3 Jun 2026, 11:26Ndumie MafuPlumstead, Greenwich, London, Greater London, England, United Kingdom
Rainforest Adventure Leads 17 Children to Graduation at Plumstead Community SDA Church
Second Annual Vacation Bible School Continues to Grow and Inspire Young Hearts
The Plumstead Community Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church Children’s Department celebrated another successful Vacation Bible School (VBS) programme as approximately 17 children graduated on Sabbath, 30 May 2026, following three exciting days of learning, worship, and adventure from 26–28 May 2026.
Building on the success of the church’s inaugural VBS in 2025, this year’s programme marked the second VBS hosted by the church and was held under the vibrant theme “Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God.”
The church hall was transformed into a breath-taking rainforest environment, complete with lush greenery, colourful decorations, and immersive learning stations that transported children into the wonders of God’s creation.
Discovering God Through the Wonders of Nature
Throughout the programme, children explored important biblical truths through interactive experiences designed to help them understand God's character and His relationship with humanity.
One of the highlights was Imagination Station, where children encountered fascinating rainforest discoveries. They learned about the colourful quetzal bird and observed the extraction of chlorophyll, uncovering surprising details about the natural world. These activities encouraged them to marvel at God's creativity and celebrate the beauty of His creation.
At Rooted Bible Adventures, children journeyed through Scripture to learn how God spoke the world into existence and declared His creation "very good." Special emphasis was placed on the creation of humanity and God's love for every person.
The children also enjoyed energetic participation in Wild Games, where teamwork, fun, and biblical lessons came together in an engaging way.
During Sing and Play Tune Lagoon, children learned Bible points and memory verses while singing themed songs from Rainforest Falls. They were introduced to the character of Dr. Flutterby, a scientist searching for a rare rainforest butterfly, whose adventures helped reinforce spiritual lessons in a memorable way.
At Sticky Scripture, children explored Psalm 103:22 through a fun "Praise Band" activity, discovering what it means to praise the Lord with their whole hearts.
Biblical Truths That Will Last a Lifetime
Each day focused on a key truth about God, supported by Scripture and Bible stories that helped bring the lessons to life:
God Created Everything
Bible Verse: Psalm 103:22
Bible Story: God Creates the World (Genesis 1)
Children learned that God is the Creator of all things and that every aspect of creation reflects His power, wisdom, and love.
God Knows Everything
Bible Verse: Psalm 139:1
"O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me."
Bible Story: David Celebrates All God Knows (Psalm 139)
This lesson reminded children that God knows them personally, understands their thoughts and feelings, and cares deeply about every detail of their lives.
God Is Our Safe Place
Bible Verse: Psalm 142:5
Bible Story: David Hides from Saul (1 Samuel 23–24)
Through David's experience, children discovered that they can trust God as their refuge and protector during difficult times.
A Joyful Graduation Celebration
The graduation ceremony on 30 May was a joyous occasion attended by parents, guardians, church members, and guests. Before the VBS graduates received their certificates, the programme opened with a special presentation by Sis Melody Matandirotya, who recognized several Adventurer children from Plumstead Community SDA Church. The children had participated in the SEC Adventurer Camporee the previous week and proudly returned with a trophy for the church. Their achievement was warmly celebrated by the congregation and set a positive tone for the afternoon's festivities.
The rainforest-themed decorations provided a beautiful backdrop as the VBS graduates proudly received their certificates.
Special guest Elder Craige Young joined the graduation ceremony to present certificates to the graduates, assisted by Sis Busiku, who also served as the Master of Ceremonies for the event. Elder Young had earlier been the guest speaker for the main worship service, where he delivered a clear and powerful sermon titled "Faith In The Rainforest: Trusting God in Every Season."
Drawing connections between the rainforest theme and the Christian journey, Elder Young shared four important lessons with the congregation:
1. When Life Gets Rainy, God Is With Us
Just as rain is essential for growth in the rainforest, trials and challenges can become opportunities for spiritual growth and blessing when we trust God.
2. God Provides Everything We Need
Using examples from nature and the story of Elijah, Elder Young reminded the congregation that God faithfully provides for His children, just as He sustains every living thing in the rainforest.
3. We Grow Best When We Stay Connected
Like rainforest trees whose roots connect and support one another, Christians grow stronger when they remain connected to God, family, and healthy relationships. He especially challenged the church to help children build strong connections with God.
4. God Has a Purpose for Every Child
Referencing the story of David's anointing in 1 Samuel 16, Elder Young emphasized that God has a unique plan and purpose for every child and that the church has a responsibility to nurture and encourage that calling.
