Children from the Mapanas Seventh-day Adventist Church in Samar led a children’s evangelistic crusade, which culminated in the baptism of 11 children.
The children’s evangelistic event, held May 10-16, drew about 70-80 attendees who were proud and happy to see their young family members speak about the love of God before a large crowd.
“It’s heartwarming to see our children beginning to serve as God’s instruments. May their passion to walk in God’s path and be His channel grow deeply in their hearts,” a parent said, expressing her joy as she watched her child on the pulpit.
“What could give parents greater happiness than seeing their children offer their lives to the Lord?” another parent said.
Pastor Armando Capangpangan, district pastor of Northeastern Samar 1, expressed appreciation to his wife, Janine, for initiating the event. Together with Rose, a fellow church member, and other youth, Janine trained and prepared the children for the event.
The following kids, ages 8 to 10, included Princess Esponilla, Yenyen Villamor, Khen Porteza, Brenjon Kyrie Remanes Baluyot, Bien Thomas Tejano, Andrea Celeste Tejano, and Bienvenido Mikel Tejano.
The event culminated in 11 children being baptized. Before the event, Janine had already begun training the children and invited them to join her in leading Bible studies for other young people. Pastor Jonathan Intanto conducted the baptism.
“Children should be trained to become missionaries while they are still young, so they can feel they are part of God’s ministry from an early age. As early as childhood, their minds and hearts can be shaped with the mission of sharing Jesus with others, especially with fellow children. Even at a young age, God can use them powerfully to reach souls and become instruments of His love and salvation,” Janine said.
Moreover, Michelle Bocboc, president of the women’s ministries for NORESA 1, appealed to every church member to support and continue to guide, encourage, and lead the young ones closer to God, for they are precious in His sight.
“As Jesus said in Luke 18:16, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God,” Bocboc stated.
These children will continue training under Janine, with the hope and prayer that they will grow up equipped and empowered to serve the Lord. Many parents also expressed a desire for their children to become powerful soul-winners as they grow up.
Lyn Lucero | East Central Philippine Union Conference