Partnering with the church to reach youth

In January 2009, Miika and Riitta Parkkinen joined OM Finland to pioneer kids’ clubs in Tampere, with the aim of teaching children biblical values through fun activities. With the support of local churches, six Mix Ministries clubs have since been started in different locations.

About 20-30 children meet in school halls during the afternoon, while 40-50 teenagers meet in city-run youth centres during the evenings. Each partner church runs its own youth group. “We have put together a three-year course that tackles questions like ‘Who is God?’, ‘Who am I?’ and ‘What is the purpose of life?’ says Miika. “This serves as a framework within which to prepare fun activities.”

Finnish schools are open for Christian youth workers to lead morning assemblies during Easter and Christmas. Miika is an avid puppeteer and enjoys presenting the Gospel message with the help of his puppets. Just recently, a pilot project was initiated for disabled children in Tampere. About five children attended the first meeting, which was encouraging. “These kids need to hear of God’s love too,” says Miika.

Please pray for Miika and Riitta as they run these kids’ clubs. Pray that children and teens will learn more about themselves and God during this time, and be open to a relationship with Christ.

OM’s role in the Church is to mobilise people to share the knowledge of Jesus and His love with every generation in every nation. OM pioneers and leads initiatives to redeem lives, rebuild communities and restore hope in over 110 countries.