The WallBuilders Show Faith on Base: Ministering to Military Children - with Andy Bunn
Child Evangelism Fellowship stands as a remarkable yet often unheralded force in faith-based outreach, serving 20 million children annually across 192 countries worldwide. Founded in 1937, this organization has grown to employ over 2,000 staff members globally while maintaining a steadfast commitment to sharing biblical teachings with young people.
The WallBuilders team discovers a particularly compelling aspect of CEF's work: their Military Children's Ministry. This specialized program addresses the unique challenges faced by military families, whose children navigate frequent relocations, parental deployments, and the constant uncertainty of military life. Through partnerships with base chaplains, CEF brings stability and spiritual grounding to these young people at approximately 30 military installations across the United States.
Their approach combines three distinctive program models tailored to military community needs. "Party Clubs" offer holiday-themed events with games, snacks and biblical lessons. Weekly "Good News Clubs" provide consistent after-school gatherings throughout the academic year. Summer "Five-Day Clubs" function similarly to vacation Bible schools, often led by teenagers who previously participated in the programs themselves – creating a beautiful cycle of discipleship and leadership development.
What makes this ministry particularly powerful is how it creates immediate connection points for families transitioning between bases. When military children find familiar faith-based programs at their new location, it provides a sense of continuity and belonging during otherwise turbulent transitions. The organization's careful coordination with military chaplains ensures proper authorization while meeting the specific needs of each base community.
Military families seeking support for their children can easily connect with existing programs or even help establish new ones by contacting their base chaplain or visiting cefonline.com . As we observe Military Appreciation Month this May, this ministry reminds us that supporting our military extends beyond thanking service members – it includes caring for the children who also sacrifice for our freedom. Ready to help military kids find stability through faith? Learn how you can get involved today.