To help engage the entire congregation, particularly the children, Elder Young distributed notepads during his sermon and invited attendees to draw pictures illustrating aspects of the message that resonated with them. The creative exercise encouraged active listening and participation throughout the service. The drawings were later collected and entered into a competition judged by a selected panel. During the graduation programme, Elder Young presented awards to the winning participants, adding an extra element of excitement and celebration to the day.
Expressions of Gratitude
The graduation programme was ably hosted by Sis Busiku Banda, whose warmth and enthusiasm as Master of Ceremonies contributed greatly to the success of the event.
Children’s Ministry Leader Sis Busi Khabo expressed heartfelt appreciation to everyone who supported VBS 2026 through donations, volunteering, prayers, and practical assistance. She also thanked the dedicated Children's Ministries team whose hard work made the programme possible.
On behalf of the pastoral team, Elder Ndumie Mafu, who also serves as the sponsor elder for the Children's Ministry, presented a special token of appreciation to the Children's Ministries team. Elder Mafu was not only present at the graduation ceremony but had also actively participated in the VBS 2026 as a volunteer crew leader, supporting the children and assisting with programme activities. Speaking in the absence of Pastor Wentworth Sewell, who was unable to attend due to urgent commitments, Elder Mafu commended Sis Khabo for her exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to children's ministry. Highlighting the impact of her work, he remarked that Scripture reminds us that "where there is no vision, the people perish," noting that Sis Khabo's vision and commitment continue to bless both the church and the wider community.
Reaching Beyond Church Walls
One of the most encouraging aspects of VBS 2026 was its community impact. Among the children who participated were two children from the local Muslim community, demonstrating the programme's ability to build bridges and create opportunities for friendship, learning, and spiritual growth across community boundaries.
Their participation serves as a reminder that children's ministry is not only about nurturing those already within the church family but also about reaching out and sharing God's love with the wider community.
Looking Ahead
As Plumstead Community SDA Church reflects on another successful VBS, there is much to celebrate. From the engaging rainforest adventures and meaningful Bible lessons to the joyful graduation ceremony, VBS 2026 provided children with memorable experiences and lasting spiritual foundations.
The continued growth of the programme from its inaugural year is evidence of God's blessing and the commitment of dedicated volunteers who believe in investing in the next generation.
We congratulate all 17 graduates and thank every volunteer, parent, donor, and supporter who helped make VBS 2026 a wonderful success.
To God be the glory for another year of growing young disciples through Vacation Bible School.
The Plumstead Community Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church Children’s Department celebrated another successful Vacation Bible School (VBS) programme as approximately 17 children graduated on Sabbath, 30 May 2026, following three exciting days of learning, worship, and adventure from 26–28 May 2026.
Building on the success of the church’s inaugural VBS in 2025, this year’s programme marked the second VBS hosted by the church and was held under the vibrant theme “Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God.”
The church hall was transformed into a breath-taking rainforest environment, complete with lush greenery, colourful decorations, and immersive learning stations that transported children into the wonders of God’s creation.
Discovering God Through the Wonders of Nature
Throughout the programme, children explored important biblical truths through interactive experiences designed to help them understand God's character and His relationship with humanity.
One of the highlights was Imagination Station, where children encountered fascinating rainforest discoveries. They learned about the colourful quetzal bird and observed the extraction of chlorophyll, uncovering surprising details about the natural world. These activities encouraged them to marvel at God's creativity and celebrate the beauty of His creation.
At Rooted Bible Adventures, children journeyed through Scripture to learn how God spoke the world into existence and declared His creation "very good." Special emphasis was placed on the creation of humanity and God's love for every person.
The children also enjoyed energetic participation in Wild Games, where teamwork, fun, and biblical lessons came together in an engaging way.
During Sing and Play Tune Lagoon, children learned Bible points and memory verses while singing themed songs from Rainforest Falls. They were introduced to the character of Dr. Flutterby, a scientist searching for a rare rainforest butterfly, whose adventures helped reinforce spiritual lessons in a memorable way.
At Sticky Scripture, children explored Psalm 103:22 through a fun "Praise Band" activity, discovering what it means to praise the Lord with their whole hearts.
Biblical Truths That Will Last a Lifetime
Each day focused on a key truth about God, supported by Scripture and Bible stories that helped bring the lessons to life:
God Created Everything
Bible Verse: Psalm 103:22
Bible Story: God Creates the World (Genesis 1)
Children learned that God is the Creator of all things and that every aspect of creation reflects His power, wisdom, and love.
God Knows Everything
Bible Verse: Psalm 139:1
"O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me."
