By Alleyhandra Celio anak Anis, Media Volunteer Sarawak Mission
Tuesday, 28 January 2025
The AIJ initiative’s overarching mission is to shape the spiritual lives of the next generation of Adventists, guiding children not only to learn about Jesus but also to love Him and share His message with others. [Photo courtesy of Sarawak Mission Children’s Ministry]
In 2024, the Sarawak Mission Children’s Ministries Department launched an extensive training initiative designed to equip educators with the essential knowledge, skills, and resources required for the successful implementation of the AIJ curriculum. This initiative aimed to do more than just teach—it sought to foster a deeper connection between the educators and the mission behind the curriculum. The training sessions were strategically conducted across various zones in Sarawak, utilizing both physical and virtual platforms to ensure broad accessibility and diverse participation. The program kicked off in August 2024 at Badul Homestay, Singai, Bau, where 26 participants, including Children’s Ministries (ChM) teachers and Ministerial Spouses, gathered for foundational training. Over the course of the year, similar workshops were held throughout Sarawak, engaging over 240 participants.
One of the most successful zones was Zone 9, which spans Betong, Roban, Sibu, Julau, and Kapit, where 44 teachers participated in the training sessions. This high attendance reflected the zone’s commitment to the development of local teachers, crucial for the long-term success of the AIJ curriculum. Smaller, yet equally impactful sessions in remote areas like Zone 12 (Miri-Lambir & Brunei) ensured that even the most distant communities were adequately prepared, further extending the training’s reach. These sessions were designed to be both educational and interactive, allowing teachers to engage in hands-on activities and share insights, enriching the learning experience.
Under the expert guidance of Yvonne Jabeng (Director) and her dedicated team of facilitators, each training session was meticulously planned and executed. Resources such as invitation letters, program itineraries, and session materials were carefully prepared to ensure smooth delivery. The program emphasized logistical excellence, from coordinating schedules to ensuring that all participants had the necessary tools for their professional growth. In addition, the training sessions fostered a sense of community among the educators, providing a platform for them to not only learn from facilitators but also from each other, exchanging experiences and best practices.
The AIJ initiative’s overarching mission is to shape the spiritual lives of the next generation of Adventists, guiding children not only to learn about Jesus but also to love Him and share His message with others. With the curriculum’s gradual rollout planned from 2025 to 2028 and ongoing global feedback to refine the process, this initiative seeks to create a robust educational framework. The training sessions in Sarawak serve as a strong foundation for this mission, ensuring that teachers are well-prepared to impart the values of the AIJ curriculum in their local communities. With the solid groundwork laid in 2024, the AIJ initiative is positioned to make a lasting impact on children’s ministries across Sarawak, nurturing the faith of young hearts and minds for years to come.
Across the 12 zones, a total of 241 attendees were empowered through these training sessions, covering areas like teaching strategies, spiritual growth, and leadership development. These events provided vital opportunities for fellowship, mentorship, and collaboration, building a stronger, more connected community of Children’s Ministry teachers and Ministerial Spouses throughout Sarawak.
With the tireless efforts of leaders like Yvonne J., Rachel R., and others, these gatherings were more than just events – they were transformative experiences that equipped participants with the tools they needed to further God’s kingdom and impact the next In conclusion, the 2024 training initiative by the Sarawak Mission Children’s Ministries Department has set a strong foundation for the successful implementation of the AIJ curriculum. Through a well-organized series of sessions across various zones, both in-person and virtually, over 240 educators were equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to nurture the next generation of Adventists. The commitment of dedicated facilitators, like Yvonne Jabeng and her team, ensured that every aspect of the training was executed with excellence, fostering not only professional growth but also a sense of community among the teachers. As the curriculum begins its phased rollout in 2025, these training sessions stand as a testament to the mission’s success so far and its enduring commitment to shaping the spiritual lives of children throughout Sarawak. The AIJ initiative is poised to leave a lasting impact, empowering educators to guide young hearts toward a deep, lifelong relationship with Jesus.
Children Ministry Department