Africa is called the “young continent” for a reason. According to a UNICEF report, by 2050, forty percent of the world’s children will be African.

“Children are not only the future of the church, but they are also the church of today,” said Celeste Chaguala, Africa Region NDI coordinator. “That’s why our responsibility to disciple them in the image of our Savior Jesus is urgent.”

Understanding the importance of introducing Christ to the little ones, the Africa Region Nazarene Discipleship International – Children’s Ministries held a training from March 19-23 on the Africa West Francophone Field in the city of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where three countries from this field were represented: Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea Conakry, and Senegal.

The training was conducted in two districts, Cote d’Ivoire South and Central, with 115 participants.

The event aimed to equip children’s ministry leaders to present the gospel to the little ones better, both creatively and dynamically. In addition to the practical part of children’s discipleship, Patricia de Zuniga’s outstanding book “Abba” was presented.

“Abba” is a children’s Bible teaching material that presents God’s relationship with man through the Lord’s Prayer. By using this book, leaders are hoping to see children on the region grow in a deep and intimate relationship with God through prayer.

At the end of the training, the team carried out activities with children from the local churches and the trained teachers/leaders to practice everything they had learned. Approximately 200 children were present for these activities.

In addition to the participants, this training was attended by Celeste Chaguala; Rozzaria Mumba, regional children’s ministry facilitator; Lydie Gomis, Africa West Francophone Field children’s ministry coordinator; and Mrs Thaís Sitoe, Lusophone Field NDI coordinator.

Similar training will take place on all the fields in the Africa Region, and the printed book will be given to all Nazarene children in Africa, so they also can believe in our loving God, our Father.

-- Church of the Nazarene Africa Region