RELEVANT CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

There is another generation coming behind us.  If we don't want to see the next generation drop the faith baton, then we must make sure we are handing it off properly.

Do you like watching the relay races during the Olympics?  One of the keys to winning the race is the baton hand off. The runners have a short window of time to pass the baton to the next runner.

The next generation has had several labels placed upon them, but the most popular is Gen Z.  There are over 73 million Gen Z kids in America and over 2 billion world-wide.  The age range varies from study to study, but the most common age range has Gen Z as people born between 1996-2010.

The generation that will follow Gen Z has been named the Alpha Generation. The Alpha Generation is comprised of children born from 2010 and counting.  Since it’s very early on for the Alpha Generation, let's talk exclusively about Gen Z today.

WE MUST LEAD WELL BY HELPING GEN Z KNOW JESUS.

Last weekend, I was consulting with a church and after the service, we went to a pizza place, where you make your own pizza.  Everyone went down the “assembly line” and picked out the items they wanted on their pizza.  Different kinds of sauces.  Meat or no meat?  What kind of meat?  Different kinds of cheese.  Lots of other choices when it came to toppings.  The end result?  Everyone had their own personal, unique pizza that they had formed from their own tastes.

It’s a great idea when you’re making a pizza, but it’s not a great idea when it comes to a person’s view of God.

A recent report from Pew Research found that 80% of Americans say they believe in God.  But...for many in that group...it’s a “god” they have formed using their own preferences.  The “god’ they believe in is not the God of the Bible.  According to the report, only 56% believe in God as described in the Bible.

As the next generation grows up, there is a danger that they are being led down a path that says “God is whoever you want Him to be for you.”  You also see this in more and more people choosing which parts of the Bible they want to believe and not believe. For many, if their lifestyle does not line up with God’s Word, rather than changing their lifestyle, they ignore or explain away that part of God’s Word.

The end result is we are teaching the next generation, by example, that they can go down the “God assembly line” and choose whatever they want His attributes and commandments to be.  In other words, they can “build their own God.”

Down the assembly line they go.  Don’t want God to bring judgment?  Fine.  Just leave that off.  Want there to be many ways to heaven?  Fine.  Add that to your view of God.  Don’t want God telling you to be part of a local church?  No problem.  Just leave that off.  Only want a God of 6 commandments?  That’s okay if it works for you. You get the point.

More than ever, we must teach kids a Biblical view of God.  In a “make your own version of God culture,” we must help them see that our morality must come from God rather than making a god, based on our own morals and lifestyle choices.

We must help the next generation understand that our view of God must be grounded in the Scriptures and the scriptures alone.  The next generation is under tremendous pressure to forsake the God of the Bible and embrace a false god of their own making.  It’s a replay of the children of Israel forming their own god out of a golden calf.  Which God wasn’t very happy about, by the way.

May we take kids back to the true nature and attributes of God.  When they see who God really is, they will have to make a choice.  Surrender and worship Him with their lives or turn to a false god of their own making.

Rather than just helping kids know about God, we must help them know God. There’s a big difference.

I can say I know about Lebron James.  But I don’t know Lebron James personally.  See the difference?  So, how can we help children move beyond just knowing about God to really knowing God?  The first step is to help kids understand what it means to become a follower of Jesus. They must understand what sin is and that they have sinned. They must understand next that there is a penalty for sin. If we do not accept Jesus into our lives, we will be separated from God when we die.

“The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23

Next, kids must understand that Jesus came to the earth, lived a perfect life, died on the cross in our place, was buried and three days later rose from the dead.

“But God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.”
Romans 5:8

Then kids must understand that beginning a relationship with Jesus is like a free gift. You can’t work for it or earn it. You receive it by calling on Jesus in prayer and asking Him to be three things in your life.

“Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”  Romans 10:13

The first thing is asking Him to be their FORGIVER. This means you are sorry for your sins and you ask Jesus to forgive you. You trust Him and Him alone as your way to heaven.

“He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins.”  Ephesians 1:7

Secondly, we must ask Jesus to be our LEADER. This means you ask Jesus to be your “Lord.”  You are asking Jesus to be in charge of your life. He is your “boss” or “coach.” This doesn’t mean you will be perfect, but it does mean you will do your best to follow Him and when you blow it, you ask for His forgiveness.

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."  Romans 10:9

Thirdly, we must ask Jesus to be our FRIEND. This means you are entering a relationship with Him. You spend time talking with Him each day. You read his “text message” (the Bible) each day. Before you make a decision, you talk with Him about it.

