Transforming Ministry To Children

"It will take a transformation of our minds, hearts and structures if ministry to children is going to be transformed. This section looks at the transformation that can take place within the church setting."

It will take a transformation of our minds, hearts, and structures if ministry to children is going to be transformed. This section looks at the transformation that can take place within the church setting. The following will give you some idea of how and where to start.
 
As transitioning begins to take place, it is essential to have an overview of potential for children and to understand the part that each generation is called to play according to the Word of God. We need to understand God's "job description" for the youngest generation, for this will help us to understand how to equip them. This is most clearly heard as the prophetic voice all over the world (see our book Reconnecting the Generations).

Each church will strategize according to their own vision, but the following might help to create pieces of 'the big picture'.

Initially, and as an ongoing process, there needs to be:

Good Preparation:
Good preparation by the senior leader, and as many of the church leaders as possible, through conferences, reading, consulting, training, and seeking the heart of God for His children.

A clear understanding by the whole church:
It is essential that every member of the body of Christ has a clear understanding of the heart of God towards children and young people. This challenge is for everyone to understand how serious God is about raising the next generation of children and young people. This will start to create a culture in the church rather than implemented structures (see our book Reconnecting the Generations).

A review of the policies:
A review of Church policies by the senior leadership is essential so that the place of children is clearly written and understood by everyone - especially in relation to baptism, communion, child protection, vision statements, and goals (see our books What Shall We Do With the Children?, When a Child Asks to Be Baptized, and When A Child Asks to Take Communion).

Strategic on-going prayer:
Strategic on-going prayer for children, young people, and their families is essential. This needs to be an integrated part of the prayer life of the church.

Strategies can include:

The large Celebration Experience ('Big Wing')
This might be with the adults, or in a separate Children's Celebration.

The Small Group Experience ('Small Wing')

1. Children's small groups: These are where children minister to each other, and can be raised into peer leadership. This is often initially through the transitioning of the children's ministry, but with the view of sending the children into their schools, homes, and streets with a model that they can use to win and disciple their friends for Jesus. Children's small groups are also excellent preparation for children who may go into small groups with their parents.
2. Intergenerational Small Groups: These are small groups where the generations (including children) can live as a community of believers reaching out to the lost. Here children learn through the modeling of adults, by remaining within their own family context and being an integrated part of the family of God. Together they love God, love each other, and love the lost.

(See Generational Transformation and Radical Discipleship)