Children and adolescents are not “the church of tomorrow,” they are vibrant, active, joyful parts of the church today. That’s why SBC CHAM Day is one of the most meaningful moments on our calendar. It’s a full celebration of our children and adolescents’ gifts, voices, talents, and bright faith. And honestly, it reminds the adults of something we forget way too often: childlike trust in God is powerful.

This year’s theme, “God’s Love Is ROCK SOLID,” comes straight from Isaiah 41:10, a promise that God holds us steady even when life feels shaky. And if we’re being real, children and adolescents alike know all about shaky moments, whether its new schools, big emotions, new responsibilities, friendships, losses, and everything in between. SBC CHAM Day gives them a safe space to declare, “God is with me. I don’t have to be afraid.”

The program takes us on a fun “mountain journey” that echoes the theme of the Mountains of Miracles VBS. Think campsites, story stations, rock-solid activities, music, and interactive learning because this CHAM's Day is not just sitting and listening, it’s about moving, acting, shouting anchor words, building, laughing, and worshipping together as one family. Furthermore, on this awesome day, children and adolescents will get the opportunity to preach, read Scripture, sing, lead prayer, and guide adults through this Sabbath service in their own special way.

One of the exciting highlights is the Story Walk, where everyone is encouraged to travel from station to station around the church. At each stop, they will encounter a different part of Elijah’s story that comes alive, for example, the times God provided, protected, spoke, and showed His mighty power. Children and adolescents would pick up a rock at every station and write down a truth they want to hold on to, like God is Real, God Provides, or God Knows Me. The purpose of this feature is that these little rocks will eventually become part of a big “foundation altar” at the end of the service. One could say it’s a simple act, but don't be mistaken, this activity has the power to make the message unforgettable because when life feels shaky, the message is that God stays solid.

I must say one of the things I love the most about this program is how intergenerational the whole experience is; seniors, teens, parents, little ones, everyone can learn from each other. Adults get to cheer CHAM kids on, and they in return, get to see adults kneeling, praying, singing, and enjoying worship right beside them. Elijah’s journey wasn’t one he walked alone, and neither should our children or adolescents.

SBC CHAM Day is more than a program; it’s a reminder that our kids matter, their voices matter, and their faith matters. As we climb this “mountain” together, we’re building a community where every child knows they are seen, valued, loved, and supported.

Because one thing is certain: God’s love is ROCK SOLID and so is the foundation we’re helping our children and adolescents build.

                                                                                                                                                  Kenisha Simms serves as the  Children and Adolescent Ministries Director (since 2022) of the South Bahamas Conference. Kenisha, along with her husband, Pastor Manasseh Simms, serves at the Ephesus Seventh-day Adventist church and previously served the churches of Eleuthera.