“There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”   Proverbs 18:24

We must get there quickly.  We only have a short window of time to reach children before they grow up.  And we know once a child is grown up, the likelihood that they will come to Jesus is very slim.  I am reminded of this each time I see wet cement.  The statement that comes to my mind is, “Children are like wet cement.”  Think about it -when wet cement is first poured, it is flexible and can be written on, molded and crafted.  But soon it becomes concrete, doesn’t it?  It gets hard.  It gets set. And you know how hard it is to write on or shape concrete.  See the difference?

A recent study was released that says 13% of Gen Z are atheists.  This means there are twice as many children who are atheists compared to adult atheists (6%).  The window of time is short.  We must reach the next generation with the Gospel. We must get there before their hearts turn to concrete.  I am reminded of this quote by George Barna.  

“In the race to a child’s heart, the first one there wins.”

If we can get there first and share the Gospel with them, we can reach them.  Let’s get there with God’s way of forgiveness, His wisdom and His Word.  We must reach the next generation while we can. The clock is ticking.  Can you hear it? 

This is an excerpt from my new book "Lead Well in Children's Ministry."  It is available for purchase at this link.

I'm excited to announce my newest book entitled "Lead Well in Children's Ministry."

Drawing from over 30 years in full-time children's ministry, I wrote this book to help children's ministry leaders everywhere.

The title says what it's about...leading well in children's ministry.

Chapters include...

1. Lead Yourself Well

2. Lead Team Members Well

3. Lead the Ministry Well

4. Lead Parents Well

5. Lead Change Well

6. Lead Through Challenges Well

7. Lead Up Well

8. Lead Multi-Site Well

9. Lead the Next Generation Well

10. Lead Well for the Future

This book will help you take your leadership to a whole new level.  It's a must read for anyone who serves in children's ministry.

The book contains over 300 pages of children's ministry leadership help.  The book retails for $19, but I have a sweet deal for you.

Register today for the upcoming "Lead Well in Children's Ministry" Webinar and the book is yours for free. (plus free shipping)

The webinar is this Wednesday, July 24th from 3 to 5 pm EST.  You can see more info below. We have two of the best children's ministry leaders in the nation speaking.  Beth Cunningham, who leads the children's ministry at Church of the Highlands and Lori Bethran, who leads the children's ministry at Lakewood Church in Houston.

Both of these ladies are proven leaders who lead at a high level at two of the largest churches in the nation.

Below is more info. about the webinar.  There is still time to register, but you must do so now.

But what if you can't make it Wednesday?  The good news is the entire webinar will be recorded and you will have access to it on demand, so you can participate at your own schedule.

You can register at this link.  Look forward to seeing you there.

You've probably heard the saying "Everything rises and falls on leadership."  It's true. Everything does rise and fall on leadership...including children's ministry.

The bottom line is this - BETTER YOU = BETTER MINISTRY.

We often get so busy working on improving the ministry that we forget to work on improving our self.

Rick Warren said this...

"Growing organizations require growing leaders. The moment you stop growing your organization stops growing.” 

and this...

"Years ago, I stopped worrying about how to grow our church and instead focused on growing me.  As I grew me, our church grew."

So the big question is this - How can I grow as a children's ministry leader?  

That's why I developed the "Lead Well in Children's Ministry webinar."  It's a solid experience for cm leaders who want to get to the next level in their leadership."

I have brought together 3 children's ministry leaders who have proven they can build and lead amazing children's ministries.

I (Dale Hudson) have built and led some of the largest children's ministries in the nation.  In my latest children's ministry role, I saw God grow the church from 12,000 to 28,000 (weekend attendance) in just 8 years. We ministered to thousands of children each week.  And in one year, we saw 460 children (and dozens of their parents) follow Jesus in baptism.  I will be sharing "How to Lead Yourself Well" in my session.

Beth Cunningham is the children's pastor at Church of the Highlands.  She is an anointed leader who knows how to build incredible volunteer teams.  In just a few short years, the church has grown to an average of over 51,000 people attending each weekend.

Beth and her team are reaching kids by the thousands. She will be sharing how to lead volunteers well.  If anyone is qualified to teach this session, it's Beth.  You will not want to miss her session.

The third session will be led by Lori Bethran.  Lori is the children's pastor at Lakewood Church in Houston.  Lakewood is one of the largest churches in the nation.  Lori has built an amazing team that is reaching the next generation for Christ.  She will be sharing how to reach the next generation.

