HAVE YOU EVER HEARD THAT CHILDREN learn what they live? Youngsters often duplicate the traditions, habits, and beliefs learned during childhood, which is why FEBC strives to offer wholesome programming for children. If young people commit their lives to Christ during childhood, they are much more likely to continue their faith throughout adulthood. FEBC-Russian Ministries recognized this truth and began airing children’s programs in the 1970s. One program, Morning of Life, is so popular that several secular radio stations air it for free, and teachers play it in classrooms. Thousands of responses arrive each year: “A week ago I turned 13 so I guess I’m not a kid anymore, but I truly enjoy listening to your programs. Our family moved to a small town and there are many children here who listen to your broadcasts. There were only 2 believers when we came, and now there are more than 50. For many of them your programs are the best way to understand the gospel. I will always love you.” - Zina
The 4 Russian broadcasters responsible for children’s programming are dedicated to their audience. They not only invest a great deal of time preparing the programs, they also respond to hundreds of letters and phone calls from children. Broadcaster Anna Pchelintseva recently spoke with a listener several times, and learned that the child did not come from a Christian home. Eventually Anna had a chance to speak to the girl’s father. He explained that he and his wife had recently begun listening to FEBC programs along with their daughter. “I feel like a child,” he said, “opening up a new world.”
Anna has reached a number of families through her children’s broadcasts. A Russian prisoner committed his heart to the Lord after listening to her program. Anna’s explanation of salvation was simple enough that the prisoner was able to respond to the invitation to know Christ.
FEBC-Philippines has been touching the hearts of children for over 40 years with stories that teach them how to be good friends and neighbors, as well as accounts of Jesus’ life. Parents frequently contact the stations to let them know how much the programs mean to their children. “My kids are excited when they hear your program; they sing along with your program jingle and they love all the songs you play.”
In Mongolia a program called Talkback is geared towards teens who call in to talk to their peers about a particular concern. At other times the program hosts a Q&A to see who can answer a trivia question to win a prize donated by a local sponsor. “It’s so interesting that even adults like to listen,” shared an FEBC-Mongolia staff member. “And that’s good because most of our listeners are non-Christian.”
The children’s programs at FEBC-Korea are so popular that one girl asked her mother to record a program for a week while she was away visiting her grandparents. Another mother wrote to say that her husband began listening to FEBC when their daughter sang in a musical program on an FEBC program. Though he’s not a believer, she hopes the broadcasts will soften his heart.
In Indonesia, the weekly Dreaming Home for Children program features a morality concept taken from the Bible. First it’s dramatized on the air, and later the host opens it up for discussion. Children ages 6-13 call in and share their thoughts with the FEBC broadcaster.
FEBC has heard from many adults through the years who have expressed appreciation for our youth-oriented broadcasts. Sunday School teachers often use our broadcast material, and parents are grateful for the lively and creative programs that teach their children about Jesus.
And what do the children think? Eleven-year old Sveta from Russia had this to say to one of our broadcasters: “Aunt Ludmila, you are a part of my family. I listen to you always. My friends and I especially love your stories.” And when children eagerly tune in to hear stories, they will ultimately hear the greatest story ever told. |
