As churches wrap up or prepare for summer programs, Capitol Center SDA Church reflects on the success of its recent Cactusville Vacation Bible Experience. Held from April 22 to 24, with graduation on April 25, the event brought together 67 children for a faith-filled learning journey.
With the theme “where kids are called to follow Jesus,” the event hosted 49 Adventist children and 18 non-Adventist children. Organizers designed Bible-centered activities to nurture character and friendship in an engaging environment, and later recognized the week as a significant success.
Adding excitement to the program, each day featured a lively daily call where the sheriff, Sis. Edmira Duarte, would shout, “Howdy!” and the buckaroos and little cowpokes would respond enthusiastically, “Yee-haw!” setting a joyful tone for every session.
Bible themes guided the spiritual focus throughout the program: Day 1, Called to be Different – John the Baptist; Day 2, Called to be Faithful – Abraham; Day 3, Called to Forgive – Joseph; Day 4, Called to Serve – Deborah; and Day 5, Called to Give – Jesus.
The Vacation Bible Experience featured interactive learning stations that guided the children throughout the program. These included “Red Bandanas or the Praise Team” for music and worship, “Campfire Station” for Bible storytelling, “Gold Nugget” for memory verse anchored on 2 Timothy 1:9, “Trading Post” for crafts and creative activities, “Wild Horse Corral Station” for games, “Chuckwagon” for snacks, and “Sunset Canyon” for prayer moments. Sessions ended with “Round Up and Closing Station” activities, where leaders reviewed lessons and children reflected on what they learned.
The program aimed to help children grow in their knowledge of Jesus while developing values such as kindness, obedience, trust in God, forgiveness, and service.
Throughout the event, children took part in songs, stories, activities, and group interactions that made learning both meaningful and enjoyable, with many forming new friendships and gaining a deeper appreciation of biblical teachings.
A buckaroo participant shared, “I learned that Jesus loves me and I enjoyed the games and songs.” A little cowpoke added, “I made new friends and learned many Bible stories,” while another said, “I want to join again next year because it was fun and inspiring.”
Ram Enriquez, a “Wrangler” volunteer, stated that one of the highlights of the event was seeing children participate with joy and enthusiasm, from singing during worship to engaging in Bible lessons. He also pointed out the unity among volunteers, which showed teamwork and a shared passion for service, and emphasized the fulfillment of witnessing young minds shaped and hearts touched by God’s love.
Wrangler Lejen Años expressed gratitude and said, “Thank you, Lord! It was tiring, but very fulfilling, especially as a future educator. I really wanted to be part of the ministry, and I am glad I took the opportunity.”
Church leaders observed a positive response from both children and parents, noting that the program strengthened community relationships and opened doors for continued outreach, especially among non-Adventist families.
Pastor Kim Felias, leader of Capitol Center SDA Church, outlined future plans for expansion through an “Each One Reach One” initiative, which encourages every Adventist family to sponsor a non-Adventist child. He also emphasized stronger collaboration between church school teachers and the Children’s Ministries Department, as well as greater inclusion of non-Adventist students from the church school in future programs.
Pastor Roberto Gedaro of the Chinese-Filipino Church described the program as “a wonderful experience for children to learn more about Jesus and develop godly character,” and noted that the activities strengthened relationships and encouraged children to focus on Christ.
Sis. Edmira G. Duarte, head of the children’s department at Capitol Center SDA Church, reflected on the experience and said, “Time may have been our challenge, but our greatest strength was the team God sent to meet it. Despite a group of busy professionals and devoted parents, focus remained on making something truly grand for the Lord.”
She recounted that throughout the program, God’s perfect timing became evident—He sent exactly the right people at the right moments, lightened the load, and made the impossible possible through a joyful, shared success. What once seemed like an obstacle became a rewarding testament to His grace.
The Cactusville Vacation Bible Experience concluded with a joyful graduation ceremony, marking a meaningful end to a week that brought spiritual enrichment and impact to both children and the wider church community.
Leaders expressed hope that the program continues in the coming years, with the goal of reaching more children and strengthening their walk with God.
By Maricel Bojos ⎸ Central Visayan Conference of the Seventh-day Adventists
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