At the appointed time each, (Sunday, Wednesday etc.) you and your team gather the small sheep and then entertain, teach and inspire them. (We all firmly hope!) When it’s all over, the glue tubes are confiscated, parents’ questions have all been answered, the last child leaves, you give one another a high five. In many ministries, this is about all the interaction volunteers have with one another outside the classroom setting.
If this sounds like you and your team, take heart. It’s summer and time for fun with the crew that you depend on. Take some time off together, even if it’s just a few hours, to fellowship. No problem solving, no advice, no critique, just fun. These seven suggestions will help you grow a stronger, closer team.
- Go on a field trip to the Christian book store or outlet store. Don’t just separate at the door, walk together, sharing what items you have, what you’d like to have and what interests you. Encourage each other to try a new devotional book, you might even study one together!
- Host a volunteer barbecue. Whether it’s one or ten, saying “thank you” is the right thing to do. (And who doesn’t like barbecue?) Keep it simple and spend some time laughing and snacking together.
- Hang out at a Christian music festival. You can spring for the tickets!
- Harvest together at a local u-pick farm. This summer activity may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it’s symbolic of the good work you do together each week.
- Attend a kids’ ministry conference. Okay, so this is kind of like work but it’s so exciting to expose volunteers to a wider picture of ministry. Personally, I love the atmosphere at children’s ministry conferences; you won’t find a nicer bunch of people to network with.
- Take a walk in the park together. This summer activity is free, provides exercises and gives you a chance to encourage one another.
- Start a summer book club. Pick your favorite three Christian books and buy an extra copy for your volunteer. Lots of price clubs have books at a discount if you purchase several at a time.
While families and kids take off for summer activities, you should too. Take this opportunity to create wonderful, lasting memories with your team.