This year, we celebrate a truly special milestone - 50 years of Sunbeam Preschool.
Fifty years ago, Lydia Dove and her husband Don stepped out in faith and love to create something meaningful for the children of this church and community. Don helped construct the classroom while Lydia poured her heart into every detail - planning, painting, designing, choosing toys, creating activity centers, and developing curriculum. What began as Sunbeam Nursery School was more than just a classroom, it was a place intentionally shaped to nurture young, impressionable lives.
What makes this anniversary especially meaningful to me is that Sunbeam is not just a ministry I now lead - it’s one that I was once a part of. In fact, 40 years ago, one of those little lives was mine. While I don’t have specific memories to share, I know the impact it had. From a young age, I felt drawn to working with children - through babysitting, serving in the nursery, and volunteering. Looking back, I can see how those early experiences shaped that passion.
Thirteen years ago, I received a call from Cheryl, the director at the time, asking if I would consider stepping into the role. As a mom of a 5 and 3-year-old at the time, I had no plans to return to work and initially said no. But over the weeks that followed, I felt a gentle prompting from the Lord - that perhaps He had something more in store for me.
And as is so often the case, God’s plans were better than my own.
It has been a privilege to carry on the legacy Lydia began. Ten years ago, we expanded to include a childcare program, and today Sunbeam serves over 100 families each year. With a team of 12 incredible staff, along with the many who have served over the years, we continue to provide a place of care, learning, and community.
For 50 years, Sunbeam has been a safe and nurturing place where children begin their learning journey. More importantly, it is a place where seeds of faith are planted, where children hear that they are loved by God and that He is always with them. As a ministry of Christian Life Assembly, Sunbeam has had approximately 60 staff serve over 4,000 children - an incredible legacy. Thank you for supporting this ministry through the years, we have not been able to do this alone.
My prayer is that long after children leave our classrooms, those truths remain in their hearts - that in the moments they need it most, they will remember they have a Father in heaven who loves them.
It is truly an honor to have been part of Sunbeam for the past 13 years and to continue this 50-year legacy. I am so grateful for all that God has done and excited for what is still to come.