Bible Story: David Celebrates All God Knows (Psalm 139)
This lesson reminded children that God knows them personally, understands their thoughts and feelings, and cares deeply about every detail of their lives.
God Is Our Safe Place
Bible Verse: Psalm 142:5
Bible Story: David Hides from Saul (1 Samuel 23–24)
Through David's experience, children discovered that they can trust God as their refuge and protector during difficult times.
A Joyful Graduation Celebration
The graduation ceremony on 30 May was a joyous occasion attended by parents, guardians, church members, and guests. Before the VBS graduates received their certificates, the programme opened with a special presentation by Sis Melody Matandirotya, who recognized several Adventurer children from Plumstead Community SDA Church. The children had participated in the SEC Adventurer Camporee the previous week and proudly returned with a trophy for the church. Their achievement was warmly celebrated by the congregation and set a positive tone for the afternoon's festivities.
The rainforest-themed decorations provided a beautiful backdrop as the VBS graduates proudly received their certificates.
Special guest Elder Craige Young joined the graduation ceremony to present certificates to the graduates, assisted by Sis Busiku, who also served as the Master of Ceremonies for the event. Elder Young had earlier been the guest speaker for the main worship service, where he delivered a clear and powerful sermon titled "Faith In The Rainforest: Trusting God in Every Season."
Drawing connections between the rainforest theme and the Christian journey, Elder Young shared four important lessons with the congregation:
1. When Life Gets Rainy, God Is With Us
Just as rain is essential for growth in the rainforest, trials and challenges can become opportunities for spiritual growth and blessing when we trust God.
2. God Provides Everything We Need
Using examples from nature and the story of Elijah, Elder Young reminded the congregation that God faithfully provides for His children, just as He sustains every living thing in the rainforest.
3. We Grow Best When We Stay Connected
Like rainforest trees whose roots connect and support one another, Christians grow stronger when they remain connected to God, family, and healthy relationships. He especially challenged the church to help children build strong connections with God.
4. God Has a Purpose for Every Child
Referencing the story of David's anointing in 1 Samuel 16, Elder Young emphasized that God has a unique plan and purpose for every child and that the church has a responsibility to nurture and encourage that calling.
To help engage the entire congregation, particularly the children, Elder Young distributed notepads during his sermon and invited attendees to draw pictures illustrating aspects of the message that resonated with them. The creative exercise encouraged active listening and participation throughout the service. The drawings were later collected and entered into a competition judged by a selected panel. During the graduation programme, Elder Young presented awards to the winning participants, adding an extra element of excitement and celebration to the day.
Expressions of Gratitude
The graduation programme was ably hosted by Sis Busiku Banda, whose warmth and enthusiasm as Master of Ceremonies contributed greatly to the success of the event.
Children’s Ministry Leader Sis Busi Khabo expressed heartfelt appreciation to everyone who supported VBS 2026 through donations, volunteering, prayers, and practical assistance. She also thanked the dedicated Children's Ministries team whose hard work made the programme possible.
On behalf of the pastoral team, Elder Ndumie Mafu, who also serves as the sponsor elder for the Children's Ministry, presented a special token of appreciation to the Children's Ministries team. Elder Mafu was not only present at the graduation ceremony but had also actively participated in the VBS 2026 as a volunteer crew leader, supporting the children and assisting with programme activities. Speaking in the absence of Pastor Wentworth Sewell, who was unable to attend due to urgent commitments, Elder Mafu commended Sis Khabo for her exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to children's ministry. Highlighting the impact of her work, he remarked that Scripture reminds us that "where there is no vision, the people perish," noting that Sis Khabo's vision and commitment continue to bless both the church and the wider community.
Reaching Beyond Church Walls
One of the most encouraging aspects of VBS 2026 was its community impact. Among the children who participated were two children from the local Muslim community, demonstrating the programme's ability to build bridges and create opportunities for friendship, learning, and spiritual growth across community boundaries.
Their participation serves as a reminder that children's ministry is not only about nurturing those already within the church family but also about reaching out and sharing God's love with the wider community.
Looking Ahead
As Plumstead Community SDA Church reflects on another successful VBS, there is much to celebrate. From the engaging rainforest adventures and meaningful Bible lessons to the joyful graduation ceremony, VBS 2026 provided children with memorable experiences and lasting spiritual foundations.
The continued growth of the programme from its inaugural year is evidence of God's blessing and the commitment of dedicated volunteers who believe in investing in the next generation.
We congratulate all 17 graduates and thank every volunteer, parent, donor, and supporter who helped make VBS 2026 a wonderful success.
To God be the glory for another year of growing young disciples through Vacation Bible School.
