Pasadena, CA- Five Latino pastors from the California-Pacific Conference were honored as 2025 National Parents of the Year during a ceremony at Pasadena City Hall on July 26. The recognition, presented as part of National Parents Day, celebrates parents whose love, leadership, and commitment strengthen families and communities.

Among this year’s honorees were Rev. Luis Garcia (DS South District), Pastor Ruben Esponda (La Trinidad UMC), and Rev. Saul Montiel (Fallbrook UMC), along with Rev. Dr. Joel Hortiales (Park Hill UMC) and Rev Alexandro Vilches (Huntington Park First UMC). Each was recognized for their dedication not only to their own families, but also to the many individuals they serve through their ministries.

The annual awards are organized by the Universal Peace Federation and supported by a coalition of nonprofit organizations. Established in 1994, National Parents Day is celebrated on the fourth Sunday in July to honor parents in perpetuity.

Local and city officials joined the event, presenting certificates and sharing words of appreciation for the honorees’ example of faith, compassion, and service.