history

Reaching the children of New Zealand

Our history

Founded in the USA in 1937 by Rev. J. Ivin Overholtzer, a man to whom God gave a vision for boys and girls in need of the Saviour.

New Zealand CEF® was founded in 1951, and continues today with the same vision as Irvin Overholtzer. The history of CEF® in New Zealand has been compiled in a 50 years commemorative booklet which can be purchased from our National Office (contact details below).

Our purpose:

To evangelise boys and girls with the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and to establish (disciple) them in the Word of God and in the local church for Christian living.

CEF® cares about discipling children. Children must be established (discipled) in their Christian lives through the Word of God. They need to “grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ”.

CEF® cares about establishing children in Bible-believing churches. Evangelised children need to be in the local church where they can continue growing on a regular basis. In this way, CEF® serves the church and assists in the goal of church growth.

We have a 14 article statement of faith which sets out what we believe and why.

What we do:

Around the country we are involved in:

  • Good News Clubs®
  • A variety of neighbourhood groups reach children right where they live. These include:
    • Weekly or monthly clubs through the school year
    • 6-week short term clubs (or 6 weeks each school term)
    • One time Party Clubs – Christmas, Easter or others
  • 5 Day Clubs®

Normally held over the school holidays on 5 consecutive days.

  • Good News Camps

Each year over 700 children attend CEF Good News Camps. Young people are trained in leadership as they participate in camp programmes. Many children come to Christ and others are encouraged in their walk with Jesus.

  • Tel-A-Story®, a phone in story line

Over 200,000 calls each year reach children throughout the country. This has now moved to be based from our web site.

  • Tel-A-Story clubs

Training for all those involved in children’s work, and those who wish to be

  • 10 hour ‘Super Seminars’.
  • 30 hour certificate courses ‘Teaching Children Effectively’TM.
  • CYIA® – Christian Youth In Action®, a programme targeted at youth and young adults teaching them to reach children for Christ.
  • Three month Children’s Ministries Institute®

Through course practice sessions children often come to Christ.

  • Resourcing children’s workers and ministries

CEF® materials are known for their fine teaching content and attractive visuals. Songs, Bible lessons and training books are available.

CEF International information click here