More than 130 children and their families gathered at Balgai Seventh-day Adventist Church (New Ireland Province, Papua New Guinea) on July 26 to celebrate Children’s Sabbath.
Held under the theme “Solid Rock with God”, based on Isaiah 41:10, the program featured creative and well-organised activities based on the Alive in Jesus (AIJ) Sabbath school curriculum strategies. Designed to engage both children and parents, the event included a range of spiritual and educational segments.
As part of the celebration, four infants were dedicated by Pastor Benis Kotoveke, with certificates presented to their families.
The program was led by the children’s ministries teachers at Balgai Church, who spent time in prayer to prepare. Children were involved in every aspect of the day, from welcoming guests to presenting special items, which “brought joy to the entire congregation”, according to attendees.
As part of the outdoor activities, the children were divided into four groups to dramatise and retell the story of the prophet Elijah.
During the service, children’s ministries teacher Jane Gabu encouraged church members to remain firm in their faith.“Just like the prophet Elijah, you must always stand on the solid rock, which is Jesus,” she said. “Always move with Jesus so He will help you face the obstacles in your life.”
Pastor Kotoveke also addressed the parents, urging them to pass their faith on to the next generation. “Be faithful to God for what you have learned in church, and pass it on to your children,” he said.
Dianne Pelap, women’s and children’s ministries director for the New Britain New Ireland Mission, affirmed the importance of the event. She also thanked the General Conference children’s ministries department for setting aside the day for children worldwide to participate in service and mission.
“This program fosters the participation of children in service and mission,” said Ms Pelap. “It creates an avenue for children to be part of the church and learn how they can be involved in discipleship.”
The congregation was reminded that in all circumstances—whether joyful or uncertain—Jesus remains their solid rock.
