Blueprint: Children’s Ministry
The following blog was written using responses by Ashley Eveland, our Director of Children’s Ministry
Planting Seeds of Faith in the Next Generation
I’m so excited for the new ministry year! This means continuing to help children build a strong foundation of faith in Jesus while creating a place where they genuinely love coming each week. Our prayer is that every child feels known, loved, and safe as they learn about Jesus.
A new ministry year means Move Up Sunday – our kids move to their new classes in OKids Nursery and a new group of 1st graders and new team of Backstagers in OKids Worship!
As leaders, we have the privilege of planting seeds and faithfully leading our kids, and then watching how God works in their lives. God always does amazing things and I absolutely love watching our kids grow every year!
Growing in Faith Together
My prayer is that each child would grow in their knowledge of who Jesus is, learn what it is to trust Him, and know that they are loved by God and by our church family.
I’m praying God would continue to raise up a team of volunteers who are ready and committed to faithfully invest in the next generation. I also hope to see God strengthen our partnership with parents as they disciple their children at home.
Seeing God at Work in Our Kids
I always tell parents I wish I could walk around with a camera on my shoulder so they could see what I see during OKids Worship! I find myself getting emotional when I watch kids really worshipping, or having the “light bulb” moment of understanding something.
Last year, we started the OKids Mailbox where kids can submit a prayer request or ask a “God question” they are afraid to ask out loud. This has been a super special way to get a glimpse into what our kids are facing, what questions they are asking, and how they feel about God.
It’s spurred conversations, prayers, and laughter. I can’t wait to see what pops up in the mailbox this year!
Find Your Place in OKids
One of the biggest opportunities this year is for people to get involved and serve in Children’s Ministry.
Become a committed leader – whether that’s a small group leader in OKids Worship or a leader in OKids Nursery or OKids Jr, we need committed leaders!
Become a committed helper – helping is just as important as leading! We need people who are willing to help our leaders invite every kid into the life changing story of Jesus.
This year, we’re inviting people to find your place in OKids – whether that’s serving on our volunteer team or bringing your kids to experience a fun, safe and Christ-centered environment each Sunday!
