The Lasting Impact of Sabbath School

Is children’s Sabbath School beneficial for young kids? At Brevard Seventh-day Adventist Church, one story stands as a testament to the profound impact it can have. Twenty-five years ago, Rose Sikora and her husband joined Brevard Church, where Rose was soon asked to lead the children’s department. What began as a simple ministry turned into a lifelong connection and a powerful example of how early spiritual seeds can bear fruit.

One Sabbath morning, 9-year-old Kristen Michel and her sister attended Sabbath School with their grandmother. Kristen was captivated by Rose’s Bible lessons and faithfully returned every week. However, after moving away from her grandmother, Kristen stopped attending church. For two decades, she drifted, facing life’s challenges without the anchor of faith. Then, twenty years later, Kristen answered the call of Jesus and returned to Brevard Church—this time with her own toddler in tow.

After the service that day, Kristen was astonished to find Rose still active in the church. Overjoyed, Kristen shared her desire to study the Bible, learn the church’s doctrines, and become an active member. Rose and her husband eagerly agreed to lead her in Bible studies. For Rose, it was deeply rewarding to see that Kristen still remembered the lessons she learned in Sabbath School so many years ago.

“Life without God was difficult,” Kristen shared. But through her studies and reconnecting with the church, she found clarity. “This is the right church, and this is where I need to be,” she said. Kristen came to realize that only Jesus could bring the change she needed. “When we learn about God, realize that we have free will, and understand how blessed we are, it motivates us to dedicate our lives to God because that is the most beautiful existence.”

The Brevard church community has rallied around Kristen, especially after the loss of her father. Their support has provided comfort and hope, helping her cope with grief while strengthening her faith.

Pastor Corey Reeves expressed his joy at Kristen’s return and the inspiring journey that brought her back. “To see a story like this, where Kristen comes back into the church from remembering childhood Sabbath School and the impact that one teacher can have, should be an encouragement to all of our members,” he said.

Pastor Reeves also highlighted how Kristen’s story demonstrates the generational impact of children’s Sabbath School. “This will not only affect Kristen’s life but will influence her children’s spiritual journey. Children’s Sabbath School is evangelism.”

Kristen’s story is a powerful reminder that the lessons taught in childhood Sabbath School can leave an indelible mark, sometimes waiting years before blossoming. For Brevard Church, it reaffirms the importance of ministering to the youngest members of the congregation—and trusting that God will water the seeds planted in faith.

—Clarissa Rosario