*Written by Amy Van Putten from North Point Church in Plainwell, MI.
Are you someone who does not have a permanent church building? I have been unloading and reloading a trailer and running a ministry out of Rubbermaid tubs for 5 years. Mobile ministry has its challenges but if it’s what God has called you to do, it’s what you do.
10 Tips for Mobile Ministry
Below are a few things I have learned over the years. I hope any one of them helps and blesses you in some way. Please leave a comment to share your own insights about this type of ministry.
- Stick with the basics for supplies and materials. You’ll be amazed how much you can do without a lot of stuff.
- Be organized. Take inventory of what you do have so you’re not buying duplicate items b/c you can’t remember if it’s something you already have, or how much. Your things are packed in a trailer – you can’t go check!
- Color code your tubs by area of ministry (nursery, classrooms, etc…) so those unloading your things know where they go.
- Do not buy expensive furnishings or equipment. Being bumped around in a trailer weekly as well as being handled weekly causes your things to take quite the beating and have quicker wear and tear.
- Buy collapsible tables and fold up chairs for the little ones. Fold up camping chairs work great for adults.
- Ask for help. Many people do not realize how much work setting up church and a ministry is. By asking just once, they will understand and be more likely to continue helping in the future.
- In going along with #5, be patient with others. Like I said, they don’t understand how much work it really is.
- Be careful to not take advantage of your family. Ministry is a family thing in my house but they deserve a break just like anyone else.
- Starting to get frustrated and impatient waiting for a permanent home? Remember, God sees all your efforts and will bless you richly for it.
- Remember that because of all your hard work, children are coming to learn about Jesus and have a relationship with Him. That is the best motivation there is!
Share Your Ideas
If you serve in a mobile children’s ministry, we would love to hear your idea. Just leave a comment sharing what you’ve learned along the way. What advice would you give someone just starting this adventure?
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