The Fremont Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated children’s Sabbath Oct. 4 with the introduction of “Chosen Generation,” a new group which incorporates music, drama, pantomime, and especially, sign language. The group includes children ranging in ages from seven to 13 years. Their name was inspired from 1 Peter 2:9: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”

“Chosen Generation” director, Evangelina Perez-Bechtel, brings a wide background of music and ministry to the group. After graduating from La Sierra with a music degree, she became the first Seventh-day Adventist to win the grand prize at the Estes Park National Christian Artist Seminar Competition (1980). She was able to share her vocal ministry with many churches, organizations and media ministries throughout the United States and several countries of the world. However, a freak accident left her disabled, in chronic pain, and bedridden much of the time. Because of this accident, she was unable to continue her self-supported ministry: Koinonia Concerts Evangelistic Association.

While she has suffered setbacks, Perez-Bechtel remains steadfast in her dedication. “I know God has a purpose for my life. He has promised that what He started in me He will continue until it’s finished,” she says. “Although I do not have the strength or ability to share the ministry I was given previously, I am thankful because I believe that God has given me a new direction and that direction is through the young people of our church.”

Perez-Bechtel is enjoying the challenge of sharing her vision with the kids in her group. “I can share now through the strength and vitality that lies within the youth of my congregation,” she says. “They are so precious and they are our future. So many young people are willing to serve, but they need and desire the direction of those who can mentor them.”

While children’s Sabbath is celebrated only once a year in the North American Division, the Fremont Church has used this as a catalyst to celebrate children many times throughout the year. They encourage their Fremont Mission Hills Christian Adventist School to do the church services periodically and encourage the young people of their church to participate in the worship services.

“Chosen Generation” is making plans to “show forth the praises” to the Lord by sharing their ministry in their community as well as other churches in the area. They are young and on fire to share the love of God through their talents so that the work can be finished. Their first full concert will be Dec. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Fremont Church.

John Bechtel is the pastor of the Fremont Seventh-day Adventist Church.