As I wrote in a previous post, I was able to attend the Children’s Pastors Conference (CPC) in Orlando. I was a coach during the coaching sessions on the first day, and on Wednesday, I participated as part of a panel to talk about children’s ministry in a small church to encourage those in attendance. You can listen to a podcast of that session here.
I also walked through the resource center speaking with vendors about small church kidmin and to see how they might be able to help those serving in a small church. I made several connections and I found that most truly care for those serving in small churches and are willing to assist as they are able. They realize that the available funds for small churches may be small or non-existent. Some curriculum providers, like KMC Curriculum (I personally know the developer), offers scholarships for small churches with little or no budgets and she asks that you complete a form with basic information to help her understand your need. I personally received a 25% discount from a vendor because we are in a small church situation and they desire to help small churches. Sometimes you may need to ask, others may make it easier to ask with a form for scholarships, etc.
Ultimately, our budgets may not allow us to use resources that we would like to utilize, but I encourage you to ask if you find something that would be an asset to your ministry. I would also encourage you not to take advantage of the various resource providers. Some may offer a discount to help you, but as you grow and finances may be more available, then please purchase the resource at full price. That allows them to continue to produce resources and then help other small churches who can use the assistance.
I am looking for additional ways to connect with resource providers to help encourage, support, and provide resources for you as you serve in a small church.
Please comment below with what resources you may be looking for, and what topics you would like discussed, or addressed, in future posts or podcasts. We want to be here for you.