Here's an added bonus.  When you register for the webinar, you get a free copy of my newest book, "Lead Well in Children's Ministry."  Drawing from my 30 years of children's ministry experience, it contains over 300 pages of leadership principles and strategies that will take your leadership to a new level.  The book retails for $19, but is yours for free when you register for the conference (free shipping included).

One more added bonus for you.  If you are unable to attend the day of the webinar, you can still register and watch it on demand anytime you'd like.

I am excited about seeing God do a great work in your life through this training.  Space is limited.  Get signed up today.

You can become a better leader and see your ministry grow as a result.  You can get more info. and register at this link.  Look forward to seeing you there.

Do you want your ministry to grow?  Of course, we all do.

But for the ministry to grow, you're going to have to grow as a leader.  If you don't continue growing as a leader, you can become the lid that hinders growth.

Rick Warren said this:

"Years ago I stopped worrying about how to grow our church and instead focused on growing me.  As I grew, our church grew.

Abraham Lincoln said this:

"If I have 6 hours to chop down a tree, I'd spend the first 4 sharpening my ax." 

I believe this - if you'll grow you, the ministry will grow with you.  Growing isn't over when you graduate college or have been in ministry for 20 years.  No, personal growth has to be a lifelong journey.  We must continue to read, learn, collaborate and stretch ourselves.

That's why I started Advance Children's Ministry Coaching.  It's a 6-month coaching experience for children's ministry leaders who want to grow to the next level in their leadership.  With 29 years of ministry experience, I have helped build some of the largest and fastest growing children's ministries in the country.  I can help you achieve your ministry and personal growth goals.

Here is what 2 leaders who have been through the coaching, have to say about it.

"Can you teach an old dog new tricks?  Dale did!  Having worked in children's ministry for almost two decades, I have a lot of experience.  Basically, that means I am good at somethings and avoid the rest.  If you are willing to learn, Dale can help you with the rest."
Joel Smith, First Colony Church, Richmond, Texas

"I am so thankful for the coaching experience I was able to have with Dale Hudson.  I have learned tools that will leadership, growth and structure.  I know that this information will help me today, tomorrow and for years to come.  I would highly recommend anyone in children's ministry to take part in this amazing coaching experience."
Michelle Clary, 5 Points Church, Easley, South Carolina

Advance coaching will help you...

• Have more leadership influence with the team you lead.
• See your ministry grow and expand.
• Go to the next level as a leader.
• Receive a personal investment in you and your ministry.
• Navigate the challenges and struggles you are facing.

 The 6-month program includes...

• Monthly group coaching call.  Live, one hour sessions on the important topics listed below.  Each session includes teaching and group discussions.  You will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the topics with Dale and the other leaders in the group.  Sessions are also recorded so you have on-demand access afterward.

•  July - self-leadership
• August - leading staff and volunteers
• September - leading through change and challenges
• October - keys to a growing ministry and multi-site
• November - creating a dynamic children's ministry culture in your church
• December - staying relevant in ministry

• Personalized growth plan.  Dale will help you identify your blind spots and work with you to create growth steps.

• Copy of Dale's books.

• Inside access to the notes from the Kidmin Gig.  3  years ago, Dale started a roundtable for the 30 largest children's ministry in the country.  You will get the latest notes from this gathering.

 The deadline to apply is June 22.  Go to this link for more information and to apply.

Come join us.  I promise you will grow and become a better leader for your ministry.

There are KidMin leaders who just barely get by and it is reflected in the ministry they lead.  The ministry is flat.  There is little to no energy or excitement.  Very few kids and families are reached and so the baptistry is normally dry.  Kids walk in yawning and walk out yawning.  Volunteers have learned to tolerate jobs not finished, communication not delivered and promises not kept.  Excellence is not pursued.  Guests rarely return.

There are also KidMin leaders who thrive and again it is evident in the ministry they lead.  When you walk into the ministry, you can sense a spirit of excitement and anticipation.  Kids get in and out of their cars with a smile on their face.  There are trained volunteers in every room who are on-board with the mission of the ministry.  You hear laughter and small talk in the hallways.  The ministry is growing by reaching new kids and families.  Parents are engaged and involved.

You get the picture and I'm sure you've seen and maybe even experienced both.  The big question is "What's the difference between KidMin leaders who barely get by and KidMin leaders who thrive?"  Let's pull back the curtain and look at 5 of the big differences.

