On Time for Go Time

In a fast-paced, growing church there are few things more important than timing. It is crucial that people are punctual in order for services to run as smooth as possible and to bring the most honor and glory to the Lord. In Kids Ministry this is no different. Many things happen behind the scenes before the first child enters a room on Sunday morning. Here at VFC, we ask our Service Squad Leaders and Lead Teachers to arrive 1 hour and 15 minutes before service begins. At this time, the SQL's lead the LT's in what we call a huddle meeting. In this meeting any announcements or changes relative to service are shared and then together as a team they share praises and prayer requests. After things are shared, the group prays for and over the service and each one of the kids that will walk in the door that morning. Once they are prayed up, the LT's are dismissed to their classrooms.

Kids Ministry volunteers at VFC are asked to arrive 45 minutes prior to the start of service. At this time the Lead Teacher leads a huddle of their own with their classroom volunteers. Updates are given as well as assignments for the day. Praises and prayer requests are shared and again the classroom and the kids that will attend are prayed over and for. It is so important when working with kids to have your spiritual tank full. There is nothing that accomplishes this quite like prayer.

When people are not prompt and these prayers don't take place, there is a noticeable difference in the classroom. Prayer is where the power lies and the ministry begins. For the best ministry to take place, be sure everyone is present, on-time and praying; pray and pray some more. You will be amazed the difference it makes and the ministry that can then take place for all ages.

- Shon

What's a Teen Worth

One of the greatest things that I have seen in working with kids ministry volunteers is the undeniable value of teen volunteers. There is something about the passion they have and seeing their own Christian life being walked out and glorifying the Lord. 1 Timothy 4:12 says “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” Our teenage volunteers at Valley Family Church do exactly that. They get down on the level of the kids they are serving and meet them where they are. They get in the game and are certainly not spectators. The let their love of the Lord shine through all of the things they do. I would go as far as to say some of the greatest volunteers and even leaders in Kids Ministry here at VFC are teens. Their hearts are right and they "get it!" In return they help the kids to get it! If you are not using teens you certainly need to tap into this priceless resource. You won’t regret it!

-Shon