Milton Seventh-day Adventist Church “Unites 4 Kids”

By Makena Horton

UCC Communications Coordinator

The day was part of Unite 4 Kids, an event organized by UCC that encourages conference members to come together with their church for a special day of prayer and fasting for the children, teachers and volunteers in the local schools, clubs and Sabbath school programs as they prepare for another school year.



“I think one of the values of a prayer initiative like this, is that it made all of the participants a part of the youth ministry team,” says Richie Brower, associate director of UCC club, youth, and young adult ministries. “It’s also an opportunity for church members to let teachers and volunteers know that we appreciate what they do, and we support them.”

Milton Seventh-day Adventist Church held a special back-to-school church service aligned with the mission of Unite 4 Kids and invited local teachers and staff to attend the service. The service expanded beyond the schools and focused on kids and their families.

While the service was also streamed online, there was high in-person attendance. “We all agreed that this was the fullest in-person service we have had since the beginning of the pandemic,” says associate Pastor Nancy Canwell.

Many children were involved in the service, including a second-grade girl who assisted Canwell with introducing teachers, staff and board members from the local school. “I involved kids of all ages to take over parts of the service. Many proud parents showed up with their kids,” shares Canwell.

Pastor Lloyd Perrin had a prayer of dedication for the teachers and staff and prayed for God’s guidance in the new school year. “Our principal told me after church that introducing and praying for the teachers and staff made them feel loved and supported,” adds Canwell.

The children also felt the encouragement from the church and enjoyed being a part of the service. “I think that the kids also felt support, a lot of love and appreciation,” says Canwell. “When they're the focus of a church service like this—and active participants—the church feels like it’s their church. They all really enjoyed taking part and did an amazing job!”

“Our kids are in the enemy’s cross hairs, and we need to direct focused prayer toward Heaven on their behalf,” says Brower. “Now, more than ever, they need the community and support that we offer in Sabbath School, clubs, and the classroom.”