Why should Adventists develop child-friendly churches?
Studies show that most people make a decision for Christ not in their teens but as young children. To keep them, the church must minister to them when they are young. Children matter!
Eager to learn more about connecting children to Christ, 98 adults and presenters participated in Southeastern California Conference’s first children’s ministries convention Nov. 11 to 13 at Pine Springs Ranch. In addition, 29 children were on hand to give instant feedback.
Organized by Manuel Vitug, associate youth director for children’s ministries at SECC, the event focused on church from a child’s view. He was joined by Eugene Oswald, history teacher at Orangewood Academy, and Kif Anderson, a professional musician turned Christian entertainer. Calling themselves Oz & Wilde, the duo uses comedy and gospel-themed illusions in their unique ministry. Oswald also directs Heroes Playhouse, a puppet ministry based at the Fullerton church.
The stage was set to exemplify creative décor for Sabbath school classrooms or other programs for kids. A child-friendly worship team led the convention in spirited praise. Puppet shows entertained adults and children while teaching godly principles. Adults participated in workshops; children had “funshops.” Games, crafts and stories emphasized important spiritual lessons.
Don MacLafferty, a presenter who is an associate pastor at the Collegedale church in Tennessee, introduced K.I.D.—Kids in Discipleship.
“Children are routinely taught biblical doctrine, baptized and then left to themselves. They are not being discipled to Jesus Christ,” he said. “Our purpose is to lead children to be faithful, fruitful disciples. K.I.D. is a mentoring ministry.”
Other presenters included Linda Penick, director of women’s ministries for the Pacific Union; Carmen Ibanez of Azure Hills church; Janeen Little of La Sierra University church; Lorneh Napon of Loma Linda Filipino church; Brent Kimura of Redlands church; and Nancy Chadwick of the Corona church.
The next SECC children’s ministries convention has been set for the second weekend in November 2006.