Those who barely get by CARRY the ministry.  Those who thrive SHARE the ministry.  KidMin leaders who are primarily doers will get overwhelmed as they try to do everything themselves.  Plates will begin to drop.  And these dropped plates cause the ministry to plunge into mediocrity.

Ministries that thrive are led by leaders who are primarily equippers.  They recognize that they can't do everything themselves and they begin to share the ministry responsibilities with others.  As they empower others to do the work of the ministry, ministry plates are not only maintained, but gain momentum and move forward.

Think about your current situation.  Do you find yourself running around, trying to get everything done by yourself?  Do you feel overwhelmed because you don't get to everything?  The answer is not to work harder.  The answer is to empower others and share the ministry responsibilities with them. 

Those who barely get by are BUSY.  Those who thrive are PRODUCTIVE.  There is a big difference between being busy and being productive.  Being busy is like riding a merry-go-round.  There is a lot of motion, but you find yourself only going around in circles and never moving the ministry forward.

The goal must be productivity.  By productivity, I mean you actually see measurable results.  This happens when you focus on a few, key priorities and pour your time, talent and resources into it.  It means you evaluate your programs on a regular basis and change what is not moving the ministry forward.

It's not about how many hours you work.  It's about what you accomplish during the hours you work. All across the country, you can find ministries that are busy, but little is being accomplished.  Outdated programs and events keep the ministry busy, but no growth comes from it.  If you are going to break out of barely getting by and move to thriving, then you must be willing to change and refocus. 

Those who barely get by develop PROGRAMS.  Those who thrive develop PROCESSES.  When programs become the end result, the faith development of kids and parents stalls.  Programs cannot drive discipleship.  Discipleship must drive programs.

KidMin leaders who barely get by have programs as their primary focus.  How can we keep this program going?  How can we get kids involved in this program?  How can we get parents to support this program?

KidMin leaders who thrive have a clear process for discipling kids and parents.  They first establish the process and then put programs in place that are steps in the process.   They point kids and parents to these steps while helping them see the end result of the process.  Everything they do is a strategic part of the process.  

Those who barely get by lead with PASSIVITY.  Those who thrive lead with PASSION.  Here's what I can promise you.  Behind every passive ministry you will find a passive leader.  And behind every passionate ministry you will find a passionate leader.

The ministry you lead is a mirror of your level of passion as a leader.  You see, passion is not taught...it is caught.  And passion is found when you know your calling and give yourself wholeheartedly to fulfilling it.

If the ministry is barely getting by, it's likely because you are barely getting by.  Get alone with God.  Spend time with Him.  Ask Him to renew and rekindle the fire He has placed in your heart.  When you get on fire for God, others will see it and be drawn to it.

Those who barely get by are SATISFIED.  Those who thrive are STRETCHING.  Leaders who are barely getting by are content to barely get by.  They have it in neutral.  Maintaining.  Comfortable.  Talking more about what God has done in the past than about what He is going to do in the future.  Not willing to take any risks.  Not willing to change what is not working.

But those who are thriving are stretching.  They honor the past, but they don't live in it.  They are constantly looking for ways to improve.  There are no sacred cows.  They are comfortable with being uncomfortable.  They actively look for ways to reach more kids and parents and grow the ministry.

They read.  They listen.  They ask questions.  They learn.  They network.  They get ideas from other churches.  They are never satisfied with the status quo.

How would you say you are doing as a leader?  Do you feel like you are barely getting by?  Do you feel like you are thriving?  What would those closest to you say?  What would the volunteers on your team say?

Are you spending more time sharing the ministry than you are carrying the ministry?

Are you just busy or are you productive?

Are you focusing more on developing programs or processes?

Are you a passionate leader?  

Have you grown satisfied?  Are you willing to stretch yourself?

Wherever you find yourself currently, the good news is you can move from just barely getting by to thriving.

One way you can thrive as a leader is by joining my Advance Coaching group.






Advance Coaching is a 6-month coaching group that helps you...

• Grow personally as a leader.
• Lead staff and volunteers well.
• Know how to lead through changes and challenges.
• Identify and implement keys to growing your ministry.
• Create a dynamic children's ministry culture in your church.
• Stay relevant in ministry for the long haul.

As a member of the advance coaching group, you will have access to...

• 6 months of personal coaching by Dale
• monthly group coaching video chat
• personalized growth plan for you and your ministry
• online support

The next coaching group starts in January.  You can get more information about joining Advance Coaching at this link.  Space is limited, so apply today.