We surveyed 400 children’s ministry leaders and analyzed the latest research. Here’s what we learned. Jesus loves the little ones – that’s why we love to serve in children’s ministry. Every person (no matter their age) was created to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It’s the most pressing need in this life. It’s … Read more
Does a Sunday school require a quorum? There are some churches out there that require golf carts to move through parking lots, tags and intercoms for childcare, and separate staff just to organize coffee fellowship. These are the congregations with fog machines, headliner worship bands, and personalized latte brands. However, not all bodies of believers … Read more
Children’s church or big church? That is the question many parents are asking lately. When I began in ministry, back in 1997, (oh my!) children’s churches weren’t wildly popular in my area but over the years, the trend has caught on. Now I am happy to report we have some amazing ministries that reach children of … Read more
Children’s pastors are like magical unicorns, strange creatures that are largely misunderstood — that is if you believe the myths about children’s pastors. Having been involved in children’s ministry for over 20 years I can assure you that I have heard just about everything. I am not offended by what I have heard just amused … Read more
Congratulations and welcome to ministry! I’m sure you know quite a lot about children’s ministry already but it can’t hurt to hear a few tips. I have been working with children for almost 20 years and I can assure you that is a satisfying and rewarding occupation. Children love the Lord and they love those … Read more
Like the adult church, you have to lead kids through the good times and the bad. Tragedies like the death of a church member or the divorce of a prominent couple weigh heavily on everyone, even the smallest members of the church. Leaving all the consoling to the senior pastor or families equates to denying … Read more
Children love freely with complete abandon and without thought for tomorrow – so do many children’s ministers. How can you avoid caring for the ones God cares for? Watching children grow in God, seeing the light come on during a lesson; these things make us love our kids even more. I know how it feels; … Read more
Starting in a new job is intimidating anyway, but a new job in a new church with new people can be overwhelming. There are things that you can do right away that can set you up for success in ministry. There are also things that you can do that can get your ministry set off … Read more
It’s been a few years, but I still remember the first time I read this encouraging poem about children’s ministry. It came in an email to me from a friend. It really spoke to me about the struggles and joys of being a kids pastor. Later I learned that poem was written by Roger Fields of Kidz Blitz ministries. … Read more
I do not work in the preschool ministry at my church. My time and efforts are geared towards kids kindergarten and above. That said, we do have a great team who does handle the nursery and preschool ages. I know that because my kids have been through the program and I have seen the fruits … Read more