Yudith Flores
The Carolina Conference’s Hispanic Children’s Ministries brought together more than 300 children and youth from 41 congregations for a special Evangelistic Week, starting October 19, 2024. Throughout the week, young participants delivered sermons, engaged their communities, and witnessed 25 baptisms as a result of their heartfelt efforts.
The initiative, aimed at empowering children and youth in ministry, provided comprehensive training for parents, teachers, and preachers over the year. Each congregation received sermon materials, visual aids, and activity suggestions to enhance the experience. For many churches, the event was an opportunity to see young voices take the lead in sharing their faith.
“This was a unique experience! The children loved it, and the teachers did an excellent job,” said Santa Arvelo of West Charlotte, N.C., Spanish Church.
Some challenges, such as a lack of teacher support in certain congregations, were overcome through meetings to reinforce the program’s value. Many churches reported high attendance, with children who were not Seventh-day Adventists also participating and even presenting sermons. The program’s success has inspired the formation of new Bible study groups and future events, including a Youth Congress in January 2025 and the Pentecost 2025 evangelistic series.
The week concluded with a celebration of Adventist Children’s Day. Each young preacher received a backpack, diploma, and pin, while those baptized were presented with a special Bible to commemorate their commitment to Christ.
For the children who participated, this experience was life changing. Many discovered a newfound confidence and joy in sharing their faith, with several already asking to be included in next year’s program, themed Pentecost 2025.
Carolina | January 2025
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