Alive in Jesus Leadership Certification Level 5 and Vacation Bible School Training , themed “Fire Up to Reach: Preparing Children for Heaven,” was successfully conducted by Davao Mission (DM) on March 21–22, bringing together leaders, parents, and volunteers for a transformative learning experience. The two-day program highlighted parenting, discipleship, and creative strategies for children’s ministry, leaving participants inspired and equipped to nurture the next generation in faith.
The event opened on Sabbath with vibrant praise and worship, followed by the keynote message “God’s Blueprint of Parenting” from DM Children’s Ministries (ChM) Director Mrs. Charity Allarse. She reminded attendees of the biblical mandate: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). Ellen G. White’s counsel echoed
this call: “The work of parents is not a light or trifling work, but one that requires earnest thought and prayer, and persevering effort” (Child Guidance, p. 21).
Alive in Jesus (AIJ) Training is for Sabbath School teachers, parents, and caregivers to help children develop a personal relationship with Jesus, love for Scripture, and practical discipleship habits. The target audience divided into age brackets will be: Babies (birth–12 months); Beginners (1–3 years); Kindergarten (4–6 years); Primary (7–9 years), and; Junior and Youth levels (up to 18 years).
Meanwhile, Vacation Bible School (VBS) Training is to prepare churches and volunteers to run evangelistic seasonal or summer programs for children, primarily with ages 4–12, using themed kits. The tasks will include organizing and promoting VBS events, teach Bible-centered lessons through crafts, games, and music. Importantly, it involves outreach strategies to involve families and communities.
Sessions led by Josie Felda Calera, Northern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (NLPUM) ChM Director, addressed parenting in the modern age, media influence, and communication strategies with children. She emphasized evangelizing within the 4–14 window and guiding children toward a life of witness and service. Pr. Reynaldo de la Cruz, DM President, enriched the program with worship and a session on teaching sexuality from a Christian perspective, reminding participants of Christ’s prayer: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth” (John 17:17).
Afternoon workshops showcased the Alive in Jesus curriculum, with demonstrations for Baby Steps, Beginner, and Kinder levels. Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM) ChM Director Jill Palomares presented “Teaching with Impact through AJ,” underscoring that ministry is not only about instruction but about modeling Christlike character. As the Spirit of Prophecy reminded: “Special efforts should be made to draw out the minds of the children, not merely upon the subject of the lesson, but in the direction of religious life and Christian experience.” Ellen G. White, Sabbath School Worker, Oct. 1, 1885, par 1.
A highlight of the training was the Cactusville VBS 2026 showcase, where participants engaged in interactive stations designed to teach biblical lessons through creativity and participation. The “Wagon Wheel” snack preparation became a memorable symbol of Christ’s earthly life, blending fun with spiritual meaning. The program concluded with a solemn commitment service led by Pr. Raul Emnace, SEPUM Sabbath School Director, where participants dedicated themselves anew to the mission of discipling children. Certificates of participation were distributed, followed by fellowship and thanksgiving.
Delegates expressed that while they had attended children’s seminars before, this training was uniquely impactful—combining practical strategies with spiritual depth. The emphasis on Christlike modeling and intentional parenting resonated deeply, inspiring renewed dedication. As Scripture reminds: “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:14).
“Such meetings for children and youth, if rightly conducted, will be attended by many who are not of our faith, and the lessons learned at the meetings will be repeated at home. Through the children the parents may be reached.” Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, 106.1
Contributor: Ms. Kristidane Narvaez
Riverdale Seventh-day Adventist Church, Core Team Member and Demonstrator of the Cactusville VBX Training 2026
Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1NSGumtVBf/
Photo Credit: Hope Channel Davao
