On June 26–27, 2026, children’s ministry and Sunday school teachers from churches of the Association of Baptist Churches (ABC), together with teachers and ministry workers from other local churches, gathered for two meaningful days of training, fellowship, and mutual encouragement.
The gathering was about much more than gaining new knowledge or learning new teaching methods. It was an opportunity for those who faithfully serve children week after week to come together as one family, strengthen one another, and be reminded of the importance of the calling God has entrusted to them.
At ABC, we believe that children’s ministry is not simply about programs, lessons, or activities. It is about people investing their lives in children—helping them know Christ, understand His Word, and grow into a faith that can shape their entire lives. During the training, teachers were reminded that they are instruments in God’s hands, called to touch the hearts of children and lead them toward a deeper knowledge of Jesus.
Equipping Teachers for a Changing Generation
Throughout the two days, the participants explored practical subjects designed to strengthen both their ministry skills and their ability to respond to the needs of today’s children.
One session explored the possibilities of artificial intelligence and how it can serve as a supportive tool in children’s ministry. Teachers considered ways AI could help save time in preparing materials, generating ideas, and developing educational activities—giving ministry leaders more space to focus on what technology cannot replace: building relationships, providing spiritual care, and investing personally in the lives of children.
Another important focus was mission and how to nurture a missionary heart in children from their earliest years. Teachers discussed how to help children understand God’s mission in the world and recognize that every child can be a witness for Christ—in their home, school, church, and community.
The goal is to raise a generation that does not see mission as something reserved for a few people in distant places, but understands that God sends each of us to represent Christ wherever He has placed us.
Participants were also introduced to curricula and resources available for children’s ministry in our country, providing teachers with additional tools for offering engaging biblical teaching that focuses on children’s spiritual growth and responds to the needs of this generation.
Caring for Children in Difficult Times
One of the deepest and most meaningful parts of the gathering addressed a reality that cannot be ignored: many of the children we serve are growing up surrounded by war, violence, uncertainty, and repeated pressures.
A workshop called Nada led by Ranaa Haddad explored trauma and psychological stress and how these experiences can affect people physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Participants gained a deeper understanding of what happens within them during periods of stress and learned practical ways of restoring balance and calm.
The workshop also helped teachers consider these realities through the eyes of children. In light of the difficult circumstances our country has experienced, understanding the effects of trauma is increasingly important for those ministering to the next generation. Teachers were encouraged to become sources of safety, support, and encouragement, accompanying children as they move toward healing and healthy growth.
Investing in Teachers Means Investing in Children
A total of 16 teachers and ministry leaders participated in the training. They left with new ideas, practical resources, and tools for ministry—but perhaps even more importantly, they left encouraged.
They were reminded that they are not serving alone.
They are part of a wider family of believers and churches working together for the Kingdom of God.
This is why gatherings like this are an important part of the ministry of the ABC. When we equip one teacher, the impact does not stop with that individual. That teacher returns to a local church and invests what they have received into the lives of many children. Those children, in turn, carry what they learn into their families, schools, friendships, churches, and eventually into the next generation.
Investing in those who teach children is an investment whose fruit can continue for generations.
We are deeply grateful for everyone who helped prepare, organize, pray for, and contribute to this gathering. We also thank every church, friend, and partner who believes in the importance of equipping those who serve the next generation.
Our prayer is that the fruit of these two days will continue to appear in the lives of the children being served throughout our churches—and that God will use what was learned and experienced to raise up a generation that knows Him, loves Him, and lives for Him.
Let us plant today in the lives of children with faith and love, trusting God to produce fruit that will remain for generations to come.
