On Saturday 8 August, we had such a wonderful day as around 155 people from across our network came together to learn more about what it means to do ministry to and with young people.
Adam Jolliffe kicked us off with Psalm 78, speaking about our responsibility to share God’s works with the next generation and reminding us that even little ones can speak God’s praises. With that foundation in mind, our first round of seminars began, with people attending a variety of sessions on kids’ ministry, youth ministry and safe ministry.
Morning tea followed, catered by the West Oak Hotel – and wow, it was incredible. There was a selection of cold meats, cheeses and olives, followed by a large range of sweet treats. You had to be quick to get the good stuff! I enjoyed the various pastries and cheeses but missed out on the doughnuts. Next time! 🙂
After morning tea, we moved into our second round of seminars, which offered even more choices. From mission and puppetry to ministry among under-fives, different aspects of kids’ and youth ministry, and innovation in youth ministry – there was a lot to choose from!
By lunchtime, we were ready for café-style sandwiches with a variety of fillings. It felt like the kind of lunch you would pick up from a good deli – and it was really nice. It also gave us another opportunity to spend time with others from across the network before gathering with our own ministry teams for the afternoon.
Together, our teams thought about how we could apply what we had learned within our specific ministry contexts. The way ministry is done varies slightly across our churches, so having dedicated time to reflect together was really helpful.
Here are some of the highlights shared by those who attended:
This was my first time coming and I really enjoyed it. I would love to see more of our kids’ ministry leaders coming along.
I loved having the opportunity for my team to be trained by experts. The content completely changed how I look at youth ministry. We have so much to talk about now as ministry teams, and plenty to share with those who couldn’t make it this year.
Change priorities in kids’ ministry to focus more on relationship-building with the children and modelling a gospel-shaped life by loving them, showing God’s grace and apologising when you need to, rather than just trying to get through the program.
I left the training day feeling refreshed, encouraged and inspired to continue serving God and supporting children and young people.
It was so wonderful to gather together, be inspired and talk with others about the ministry we are all involved in: sharing the good news with young people so that they may know Jesus more.