Future Leaders in Newark

Right now in America’s cities there are many future leaders ready and waiting to be trained. These leaders are young children and teenagers hungry for lasting friendships, stability, and the truth of God’s Word. At World Impact, discipleship is valuable at all stages of life to develop these leaders. It starts with encouraging Bible memorization and providing a stable environment for kids. Then it continues by giving teens with a place to form a safe community filled with sports, support, and spiritual teaching. These children and teens have the potential for greatness if they start their journey to success with a solid foundation built on Kingdom truths and community.

Most Saturday mornings a stream of children can be seen entering through the side door of the Newark Transformation Center; they are headed to King’s Kids. A six-week Bible lesson centered around Christmas and Easter allows for traditions to be established, which is especially important when so many of the kids who come live in violent, busy and broken neighborhoods. Their favorite traditions include the annual Christmas party, Easter egg dyeing, and potting plants for their moms on Mother’s Day. Each week also includes Bible memorization, organized gym activities that encourage cooperation, and a time of prayer and worship.

Over the years many King’s Kids have prayed to receive Christ and begin a relationship with Him. They are then given a Bible and a devotional book and are encouraged in their new walk with the Lord. They are continually poured into and prayed for as they mature both emotionally and spiritually. Many of these children grow up to attend Newark’s teen ministry and bring their friends with them! The teen ministry has steadily grown each week, ranging from 20-30 middle schoolers and 30-40 high schoolers. Each week the teens return, eager to play games and spend time with their friends and leaders. Although they are attracted by the activities offered, the leaders know they come for more than just basketball, air hockey and pool. The ministry is full of teens eager to feel the presence of God in tangible ways, through respect, relationships, and a safe space.

These children and young adults are the future leaders of Newark. It is through their actions and influence that the Church will be built. Our hope and prayer is that through the love and truth these young leaders experience families, communities, and the entire city can be reached for the Kingdom. 

Have you seen the East Bulletin? Read it here!