SERVING = GROWING - reminders about this quarter and serving.

This quarter there are a lot of growth opportunities for members of EBC.

I found this quote in one of my journals and thought it was very appropriate for where we are right now in the children's ministry.

"The church must provide relational opportunities for congregants, matching those who need to grow with individuals and ministries that facilitate growth.  Because serving people is such a crucial dimension of spiritual maturity, churches help people grow by giving them opportunities to meet the needs of others."

Read that again, service opportunities are growth opportunities.
 Check out the church blog for more about this quote (blog.emmanuelbaptist.com)

I want to share a couple of things with you regarding children's ministry.

1. Prayer:  Please be praying for the ministries of the church, especially the children's ministry.
2. Ministry serving time:  While Andrea and I would love to have people serve for 13 weeks, we have given people opportunities to serve for shorter periods.  While most of the feedback I have received from teachers has been positive, others have expressed some concern.  As you read through the following reasons, please know that there are positives and negatives to every approach.  Let me remind you why we would like to have people serve for the quarter.
1.  For the teachers:  With the two service format, it allows you to attend a full class for a quarter without missing 1/3 or 2/3 of the quarter.
2. For the children:  It provides a more consistent environment for the children in the class rooms.
3. For the parents:  We have been talking about helping parents disciple their children.  The quarterly set up provides better opportunities to connect with parents.
4. For leaders:  Instead of making sure teachers are in place and resources are distributed each month (12 times a year), transitions are only 4 times a year.  
   
3. Inviting others to serve:  I want to remind you to be encouraging and inviting others to serve alongside you or with another class.  Two real practical things to remember about inviting others.  
1. CTP forms are available online @  www.emmanuelbaptist.com/children
2. All teachers need to attend one of the upcoming teacher meetings (September 22 or 24).  You can invite someone to attend one of these meetings to find out more about the children's ministry. 

Thank you for your service and know that if you have any questions, concerns or blessings, please let me know!

Thanks!
Pastor Dave