Children’s Ministries Department Equips Local Churches Through Creative Support

Clovis, Calif. — Sometimes the most meaningful ministry happens in unexpected moments — when a call comes in, a need is shared, and God opens the door to serve in new ways. Two recent stories highlight how the Central California Conference Children’s Ministries Department is empowering churches to reach children and families more effectively.

Overwhelmed to Equipped: Melissa’s Story

When Melissa Barreto was asked to lead the children’s program for her church’s upcoming evangelistic series, she felt unprepared. With only three weeks to prepare, she worried about how to create a meaningful program.

Encouraged by a friend, Melissa contacted the Children’s Ministries Department. Within hours, she and fellow church member Natalie had filled an SUV with resources — including puppets, prizes, colorful decorations, and a Noah’s Ark backdrop that perfectly matched the theme of their series.

“Driving away with an SUV full of decorations felt like such a blessing,” Melissa said. “This is a wonderful resource others need to know about.”

With those tools in hand, Melissa and her team were able to focus on what mattered most: helping children experience the love of Jesus during the evangelistic meetings.

A Creative Redesign: Sandra’s Story

At San Jose Central Seventh-day Adventist Church, Children’s Ministries Director Sandra Jackson had a different vision. She wanted to transform the church’s mother’s room into a welcoming and functional space for parents with young children.

Working with the Children’s Ministries Department, Sandra received design plans and inspiration, including seating arrangements, calming color palettes, and storage solutions for baby items.

“Lisa put some of my thoughts to paper and brought great ideas to life,” Sandra said. “This was exactly what we needed.”

Partnering With Local Churches

These stories showcase the department’s wide-ranging support — from supplying event materials to consulting on church spaces.

“Whether big or small, practical or creative, our mission is the same,” said Lisa Plasencia, director of Children’s Ministries for the Central California Conference. “When churches are equipped, children and families are reached — and that’s what matters most.”

Written by Lisa Plasencia