Church Leaders Receive 'Alive In Jesus' Training

Story by Keisha Bone

Churches across the Allegheny West Conference gathered for the inaugural Alive in Jesus Sabbath School training Sept. 6–7. Sponsored by the conference’s Children’s Ministries Department, this event introduced the new curriculum, which will replace the Gracelink curriculum. Participants explored the curriculum’s core pillars: grace, character development, and mission. The Alive in Jesus curriculum aims to cultivate a faith-filled life, emphasizing the Bible as a trustworthy source.

The training included workshops on children’s faith development, multiple intelligences, and special needs, offered both in English and Spanish. Attendees learned to engage children with diverse learning styles through hands-on activities.

This initiative seeks to empower parents, caregivers and teachers to foster thriving relationships with Jesus in children’s lives. By incorporating Bible stories into their everyday experiences, the curriculum promotes inclusivity and supports all abilities. Future expansions include Baby Steps and Beginners in 2025, followed by Kindergarten and Primary in 2026, and Junior, Teen, and Youth levels in 2027 and 2028.

Courtney Brown, a member of the Bethany church in Charlottesville, Va., remarked on the motivation and inspiration gained from the event. Tanya Muganda, Children’s Ministries conference director, highlighted the importance of Sabbath School in instilling biblical values.