Gaining a deeper understanding of the Bible can be life-changing–and SAT-7 KIDS viewers are now witnessing this on-screen while playing along with a new gameshow. Creating an atmosphere of excitement, healthy competition, and laughter, the Challenge Accepted helps young viewers grow in faith as they play along with the participants.
“We hope to help children and young teens to know and deeply understand their identity in Christ. Then, as a reflection of this, to realize the important place they each have in their communities and how they can contribute to building their society’s future,” says Andrea El-Mounayer, SAT-7 KIDS Manager.
Pitting two teams of four participants against one another, Challenge Accepted creates a dynamic, engaging learning environment. With each episode set in a different biblical location, fun, rapid-fire questions about the Bible and its historical context are combined with creative problem-solving activities. As the participants explore their faith and learn how to work as a team, taking part in the program has been having a profound effect on them.
“Some of our participants come from difficult backgrounds, but on the program, they are safe and relaxed, building new friendships and growing together,” shares Andrea. “The program has been a turning point for some of the young people, giving them hope for the future by building them up,” explains Andrea.
For example, Thalia was very shy before she took part in the first season of Challenge Accepted. But by learning about who she is in Christ and taking part in challenges, she grew in confidence and began expressing her thoughts without fear of judgment. Oliver had never experienced teamwork before, but by playing the games, he discovered new strengths in learning and memorizing and how to contribute these to his team.
The participants not only model personal growth for the viewers at home but also how to live out their faith in a community. “The young people began to recognize the potential of each team member,” adds Petra Charabaty, producer of the program. “They realized that good communication and accepting the other are precious values and acts of godly love. They began to understand the importance of listening to one another, to make their voices heard, and to appreciate their differences.”
Inspired by the first season of the program, viewer Khalil commented: “Because I didn’t know God when I was young, I am now taking advantage of Challenge Accepted and watching all the episodes on SAT-7 KIDS.”
As viewers watch or play along at home, they can learn that God loves them, and grow in biblical knowledge, faith, and positive values. The knowledge and strength they gain is much needed as families across the Middle East and North Africa face extremely challenging economic times and increased stress.
The second season of Challenge Accepted is now being produced. “It will be even more exciting than the first,” says Rawad Daou, the program’s director. “We hope that viewers will be inspired and empowered to become the changemakers of the future.”
Prayer Points
- For viewers, that they will learn about God’s Word and draw much blessing and strength from it.
- For families, they that they will be equipped and supported to cope with the new challenges they face.
- For all those working on Challenge Accepted, that God will continue to bless them and guide them in producing content that will encourage young viewers.
Photo caption: Presenters Shadi Tarzi and Christina Issa with participants on the set of Challenge Accepted
