shared decision-making processes, and promote interdependence among member churches. The study concluded that local autonomy for CPBC is not about absolute independence, rather it is about empowering local churches while maintaining interconnectedness and collaboration. This approach, informed by key findings, fosters a thriving denomination that enriches the lives of the communities it serves. Full text available Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12852/3620 2024-04-01T00:00:00Z