MEMBERS of the Children’s Ministry and their leaders from nine Seventh Day Adventist Churches within the Dovele District of North Vella, Western Province, successfully held their annual retreat.
The weekend camp held at Sorezaru, Winali campsite at the end of last month was attended by more than 300 children and their leaders.
Camp preparation started about one week before the commencement of the programme and culminated with the arrival of children on Thursday 27 July and Friday 28 July.
The theme of the retreat was ‘Fiercely Faithful.’
A staff from Jones Adventist College (JAC), Zoleilo Paul, who also attended the programme to support the young ones, told Solomon Star last week that event was held from Friday 28 July to Sunday 30 July.
“The kids were pretty much excited because it coincided with the end of their Term Two school break.
“Most of them came prepared for the event,” Mr Paul said.
He said even some kids from a nearby logging company also attended.
“In total, more than 300 children attended. It was the biggest gathering of children in the district to date,” he said.
“The participants’ faith was tested by strong wind and heavy rain on Friday night during their vespers programme.
“But this did not dampen the children’s spirit,” Mr Paul added.
“The weather cleared from Sabbath onward and children from each of the churches within the district took turn to dramatise Bible stories such as of Daniel and his friends, Joseph, Abraham, Job and others who demonstrated strong faith amidst the overwhelming challenges they faced.
“The children enjoyed their programme from Sabbath School, AY and closing,” he further added.
Singing was also part of the programme with the voices of the little ones echoing through the camp ground.
Mr Paul reported that one thing that stood out was the fact that all the children were in their colourful uniforms during worship time and sports.
“They looked very beautiful in their uniforms. Their uniforms made the programme very colourful throughout that weekend,” he added.
At the close of the Sabbath evening, glow lanterns were lit and sent into the air to signify the children’s desire to stay faithful to God.
Sunday was dedicated to sports and different games were organised for the children based on their various age groups.
The children had fun playing and competing with each other.
The Children’s Ministry District Leader, Nanu Patovaki said the recent Children’s Ministry retreat was the biggest ever for the district after COVID-19.
She said it was evident that all the children enjoyed themselves mingling with each other.
Families that attended also enjoyed the programmes.
The camp was closed by the Area Church Pastor (ACP), John Zama, who also provided a generator for the programme.
He acknowledged the organisers and the children for making the programme a successful one.
Words of acknowledgements also went to people who contributed towards making the programme a successful one. The acknowledgements were conveyed by the Assistant Children’s Ministry Leader, Mrs Newreth Leawood after the closing.
By MOFFAT MAMU
