Children's program

As a church, it’s important to take in mind that a sense of belonging should be there for everyone regardless of the differences, especially in age.

Mennonite World Conference is well-aware of this matter, hence Assembly 17 in Indonesia has a children’s program. This is provided for children to be able to experience, connect and learn together with those of the same age from around the world in the global church.

Held at Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Sangkakala Salatiga (STT Sangkakala), children’s theme emphasizes learning. Jennifer McWilliams, the acting Children’s Program Coordinator explained that

“The big idea was Jesus invited others to learn from him to be disciples,” says Jennifer McWilliams, acting children’s program coordinator. Through this, the children learn to understanding that the church is bigger than they think.

Despite personal challenges and language barriers, the first session of the program went well on the first day. The people participating as volunteers have been very helpful during the conduct.

All in all, the Assembly is not only a place that caters to adult participants’ spiritual needs, but also the children’s. Through creative approaches, the program is a perfect place for the children to learn about each other and Jesus in a fun way.

—Windhi Arsari is a teacher. She is a member of GITJ Kelet, Indonesia.

*Today, there are three Anabaptist-Mennonite groups in Indonesia:

• Gereja Injili di Tanah Jawa (GITJ –Evangelical Church in the Land of Java)

• Gereja Kristen Muria Indonesia (GKMI –Muria Christian Church of Indonesia)

• Jemaat Kristen Indonesia (JKI –Indonesian Christian Congregation)