What began as a simple idea—teaching children to pause, reflect, and pray—came to life in a powerful way during this year’s Spring Break Day Camp at Sandia Valley Church of the Nazarene. Built on the guiding principle “Gratitude is our new attitude,” the camp integrated a unique blend of emotional care, prayerful spiritual reflection, and community engagement, offering children not just activities, but a safe space to be heard and supported. 

At the heart of the initiative was a thoughtfully designed “Nurturing Space,” created in partnership with God’s Place (also known as God’s Palace by many of the children). This designated area allowed children to step away from the group when emotions became overwhelming—an approach rooted in the program’s broader emphasis on emotional coaching and moral integration.

Leaders reported feeling confident guiding children to the space when needed, where trained volunteers, including Danielle Rivas, engaged them in meaningful conversations. Through gentle questions centered on gratitude and prayer, children were encouraged to reflect on what mattered most in their lives and what they wished to share with God. The impact was immediate and profound.

“One child who had been running away from his group found peace and solace in the space,” a camp leader shared, describing a moment that underscored the program’s purpose: meeting children where they are emotionally and spiritually.

Another cornerstone of the camp was the interactive Gratitude Wall, a central feature of the broader ministry initiative. Designed as a “wall of words” reflecting faith and thankfulness, it invited children to share heartfelt expressions of gratitude—often transcribed by volunteers to preserve their voices. 

The messages revealed a deep sense of connection and appreciation. Children expressed gratitude for their families, their church, and their community. One particularly moving statement read: “I’m grateful and thankful for you, Danielle, and that I was able to take a break.”

According to program leaders, these moments reflect the deeper goals of the initiative: fostering a culture where gratitude and prayer become natural, daily practices—not just activities confined to church settings. The Spring Break Day Camp is part of a larger, year-round effort that includes leadership training in emotional coaching, family prayer journals, and ongoing engagement with the Gratitude and Prayer Wall. The initiative aims to strengthen both individual faith and community bonds, particularly among children ages 5–12 and their families.

For many involved, the most meaningful outcome was not just participation, but transformation.

“We were thankful for the opportunity to have this nurturing space,” one organizer reflected. “It allowed others to see the power of prayer and nurturing care in real time.”

As the program continues to grow, leaders hope its model—combining emotional awareness with spiritual guidance—can serve as a blueprint for other ministries seeking to support children holistically. In a week designed as a “break,” many children found something deeper: calm, connection, and a new language for gratitude

West Coast Churches interested in creating their own opportunities to create caring practices of prayer and worship can register for the next Nurturing Care Maker’s Space to be held at Point Loma Nazarene University May 28-30. Up to two members per church. Check out our invitation, then register while positions are available.