July 10, 2007
Some 120 churches across Ecuador are involved in Awana ministry, and nearly 9,000 children are participants in the Christian children’s program. Alliance missionaries Randy and Joy Newburn are on special assignment to direct, organize, and promote Awana clubs inside and outside of The Alliance.
Last month in Ecuador, the Newburns participated in two Awana Games, annual sporting events designed to reach clubbers’ unsaved family members and friends for Jesus. Many who are reluctant to visit a church service are often enthusiastic about attending a sporting event, especially if their children are involved.
The first game was held in Quito and the second in Imbabura. “It was a great opportunity to present the gospel to the parents as well as the children,” said the Newburns. “You only had to hear the tremendous roar and see the smiles on the faces of the children to know how much fun they had.”
During the event, the Newburns painted the faces and arms of 90 children while giving them a gospel presentation. Some 156 children participated in the competitions and more than 300 were spectators.
Recently, nearly 70 people attended a workshop for children’s workers at the Awana office. “There is no more room, but many are interested in this type of help,” they said. “We are praying that God will enable us to build two more stories on our office to be able to add a larger conference space.”
The mother of one young club member teaches catechism in a Catholic church. Her child can’t attend every Awana meeting because she must participate in her mother’s class; however, the little girl is helping her mom by teaching the class the Bible verses she has learned in Awana.
The Newburns request prayer for an Awana conference in Quito, August 17-18, and in Guayaquil, September 7-8. “Pray for good attendance and that many church leaders will take advantage of this opportunity to learn how to better work with children.”