We all want to reach more children, but are we prepared if they come?
I once shared a vision of growing about 25% to our Awana leaders. I was met with dismay, how could we grow that much in one year?
Awana has a component in their materials for children to bring a friend. I shared that about 25% was 3 children.
On the other end of the spectrum, my youth leaders wanted to plan a big overnight event inviting many youth. Their thought was that it could generate interest and increase the youth attending exponentially. It was mainly an event for fun and so it could draw, and did draw, many. I asked them how we would accommodate this great growth that they hoped for when we only had two leaders and they were currently meeting in the lobby of the YMCA.
We should always be seeking growth… in the number of people attending, as well as the spiritual growth of those currently attending.
In regard to numerical growth, Jim Wideman has a great resource entitled Stretch. He helps you see how to plan your staffing, your space and whatever you may need to prepare for growth. In our ministry, we cannot be focused just on the numbers we have. We need to be prepared for that new family who visits which may increase our ministry by 25% or more. We want children to bring friends. Are you prepared, or are you just trying to maintain the structure that you have in place now.
Some basic things to do now:
- Have a few extra chairs set up
It may seem like a small thing, but what message does it send when a new child arrives and their is no place for them to sit and you have to go find a chair for them. - Make a plan if you need more space
You may not need it yet, but what would you do if you need to split the group into two areas, or rooms because of growth. - Pray
While we often list this last, it should be first. James 1:5 says that if any of us lacks wisdom that we should ask for it. Each situation is different. Seek God’s wisdom to address your unique situation.
In my small church kidmin, I always planned for growth. It often wasn’t preparing for enormous growth, but for a small steady growth.
Small steps can take you on a great journey. I encourage you to plan for that one more who may show up in your ministry.
