On 2 and 3 August 2025, more than 70 teachers, shepherds, mentors, and helpers from Barker Road Methodist Church’s (BRMC) Church School, filled with chatter and excitement, gathered at Village Changi Hotel for their annual Summit. United under the theme “One in Christ for Our #nextgen”, the two-day Summit was filled with reflection, equipping, worship, and fellowship – renewing the call to nurture the faith of children and youth based on the mission of the Church School which is to mentor, empower, nurture and disciple each child and youth to Know God intimately, Imitate Christ absolutely, Serve God unreservedly, and Share Christ passionately.

One Heart, One Mission

The Summit encapsulated the essence of One Heart, One Mission through the synergy and collaboration between the Children and Youth Ministries and other ministries within the wider Church family such as Family Life. From the start, participants were invited into a posture of R.E.S.T: Reflect on their service, Experience and Encounter Jesus anew, Surrender struggles and hopes, and be Taught by Jesus — creating space for God to refresh and equip them for service.

Equipping Across Ministries

Nurturing an Inclusive Church School @ BRMC

The Children’s Ministry engaged in an interactive session led by the Koinonia Inclusion Network (KIN). Presentations and sharing by KIN facilitators highlighted the importance of nurturing an inclusive Church School through shared experiences, collective equipping, and Christ-centered engagement. Through role-plays and shared insights, teachers stepped into the shoes of their young learners, wrestling with real classroom challenges and learning to respond with wisdom and grace. The session revolved around the “3Cs” of Church School: Content, Character, and Community – reminding participants that lessons go beyond knowledge, shaping lives and relationships rooted in Christ.

Witnessing the testimony of different ones who have given of themselves and served faithfully in Church School through the years, one participant commented that it was refreshing to be encouraged by one another, especially those who have served faithfully for many years. It reminded her of why we serve and the fruits of labour that come from testimonies.

Equipping & Planning for Youth Ministry – The Next Lap

For the Youth Ministry (YM), the Summit was a space for equipping and planning. Shepherds and adult mentors reflected on the past year, expressed appreciation for one another, and envisioned the “Ideal YM.” From book study to ideation sessions, they sought clarity on how best to engage and disciple young people in today’s shifting landscape.

Wisdom Around the Fireside

One of the key highlights of the Summit was the fireside chat with Dr Cheah Fung Fong, Vice President of TRAC, former Chairperson of the TRAC Board of Children’s Ministry, and Co-Chairperson of D6 Singapore who inspired and encouraged the hearts of many as she spoke authentically on how she continues to remain passionate about her work with children and youth. She shared that children and youth are full of potential to be used by God for His plans.

Her words resonated deeply with one participant who echoed this truth as a key takeaway from the Summit that the children and youth are more capable than we give them credit for—we just need to equip and empower them.

Dr Cheah also shared with the participants about the unique challenges posed by technology and AI in today’s world and gave practical advice for balancing ministry, work, and rest.

Worship in Unity

The Summit also featured a powerful evening of worship led by Josh Yeoh, who serves on the Worship and Intercession Ministry leadership at RiverLife Church. Together, participants lifted their voices in praise and prayed for one another, for the children and youth entrusted to their care, and the wider church at large. As they gathered in small prayer groups, the vision of being One in Christ across ministries and generations came to life.

Moving Forward Together

As the Summit closed, participants left renewed in vision and strength. The weekend was not merely a pause but a re-commissioning: to disciple the next generation faithfully, creatively, and prayerfully.

With renewed hearts and strengthened bonds, the Church School family moves forward with hope and faith, committed to discipling the #nextgen for Christ, with the reminder that Jesus is in each and every class session with us. Just as He has prepared the work for us, He will also continue to equip us with the tools required for ministry to our next generation.