By Mark Cole | Albania | July 2025
“Let the little children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.”
—Jesus (Matthew 19:14 NLT)
I’m writing this from Albania, where less than 1% of the population identifies as Christian. As I meet families and observe the spiritual landscape here, one truth is hitting me hard: we must reach the children. If we’re serious about long-term Kingdom impact—whether in Albania, Canada, or anywhere—we must value and invest in children’s ministry.
1. Children Are Receptive to the Gospel
Studies show that most people who commit their lives to Christ do so before the age of 18. In fact, many of us can trace our own spiritual journey back to seeds planted in childhood—Sunday school songs, loving teachers, or the first Bible story we ever heard.
Children are naturally open, trusting, and curious. That makes them ideal soil for the Gospel. Jesus knew this. He didn’t just tolerate children—He welcomed them, blessed them, and even told us to become like them.
2. Children’s Ministry Is Discipleship, Not Babysitting
Too often, we treat children’s ministry as an afterthought—just something to keep the kids busy while the adults worship. But Jesus didn’t say, “Keep them busy until they grow up.” He said, “Let them come.” That means our ministry to children must be intentional, Spirit-led, and grounded in the Word.
We’re not just shaping their behavior—we’re shaping their worldview, their faith, and their relationship with Jesus.
3. In a Place Like Albania, This Is Urgent
Here in Albania, where most children grow up without ever hearing the Gospel, the opportunity—and the urgency—are massive. What if the next generation could grow up knowing Jesus as more than a religious figure, but as their Savior, their Shepherd, their Friend?
I’ve seen Albanian children light up when someone tells them about God’s love. The hunger is real. So is the opportunity.
Churches and missionaries here face challenges: limited resources, spiritual opposition, and a small Christian community. But one child who meets Jesus can change an entire family, neighborhood, and even a nation.
4. Every Church Must Prioritize Children
Whether you lead a church of 20 or 2,000, here are some ways to elevate your children’s ministry:
- Pray specifically for the children in your church and community.
- Invest in curriculum, volunteers, and safe spaces where children can encounter Jesus.
- Train your children’s ministry leaders with the same intentionality you’d give to pastors or worship leaders.
- Involve children in worship, service, and prayer—not just in age-specific programs, but in the life of the church.
5. The Harvest Is Young—and Plentiful
Jesus said the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few (Luke 10:2). That includes the harvest among children.
If we wait until they’re adults, we’ll have missed the moment. But if we reach them now, we’ll be building a generation that walks with God from an early age—and carries the light into homes, schools, and cities.
Let the Children Come
Wherever God has placed you—in Albania, Canada, or beyond—don’t overlook the smallest in your midst. Jesus didn’t.
If you want to see revival, start with the children.
– Mark Cole, in Albania
