The Power of Prayer in Education
When Jacob Magin first stepped onto the campus of Oceanside Adventist Elementary (OAE) as a second grader, he had no idea what to expect. Coming straight from public school, he was met with unfamiliar traditions, such as group prayer and chapel services.
Now, having just graduated from eighth grade, Jacob looks back on that first day with amazement at how far he’s come. He recalls being puzzled on his first day in second grade as his classmates bowed their heads in unison while the teacher spoke aloud to someone unseen. To him, it felt like a strange ritual—one he didn’t yet understand.
As that first week continued, Magin noticed how central prayer was to daily life at his new school. Whether before lunch or at dismissal, every moment seemed to begin with a quiet reflection. It wasn’t until a Friday chapel service, surrounded by the entire school community in worship, that something began to shift for him. Seeing an entire room filled with students, teachers, and staff united in joyful song and reverent prayer left a lasting impression. For the first time, Magin tried bowing his head too.
Over time, that sense of confusion turned into curiosity—and eventually, conviction. Years later, the same boy who had once questioned why people prayed now stood on that very chapel stage as a leader. He sang songs, led motions, announced programs, and, most importantly, prayed—not out of routine, but from the heart. “Prayer to me is a place to invite God into our lives every day,” he reflected. “I am thankful for my teachers here at OAE for helping me understand more about God and especially about prayer.”
Magin’s story is more than a story of growth. It is a testimony to the lasting impact of Adventist education. In a setting where faith is interwoven with learning, Magin found not only academic knowledge but also spiritual understanding, personal growth, and a deeper connection with God. His journey from outsider to spiritual leader illustrates why Adventist schools matter: they nurture the whole child—mind, body, and soul—and create space for students to discover their faith at their own pace.
In his testimony, Magin’s “new adventure,” as he described it, proves anyone can start a relationship with God.
By Jordyn Wright
kids konnect
“What Am I Good At?”
Grace sat quietly during Sabbath School while the teacher talked about spiritual gifts. “God gives each of us special gifts to serve others,” Miss Elena said. “Some people sing. Others fix things. Some are great encouragers!” Grace looked down at her hands. I’m not good at singing, she thought. I’m not good at talking in front of people, either. Do I even have a gift?
Later that day, during potluck, Grace noticed Mr. Thomas struggling to carry his tray with his cane. Without thinking, she ran over. “Can I help?” she asked, carefully guiding him to his seat. He smiled. “You have a gift for noticing people. That’s rare.”
That night, Grace asked her mom, “Is helping people a spiritual gift?” Her mom hugged her. “Yes! The Bible calls it service. It’s one of the most beautiful gifts.” The next Sabbath, Grace made it her mission to help wherever she could—refilling water cups, passing out hymnals, and smiling at lonely faces.
Grace knew she didn’t sing solos but that spiritual gifts come in many forms. Whether big or small, your gift is God’s way of loving others through you.
By Jordyn Wright
