The training was led by Gerry Lopez, North American Division associate Children’s Ministry Director, along with a team of trainers who provided guidance in both Spanish and  English tracks.  Photos by Ben Martin

November 14, 2024

Children’s Ministry Leaders in the Lake Union Get Ready for New Curriculum Launch

In a significant step toward enhancing the spiritual education of young families and in preparation for the new Division-wide Sabbath School curriculum, Children’s Ministry directors and representatives from Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Lake Region conferences gathered at  Pioneer Memorial Church for the Alive in Jesus curriculum training on May 18 and 19. 

The training was led by Gerry Lopez, North American Division associate Children’s Ministry Director, along with a team of trainers who provided guidance in both Spanish and  English tracks.  

Developed by the General Conference Sabbath School and Personal Ministries Department in collaboration with the church’s world divisions, including the North American Division (NAD), the new curriculum replaces GraceLink, Junior PowerPoints, Real-Time Faith, and Cornerstone Connections. 

“The discipleship approach applying biblical and researched principles of spiritual parenting are a strength of this new set of tools,” said Pioneer Memorial Church Children’s Ministry Leader Glynis Bradfield. “This curriculum is designed to empower parents and caregivers to effectively disciple their young ones.” 

The Sabbath afternoon sessions introduced the need to support young families disciple babies and toddlers. Citing research on spiritual, faith, soci-emotional, physical and mental development, they introduced the features of the Alive in Jesus first two levels of curriculum scheduled to launch in January 2025.   

On Sunday morning, the training featured a closer look at the Baby Steps curriculum for the first year of life, as well as the Beginner 3-year cycle curriculum for one-, two-, and three-year-olds. A demonstration of the interactive learning in both levels included introduction of the new parent time and materials available to nurture spiritual parenting growth.  

“The artwork for the wall-size backdrop, and illustrations in the quarterlies are warm, age appropriate, and inspire reading the family guide and learning about Jesus,” noted Bradfield. 

New and familiar songs with soundtracks, along with both teacher guide and family lessons all available for download, for increased access within the Lake Union and around the globe. 

For more information on the Alive in Jesus curriculum, click here. 


Herald staff