July 10, 2012 – High Springs, Florida, United States…Libna Stevens/IAD
Hundreds of Seventh-day Adventist leaders and teachers from throughout Inter-America have been arriving by the dozens to the territory’s first ever children’s ministries leadership convention which begins tonight at Camp Kulaqua in High Springs, Florida, United States. More than 500 are expected to arrive for the five-day event.
A group of about 18 from Haiti flew into Miami International Airport then traveled by bus to Camp Kulaqua this morning. “We’re a little tired,” said Jeannine Extract, children’s ministries director for the church in Haiti, “but relieved we are finally here.”
Maria Guadalupe Arenas from North Chiapas in South Mexico was all smiles after resting from being up for 24 hours yesterday. “I left my house at 3 a.m. from Villa Hermosa to Mexico City to Orlando to Camp Kulaqua,” said Arenas. “We are excited and happy to be here and get the opportunity to meet others this week.”
Dinorah Rivera, children’s ministries director for the church in Inter-America and organizer of the event, said she is excited to see the groups arrive. She added that planning the convention for the last eight months has consumed much of her energy and attention.
“I’m so thankful to have some 30 speakers and seminar presenters available for this convention,” said Rivera. “It brings me great joy to see them from all over our territory ready learn more and commit to nurturing our children spiritually.”
The convention will begin tonight at 7:30 p.m. and will continue until Sunday, July 15, 2012.
To view a photo gallery of the event, visit www.flickr.com/photos/interamerica/
For updates on Inter-America’s Children’s Ministries Leadership Convention, visit us at www.interamerica.org
