Gaining a ministry edge
Every church has it – a continuous competition for resources, funds and people. Missions vie for resources with youth ministries. Youth ministries compete with Sunday schools. Sunday schools compete for classroom space and materials. There are never enough volunteers. All too often, a church’s ministries become fragmented and isolated from each other, as each ministry and program seeks to satisfy its needs.
Where does Awana fit into the resource matrix of your church? How well do you interact with the pastoral staff and with other ministry leaders? More importantly, what can you as an Awana commander do to be an asset to your church instead of just another competitor for resources?
Awana exists to serve the church as an outreach ministry to children and through them, reach their friends and families. How well does your Awana program achieve that purpose? Have children come to faith in Jesus Christ under your leadership? Has your Awana program built bridges into your unchurched community?
I sincerely hope each Awana commander can answer those questions with a resounding, “Yes!” But no matter where on the spectrum between “roaring success “ to “floundering” your Awana program sits, I want to make you, the commander, an “offer you can’t refuse."
Awana has developed a three-day experience called Commander College. No matter what your level of Awana experience, you’ll participate in a renewing experience you will not soon forget. You’ll learn how to integrate Awana into the overall mission and ministry of your church. You’ll come away equipped to build bridges across the competing ministries of your church. You’ll return to your church inspired to be a leader of excellence among volunteers and children.
Even if you have years of experience as a commander, Commander College will hone your organizational, communications, and leadership skills. If you are a brand new commander, you’ll leave Commander College light years ahead in building the skills you need to serve your church well.
That’s what Commander College is about – helping you serve God and your church with dedication complemented with skill and excellence.
You’ll find more information on our Commander College Web site. I hope to see you at the next session.