Although snow was falling and bone chilling wind was blowing, the energy and excitement at THE GATHERING 2009 kept spirits and hearts warm and ready to learn. Embracing the team theme and excellence in participation, tables mimicked football fields with green table cloths, white yard lines, field goals, and pom-poms. “We wanted to make this event, including decorations, party themes, games and ideas applicable and accessible to the volunteers and leaders in our local churches”. Not only did THE GATHERING showcase inexpensive ways to make a room creative for youth and children’s events, but how it can be fun too!
State youth and children’s leaders lead entertaining and creative games, crowd breakers, and challenges that made everyone want to be a kid again. “The key is to keep the schedule changing”, said Kim Dawson of Beckley Family Worship Center. This was a phrase that echoed throughout the weekend. Leaders learned creative ways to keep youth and children involved and interested in the service by using applicable games, transition activities and options, and fresh ways of presenting the gospel. Everyone got involved and had a blast with the “fun time” hour of the weekend.
Not only was everyone challenged by the games and icebreakers, but by the applicable word brought by Randy and Rhonda Parris. “The key is to love children, yourself, and your family”. The necessity of love for the youth and children you minister to was the first area to consider in ministry, remembering however, not to neglect yourself and your family. All three areas are essential in creating a holistic environment for everyone involved.
This was the first year that youth were invited to this event. Tom Madden challenged state directors to identify and encourage “The Eagles” in our youth groups. Rhonda encouraged and challenged “The Eagles” to embrace their callings and to be able to hone in on the characteristics of a good leader. “Write down the vision, pray, fast, surround yourselves with people of excellence and know how to raise funds for your ministry”. Every Eagle walked away with a new perspective on how to embrace the purposes that God has set for them.
THE GATHERING 2009 provided an atmosphere of unity, fellowship, and learning. Challenges and different approaches to ministry were presented, and everyone left with the same words echoing from their lips “I can’t wait for next year” and we agree.
Be sure to watch our monthly promo videos and bulletins so that YOU don’t miss…THE GATHERING 2010!
Until then…RISE UP
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