History & Mission

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History

Child Evangelism Fellowship® is a Bible-centered, worldwide organization composed of born-again believers whose purpose is to evangelize boys and girls with the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, disciple them in the Word of God and establish them in a Bible believing church for Christian living.

CEF has different types of evangelistic programs, but the two most identified with the organization are 5-Day Clubs® and Good News Clubs®. These two exciting ministries take place in neighborhood settings such as homes, backyards, schools and community centers all over the world. These fast-paced, one-hour programs are designed to bring the Gospel of Christ to children on their level in their environment.

Founded by J. Irvin Overholtzer, in existence since 1937, Child Evangelism Fellowship has been bringing the love of Jesus Christ to children throughout the world. Jesus placed the highest priority on children, often citing how they are near to God's heart. God's love and concern for children is unchanged today. Without the foundation of a relationship with God and being educated in Biblical principles for life, they will remain unequipped to face the hazards which life throws at them.

Mr. Overholtzer read one of Charles Spurgeon's sermons which stated, "A child of five, if properly instructed can as truly believe and be regenerated as an adult." The Lord used this statement in Mr. O's life to lead him to begin the ministry of Child Evangelism Fellowship when he was 60 years old. The ministry has grown into the largest evangelistic outreach to children in the world. CEF is currently ministering in over 160 countries and in every state in the U.S.

Mission

Primarily through volunteer leaders, organizers and youth workers, Child Evangelism Fellowship of Connecticut is committed to reaching all of the children of Connecticut with Jesus' message of hope, forgiveness and strength to resist the trials and temptations that face us all.

By establishing their relationship with God, discipling them in His Word and establishing them into a Bible teaching church, we strive to magnify their lives by helping them become mature in their faith.