By Julie Stutler, serving with The Alliance in Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic
Recently, I was greeted by an office manager in the building where Alianza, our Alliance church plant, is located.
When I inquired about her five-year-old son, she smiled and told me he had not stopped talking about the Super Bible Adventures Camp he attended at Alianza during Easter week. This was his first time at such an event. He loved every minute—from the songs to the games to the puppets. But most importantly, he was impacted by the interactive Bible stories, during which the kids were part of the action.
“Jesus Is My Savior”
This woman related how her son told her about every story in great detail. My eyes filled with tears as she recounted her son exclaiming, “Jesus was nailed to a cross for our sins, Mommy, and He came back to life. Jesus loves us, and He is my Savior.”
Because of what her child had learned, the mom is quite interested in visiting the church. This is only one of many examples of how God moved during the camp.
More than 80 children enjoyed three activity-filled afternoons in the Academy of Superheroes (the camp theme). Through lively music, choreography, crafts, and more, the youngsters were introduced to Jesus Christ—the greatest hero of all time—who was played by one of the teenagers from our youth group.
Superheroes in Training
As part of their “superhero training,” the children enthusiastically memorized Bible verses. They not only had fun but also learned important life lessons, made crafts, and learned of Jesus’ great love for them.
On the day we talked about Christ’s entry into Jerusalem, the children were asked to express a word of praise to Jesus. The little ones hugged the teen playing Him and said, “Jesus is my hero.”
During the camp’s last day, the Crucifixion and Resurrection account was presented. Even the older kids were filled with joy and awe as Jesus came out of the tomb, offering them new life. They understood that He is the only superhero who rose from the dead and can truly save them from their sins.
Of the 82 children who attended the camp, the majority were not part of our congregation. Also, more than 10 different nationalities were represented among the parents, who heard Christ’s message through their kids’ involvement with Alianza.
Ongoing Discipleship
God has continued to work through these youngsters. Already, new families have started attending our congregation, and others have expressed interest.
On a recent Sunday we began Discovery Land, a unique children’s program developed by the Appleton (Wisconsin) Alliance Church that equips the local church to reach and disciple kids for Christ.
Recently, I spoke with a mom whose family attended their first Sunday service because the children had participated in the Bible camp. They came to church because of the Discovery Land program.
“Our kids love it and want us to return every Sunday,” the mother said.
These children are now spreading the gospel to their parents and friends. Please pray that God will continue to impact families through this event and that many will become followers of Jesus.
You too are superheroes. It is because of your faithful prayers and sacrificial giving that we are able to host events like this camp. Thank you so much for giving to the Great Commission Fund. You are helping us share the amazing message of Christ’s redeeming love with the families of Punta Cana!
Join the Alliance family in praying for our workers in the Dominican Republic and worldwide, who are reaching people of all ages with the good news of Jesus. Use the weekly Alliance Prayer Requests to assist you.