But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
-Luke 18:16(NIV)

Midweek Ministry Considerations

Considering a midweek Christian educational experience? Midweek educational experiences for the entire Christian household are wonderful tools for congregations to add to their discipleship toolbox. This ministry can strengthen the fellowship of a congregation and quench a household's thirst for community. It can open congregations doors to the community in which it exists. Most importantly it offers another opportunity for children and adult to grow spiritually. Here are critical components to the development and successful implementation of a midweek ministry.

Any Christian education ministry must value children. This is obvious, but what does valuing children look like? Value is reflected in the volunteers that participate. These volunteers are;

  • Screened
  • Trained
  • Represent all ages

Screening is a critical step to ensure the safety of children and increase
ecurity measures in post 9-11 world. Training is imperative to give volunteers the skills they need to manage an educational environment, use a curriculum and communicate spiritual truths and disciplines. A broad range of ages and stages of volunteers enables the intergenerational relationships that enrich the lives of children. Value is also indicated in a budget that adequately provides needed resources. Valuing children is reflected in the support of volunteers who minister to them.

A midweek ministry like any Christian education ministry needs to be structured around an understanding of spiritual development and faith-nurturing relationships. Instructors and facilitators need to;

  • Have an understanding of faith developmental stages.
  • Greet children and families as they arrive and
  • Pray for children and families regularly.

Spiritual instruction needs to be more intentional about spiritual development and within the context of a faith-nurturing relationship.

Partnering with parents is an easily overlooked step in a midweek ministry. Parents are the primary human agent in the spiritual development of a child. Their partnership and participation is critical. Congregations can partner with parents by;

  • Surveying their needs and interests
  • Provide a nursery for infants.
  • Serve a meal. This makes a midweek opportunity very convenient forfamilies.
  • Seek their leadership on the midweek team.
  • Offer parenting training regularly.
  • Regularly offer opportunities for families to learn together.
  • Present instructional opportunities for parents and other adults that increase their awareness of their roles and responsibilities in the faith life of children.

This partnering with parents is a very significant step in the development of a midweek ministry.

The midweek leadership team needs to develop a master-plan that fits the mission and vision of the congregation. The midweek ministry needs to have a written;

  • Purpose and vision statement.
  • Goals and objectives.
  • An annual plan.

    • A relevant and effective midweek ministry includes children in the total life of the congregation. It addresses the separate needs of families, parents and children. Midweek ministry opportunities intentionally touch the lives within families and are spiritually nurturing. A midweek ministry celebrates baptism, encourages worship, fosters discipleship and enables the discovery and use of the gifts of God in the building of His kingdom.

    Footprints for Families is a workshop/seminar that teaches Christian parent's life-strategies and skills that nurture the faith within family life. Topics include; Pursuing a Vision, Managing Chaos and Breathing Faith into Daily Life.

    Faith and Family is a Christian parenting seminar that strengthens the partnership between the congregation and home. Topics include; Faith Formation, Church and Family Partnership, and Faith Milestones.

    Connections is a workshop/seminar that equips church staffs and congregational leaders for the development of family ministry. Planning activities include; Vision to Action Planning, Ministry Survey and Analysis, and Structuring for Success.

    Mr. Jeff Moeller
    Director of Youth and Education
    (330) 836-7286
    jeff.moeller@fairlawnlutheran.org

    * Contact the district office for additional information