Jenni Pretorius of God Adventure Church, East London, which is hosting the Raising Arrows children’s ministry conference next month, says God is urging believers to leave some old ways behind and step into the unchartered space of encounter and presence-centered ministry with children
Jenni Pretorius We believe that God is challenging us to take strides into the unchartered space of encounter and presence-centred ministry with our children, and to leave some of the old ways and approaches behind.
Nelson Mandela made the statement once that our children are our greatest treasure. They are our future. Those that abuse them tear at the fabric of our society and weaken our nation. It is an adage expressed often enough, in various ways across languages, cultures and generations. In many respects, if we want a glimpse into our future society, we need not look too far beyond the state and condition of our children. Of all people, the magnitude of this should be acknowledged and acted-upon by the Church. After all, Jesus was clear in His attitude towards children – this is the truth I tell you, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child will not enter into it. (Mark 10:13-16). Children hold the keys to experiencing a Kingdom life, and they are precious beyond measure.
Although we might fervently add our amen to a sermon on the importance of raising children right or of the necessity for championing the needs and dignity of children, what is truly indicative is where we place our resources – our time, our money and our talents. A quick visit to a local Christian bookshop exposes shelves and shelves of literature, music and resources geared towards adults, and very little towards children. Churches spend thousands and thousands on venue upgrades, facilities and conferences for their adult congregants, while children are kept out of sight in under-resourced venues and supervised by a few exhausted volunteers. Or on the other hand, thousands of rands might be spent on entertainment and state-of-the-art facilities for children to keep them from becoming bored and interrupting the ‘real’ stuff.
The good news however, is many Christians are recognising that children’s church should not be a baby sitting or entertainment service, that children don’t have a junior Holy Spirit – but have access to the very same power and authority that raised Jesus from the dead! God in His perfect wisdom chose a teenage girl to host His presence within her womb and a teenage boy to slay an enemy of Israel! Some of the greatest revivals in history have been led by young people barely out of their teens. When Jesus said the kingdom of God belongs to such as these, (Matt 19:14) He really meant it! Children are extraordinary in their simple but profound faith; in their ability to hear God and see into the spirit realm, and in their boldness to speak the truth without fear of what others might think. God is encountering children and teenagers in powerful, supernatural ways all over the earth and it is His intention that they are part of the glorious company of end-time revivalists. (Joel 2:28)
But He is requiring us, as the Church to partner with this dream. Behind every healthy, happy and powerful child, there is a mother, father, grandparent or teacher, guardian or mentor. Often times these champions go uncelebrated, but they are the ones who have prophetically discerned the target and pointed the arrows towards their mark!
We want to invite you, in whatever capacity you serve in the life of a child or children, to attend our Raising Arrows conference from September 23rd – 24th at God Adventure Church, East London.
We believe that God is challenging us to take strides into the unchartered space of encounter and presence-centred ministry with our children, and to leave some of the old ways and approaches behind. Two key principles for a thriving children’s ministry – being presence-centred and operating from a place of rest – will form the bedrock of what we cover. We want children not just to know about God and His word, but to know Him personally and to encounter Him in ways that are real and life-transforming. Sessions will be practical and informative as we lead you through ways in which to help children hear God’s voice and to share His words and love with others. There will be opportunities to connect with other children’s workers, share and discuss ideas and receive input on curriculum, planning, and healing childhood trauma through children’s Sozo. Most importantly however, we want you to encounter God’s love, and fresh commission through times of worship and personal ministry.
Our two guest speakers are seasoned and anointed children’s pastors. Lynette Snyman has been a children’s pastor for over 20 years. When reflecting on her work, she has this to say “Initially I believed it was all about teaching children about God, but now I believe that we should be teaching children how to connect with God.” Lynette facilitates regular gatherings of children’s ministers for times of mentoring and equipping. Her homegrown curriculum is gaining traction and recognition in South African churches. You can find her curriculum on her website www.livingclay.co.za.
Esmé Schmitt is recognised at home and abroad for igniting and equipping children and teen revivalists. She has ministered extensively in Africa, Europe and North and South America. She is currently a pastor at Journey of Grace in Cape Town. You can find out more about Esmé and her ministry at www.esmeschmitt.com.
Conference Details
When: Starts Friday 23rd September @ 6.30pm; Saturday 24th 9am – 5pm
Cost: R300 (includes lunch and snacks on Saturday)
Where: God Adventure Church, Quigney East London
How to book and pay: Quicket online
If you have any further queries please contact God Adventure children’s pastor Lizelle du Preez at kids@godadventure.org
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