WHY NOT USE VIDEO?

I've seen some kids totally mesmerized by a well prepared, well done flannelgraph show. This was because 1) some of the kids had never seen flannelgraph before, and 2) the teacher was so good, she could have used a bowl of dry oatmeal to get her point across.  But for a lot of children (dare I say the majority), static images on a felt background aren't going to engage the senses all the time. The fact that many kids are exposed to, engaged in, or absorbed with television, video games, movies, and the internet means that those of us involved in children's ministries should be ready to meet the challenge. While the age of the flannelgraph is not dead, it is not the only methodology available to us.

I am unapologetic in the structured use of media to minister to children.  Of course, there are those who would disagree:

• "Kids are watching too much tv today."
• "I don't allow my kids to watch cartoons."
• "Church isn't a place for entertainment."
• "Passive activity is bad for kids...bad, bad, bad!"
• "Back in my day, we had....flannelgraph!"    And on it goes.

I don't intend to get into a point by point refutation of the these statements, because I think there might be some legitimate concerns hidden within some of them.  Yes, kids watch a lot of television today.  Yes, plopping the children in front of the tv just to have them soak up cartoons for hours is not healthy. But what the above points fail to address is the idea that technology and media are tools that, when used properly, can be very effective in getting our message across. To borrow a time-worn cliche, let's not throw the proverbial baby out with the bathwater.

PBS discovered early on that, by using colorful, goofy puppets and changing scenes relatively quickly, that they could actually teach such basic concepts as numbers and the alphabet.  Sesame Street was born.  I can still see some of the sements in my mind.  I can recite the preamble to the U.S. Constitution, not because I set out to memorize it, but because I learned a song on Schoolhouse Rock.  There have been studies done (our church's day care center actually participated in one) that demonstrate that video can actually be used as an active teaching tool. Why not harness that potential to help children and their families grow in their faith?

Yes, I know, media can be abused.  It can be abused by the world, and it can overused by the church.  That's a fair point.  After all, children's ministry is about relationships, not gadgets and gizmos.  But to many kids (except maybe those coming from a highly sheltered background), the "wow" of video and technology is the "cup of cold water" that can serve as the catalyst to build those relationships and to introduce or strengthen the ultimate relationship: the one with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Don't be afraid.  It can start with a television or a video screen.

After all, flannelgraph was once "new technology" too.

MILESTONE MUSINGS

Milestones have a purpose.

It was 29 years ago, June 18, on a Saturday morning, that I appeared before a select group of pastors and church leaders to answer just three basic questions regarding:

• My conversion
• My calling
• My convictions.

The "ordination council" in our church was a very rare thing.  The senior pastor would recommend a candidate for ordination (usually after a long period of observation and practical service).  A council was formed with a diverse mix of elders, deacons, and "pastors of churches of like precious faith."  I spent months creating a written answer to the three basic questions and now I had the privilege of answering these questions out loud.  It was simple and straightforward: read my statement, then answer questions about it.

Conversion...this was my testimony, how I came to trust Jesus as my Lord and Savior.

Calling...how was it I believed God was calling me into the ministry.

Convictions...my view of various doctrinal and church-related matters.  And this was what took the bulk of the roughly five hour council. You see, a regurgitation of doctrinal views I had in my statement was no sufficient. These men not only wanted to know what I believed, but why I believed it. And it wasn't just the basic doctrines either.  I had to give my perspective on hot-button, potentially divisive doctrinal issues.  And for good measure, the men came up with local church scenarios that would fill volumes of pastoral horror manuals.  Some of the men seemed to delight in taking "the other side" of the argument, just to see how I would respond. The time was designed to see if I was serious about what I felt God was calling me to do.

In the end, I was asked to leave the room so the council could deliberate.  A short time later, they called me back and informed me that the council had unanimously voted to "recognize my ordination." Why did they phrase it that way? Glenn Solum, my senior pastor, put it this way: "We are not here to ordain Tim.  God has already ordained him.  All we are doing is bearing witness to and affirming what God has already done."  And that was the most sobering thing I've heard, as once again I was reminded that all of life and ministry is not about me, it's all about God.

So it's the 29th year since I became an "ordained minister." And if it sounds like I'm boasting, it's not because I'm "Captain Clergy," but rather I boast in the awesomeness of my Lord and Savior. I'm just a servant...yes, at times a rebellious one...but a servant nonetheless. Anniversaries give us the opportunity to look back at milestones and see what God has done and look ahead to what He will be doing. Being between ministries, I don't know what the future holds, but (as the old saying goes) I know who holds the future. Thank you Lord for letting me formally serve you for almost three decades.

