Prayers of Children

By Brandy Kimes
Kneeling before the children and arms extended, the power of prayer was displayed at Thursday’s community gathering. Filled with songs, story time, and a message by Camille Bishop, former Dean of the College of Education, the evening proved to be both inspirational and educational. The
U of N Preschool, Co-op and Foundation school teamed up to present an “Evening with the kids.”
Over 75 children participated in the program; some performed a dance to “God is big” while others played musical instruments along the front. Ruth Golden, head of the preschool and leader of the School of Early Childhood Education this quarter, transitioned from the preschoolers to Foundation School kids by reading Peter H. Reynolds book, The Dot emphasizing that children books present life values. All eyes watched as Ruth flipped through the book reading about young Vashti’s adventure with learning his gift in painting and as the teacher encouraged him with these words, “Just make a mark and see where it takes you.”
Three-fifths of Kenny Jackson’s family emceed the night, Mia Jackson encouraged the children who sat on mats along the front, to be well behaved during the message. When Camille was introduced, a little boy came and extended Hawaii’s traditional welcome. Speaking on Matt. 18:1-10, she emphasized the important role that children play in the Kingdom of Heaven while challenging the audience to think about how they are encouraging children to develop their gifts.
At the conclusion, children from both schools lined the front ready to pray over adults that came up. A pair of young boys even held up a sign reading “Free Prayer” smiling at the camera as it rolled by. Generations blended together into a sea of ageless wonder. Lined up for prayer adults came forward to find children eager to hear from the Lord. Throughout last week the children practiced hearing the voice of God each day in class.
“I didn’t even tell the two girls that prayed for me the things that they were praying. One of them prayed about a vision that I got a couple weeks ago,” said Sally Coppin, Colorado Springs staff.
“I think no one will ever forget the wonderful sight of all our children praying for all the adults who came forward for prayer. What a precious privilege that was—and I know that God is answering those faith-filled prayers!” Darlene wrote. She encouraged everyone to recommit to God’s purposes for children and youth of the world.