July 11, 2012 – High Springs, Florida, United States…Libna Stevens/IAD
“As children’s ministries leaders, we need to become strong effective disciplers of children, encourage, empower and equip parents and families to be able to guide children into becoming spiritual giants,” said Linda Koh, children’s ministries director for the Adventist world church as she addressed hundreds of leaders from throughout Inter-America.
Koh’s message set the tone for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Inter-America’s first territory-wide Children’s Ministries Leadership Convention which commenced last evening and will continue through the weekend.
At a time when children across the globe are facing broken homes, abuse, and wordly temptations, special focus must be placed to help children find Jesus and live as God purposed them, said Koh.
“If we want to raise spiritual giants, we must help children find God’s vision for their life, set a good biblical worldview, partner and equip parents to be primary spiritual disciplers and provide the kind of supportive churches they need to grow in,” emphasized Koh.
It’s about being the right spiritual leaders to disciple children into becoming spiritual giants for the church and the community, she said. It’s about giving, children ownership letting them participate and lead in worship, evangelism, discipleship, stewardship, and letting them serve people in the community.
“Tomorrow’s missionaries, tomorrow’s strong pastors, and strong leaders, begins with today’s children,” said Koh. “Raise many ‘Davids’ so they can fight the ‘Goliaths’ in their lives,” she challenged.
For Cosvi Dzul who leads children’s ministries for the church in Central Mexico, Koh’s message and challenge gave her strength and support.
“We are certifying leaders and parents at the same time with special courses to nurture our children spiritually,” said Dzul. “That’s the key to discipling and raising spiritual giants for the Lord.”
The convention themed “Fit with Jesus” will continue throughout July 15 with dozens of seminars, programs and special activities.
To view a photo gallery of the event, visit www.flickr.com/photos/interamerica
For updates on Inter-America’s Children’s Ministries Leadership Convention, visit us at www.interamerica.org
