Promoting the Children's Program

You know that Sunday school is not just a program; its one of the avenues God uses to shape young disciples of Christ. You know that childhood is the most formative time in a person’s life—when most of us develop a spiritual and moral compass that guides us through the rest of our years. You know that kids need to build relationships with caring adults who will mentor them and model a life lived for Christ—But does your congregation know that?

The way you talk about your kid’s ministry will make a big difference in the attitudes of parents, leaders, and the kids in your ministry. Is it “just Sunday school—we’re looking for one more leader. You basically just show up and the book tells you what to do”? Or is it “a chance for you to share God’s stories with kids, help them develop a strong relationship with God, and walk with them as they take steps of faith!”

Help your church get excited about the ministry by developing a vision that highlights some of the key things your ministry is about. Talk with parents and church leaders about what kids should discover, experience, learn, explore, and express about God as they grow up in your church. Put your collective hopes into a concise statement that sums up the purpose and goals of your ministry.

If your children’s ministry has a vision statement, highlight it often! Put it front and center for parents and kids to see. In leaders meetings, encourage teachers to share stories of how they see kids growing in faith week by week. The more you value and talk about the important ministry that happens in Sunday school the more motivated your team and your congregation will be to reach out to every kid in your church and community!

For more ideas on developing a ministry vision and goals and promoting your Sunday school program check out Sunday School That Really Works by Jessie Schut.