I’m pretty sure most people expect to find a giant rubber ball, parachute or costumes on my list but alas, those items didn’t make the cut. (Although we do love toys/props/unique tools for ministry!) As a children’s minister I can’t help but get creative—I work with kids but there are some things I actually do need. As a children’s ministry … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Think a good greeting program isn’t necessary for children’s church? Think again! When we don’t greet kids as they come in, we miss making a valuable connection for two reasons. First, the greeting is where you establish discipline. That’s so important to do right at the beginning of each session. Kids need to know someone is in charge. Second, we … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Back in December, I wrote a post called, What to Do When the Children You Teach Don’t Respect You. The post got quite a bit of comments and many of you had something to say about respect. Some of you had great experiences, no problems at all. Some of you no–not so much. Respect is a problem but we don’t … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This free Bible lesson is based on Mark 9:2-9 when Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John. It is designed for children’s church or Sunday School. Please modify as best fits your ministry. If your church follows the Revised Common Lectionary, this teaching plan would correspond to Year B – Transfiguration Sunday, Gospel Reading – Mark 9:2-9. Opening Activity – … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Is your church holding a New Year’s eve event? If you answered yes, you have been challenged to provide some of the activities for the kiddos while parents wait for the clock to move. Been there–done that! Even if you aren’t facing the challenge of entertaining kids for a long period of time, you might find this kids’ church idea … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This free Bible lesson is based on Matthew 25:14-30 where Jesus tells ‘The Parable of the Talents”. It is designed for children’s church or Sunday School. Please modify as best fits your ministry. If your church follows the Revised Common Lectionary, this teaching plan would correspond to Year A – 23rd Sunday After Pentecost, Gospel Reading – Matthew 25:14-30. Opening Activity – Well … More Children’s Ministry Resources
The book of John is perhaps my favorite New Testament book. As my first adult Sunday School teacher used to tell us, “John is the love book.” Almost every chapter reveals the great love that Jesus had for the disciples, the people who ministered to and to everyone who believes in him today. Teach children about the Good Shepherd and … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This free Bible lesson is based on Matthew 25:1-13 where Jesus tells ‘The Parable of the Ten Virgins”. It is designed for children’s church or Sunday School. Please modify as best fits your ministry. If your church follows the Revised Common Lectionary, this teaching plan would correspond to Year A – 22nd Sunday After Pentecost, Gospel Reading – Matthew 25:1-13. Opening Activity – … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Although we read and use many verses from the great book of Isaiah, many children (and even adults) are not quite aware of the concepts of this great prophet—or any prophet for that matter. This lesson provides some information on the purpose and work of Old Testament prophets, and in particular highlights Isaiah and his special mission for God. Lesson … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This free Bible lesson is based on Matthew 22:34-46 where Jesus teaches about “The Greatest Commandment.” It is designed for children’s church or Sunday School. Please modify as best fits your ministry. If your church follows the Revised Common Lectionary, this teaching plan would correspond to Year A – 20th Sunday After Pentecost, Gospel Reading – Matthew 22:34-46. Opening Activity – All About Love … More Children’s Ministry Resources
What can’t you say with an emoticon? I do love a smiley face, as anyone who texts me or sends me a message via Facebook well knows. (Sorry all my friends.) Recently, I was wracking my brain in search of an object lesson I could use to illustrate that God has feelings. Unlike their taller counterparts, kids are in touch … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This free Bible lesson is based on Matthew 22:1-14 where Jesus tells the parable of the ‘Wedding Banquet”. It is designed for children’s church or Sunday School. Please modify as best fits your ministry. If your church follows the Revised Common Lectionary, this teaching plan would correspond to Year A – 18th Sunday After Pentecost, Gospel Reading – Matthew 22:1-14 Opening Activity – You’re … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Working in Christian ministry is unlike any other career choice. Working in a store, serving food or working at a desk job, rarely demands the level of service of ministry requires; children’s ministry insists that you leave little bits of your heart behind. (For the record, I’ve done all these jobs and proudly so!) Pastors give of themselves and often … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This free Bible lesson is based on Jesus’ parable of the wise & foolish builders. Use it in your children’s church or Sunday School to help children build their life upon Jesus Christ. He is the “rock” that can withstand any storm. Lesson Focus: A life built on a firm foundation of faith will survive trials and tests. Bible Passages: … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Congratulations, new children’s pastor! The local church needs you and decided that you were the perfect match for their kids. Before you take the reins and hold your first service, make sure you do these six things. It is important to assess the current status of the ministry before you plan your next kids’ crusade or event; this checklist will … More Children’s Ministry Resources
You walk to the door carrying your most treasured possession–your child. You’ve decided to give the nursery a try. You want your little one to receive ministry at his level and you can’t wait to soak in the church worship service—it’s been a long week! However, when you open the door (that you have a hard time finding) you aren’t … More Children’s Ministry Resources
It’s back to school and that means back to church for many ministries. If you had the summer off or part of the summer off and want to start back with a bang, you need to try these awesome welcome back events. Create some excitement in your ministry that will last for months. Attract new kids and families with welcome … More Children’s Ministry Resources
When we get caught doing something wrong, it’s natural to feel embarrassed and even truly sorry. However, we can get stuck in a rut of saying “I’m sorry” but not actually changing anything. The bible tells us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 … More Children’s Ministry Resources
When I penned my recent article, 10 Things That Drive a Children’s Pastor Crazy I had no idea that I’d be starting such an expansive conversation. However, I am glad we can talk and share with one another and hopefully, encourage a children’s pastor who may be asking, “Does anyone understand?” To those passing by these posts and subsequent comments, … More Children’s Ministry Resources
When praying about my ministry, I can’t help but reflect upon my blessings. I have such faithful volunteers; without their help, children’s church would be a whole lot crazier. However, during busy times, it’s easy to see my team get stressed out and me too! I must confess that I rarely have difficulty with volunteers but when problems do arise … More Children’s Ministry Resources
“Do you hear what these children are saying?” they asked him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read, “‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise’?” (Matthew 21:16) What great news to know that God is “calling forth” praise from little ones! As children’s ministry leaders, it is our job to guide these precious … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Being a children’s pastor for eighteen years has brought so much joy into my life! From the glue sticks to the creased Bibles to the beach balls, I love every aspect of ministering to kids. It has been a blessing to teach hundreds and thousands of kids about Jesus. However, there are some things that drive me crazy. When I … More Children’s Ministry Resources
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7; NIV) That’s a powerful statement by Paul and one that has inspired generations to keep up the fight. If you’ve decided to present this verse to your children’s church or Sunday School class, include these finishing the race object lessons in … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Children’s ministry leaders are unequivocally some of the most creative folks on the planet but even this elite group can get stuck in a rut. Truth be known, I’ve been stuck in a routine myself more than a few times. I’ve experienced the agony of unenthusiastic volunteers, uncommitted families and no clear direction. Don’t beat yourself up. It happens regardless … More Children’s Ministry Resources