These are pics from the formal ordination service held a couple of weeks after the council.

WHICH MODEL DO YOU USE?

Do you minister to kids or do you baby sit them?

At one time, many churches saw ministry to children as strictly a "watch the kids so the adults can enjoy the service without interruption" element.  Fortunately, an entire generation has begun to focus on the MINISTRY portion of "Children's Ministry". There is no end of resources, conferences, and networking opportunities that zero in on a kid focused model, in which discipleship and spiritual growth specifically for children is the goal.

Over the years, I have observed two main models or mind-sets in churches regarding their children's ministries.  One is the Ministry Model and the other is the Child Care Model.    The following are some contrasts (as I see them) between the two:

MINISTRY MODEL: Child (and by extension, family) focused
CHILD CARE MODEL: Grown up focused

MINISTRY MODEL: Primary motivation for kids church is to provide age appropriate opportunity for kids to worship and grow in their faith.
CHILD CARE MODEL: Primary motivation for kids church is to provide an outlet for kids so they don't get restless and distracting in the adult service

MINISTRY MODEL: Kids can and do make spiritual commitments
CHILD CARE MODEL: Kids don't really learn anything

MINISTRY MODEL: Having a lot of volunteers means being able to provide maximum relationship building
CHILD CARE MODEL: Having a lot of volunteers means not being stuck back there with the kids for too long.

MINISTRY MODEL: Even if the lesson is easy, it still takes time and discipline to prepare
CHILD CARE MODEL: Easy-prep lessons, baby!

MINISTRY MODEL: Scope and sequence is important for keeping curriculum balanced and on-track
CHILD CARE MODEL: What's "scope and sequence?"

MINISTRY MODEL: Long term growth of the children
CHILD CARE MODEL:  Short term supervision of the children

The above is obviously a simplified list and does not mean there can't be some overlap.  For example, even though our primary mind set for kids church is for kids to worship and grow, freeing the adults to worship without distractions is certainly a legitimate secondary benefit.  And in this increasingly busy age, "low-prep" curriculums can serve an important purpose.

But the key element here is the mind-set or bent of those in leadership toward children's ministries.  I once sat in a church service where a very nice lady was announcing the need for children's church volunteers.  She said, "...and if we get enough people on the schedule, you'll only be stuck with the kids once or twice a year."  I cringed.  Later, as I made a commitment to full-time (albeit unpaid) children's ministry, I had more than one leader in the church shake their head with deep pity and say, "poor Tim...we need to get you some help so you aren't trapped back there week after week."  Before long, I realized that it was a mind-set that regarded children's ministries as the "child care" arm of the church and not a full-fledged, legitimate ministry by iteself.  I purposed to help change the mind-set.

Where is your mind-set?  What model do you feel your church may embrace?

LEARNING FROM THE KIDS' CHOICE AWARDS

The Nickolodean Kid's Choice Awards have come and gone and I'm the better for it!

No, I'm not a big fan of the non-stop screaming from the audience. Nor am I always thrilled with the nominees and winners, many of whom I wouldn't allow my own kids to watch if they were still in the targeted age-group. And after a decade and a half of clearing and cleaning our own set in our children's program, all I think as I watch is, "somebody's gonna have to stay late and mop up all that slime! (and I'm pretty sure host Will Smith isn't going to do it)." So why do I watch?

1. Feeling the pulse. What are kids watching? What are they listening to? What's "hot" in the world of children? For a couple of hours at the KCA, I get a mini-seminar on trends, tastes, and likes of the elementary, pre-teen crowd. By "taking the pulse", I'm better able to apply the truth of the Word to the world of the kid.

2. Staying up to date. Several years ago, a mom walked in with her daughter. "Hey, cool lunchbox! It's got Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup," I said, pointing out each of the PowerPuff Girls. The daughter's eyes grew wide and she looked up at her mom and exclaimed, "He knows who they are!" The thing is, referencing the PowerPuff Girls will not work today (ummm, yeah, I tried). The Kid's Choice Awards helps me find out what's IN today and helps me gain a hearing (or at least the proverbial "foot in the door") when I teach spiritual things. If the only thing you have to share is, "Did you know Selena Gomez was named favorite tv actress at the Kid's Choice Awards?", you've made inroads into the child's world.

3. Transferable concepts. Kid's Choice Awards know how to put on a show. Yes, it's loud. It's active. Like it or not, it is a venue where kids can act like kids. Scores of books and articles have been written about Disneyland and how they are masters at creating kid-friendly, engaging environments. The point is not to emulate everything that secular parks and events have. For one thing, it's not always suitable for church, and for another thing, most churches don't have the budget or staff to pull it off. But creativity can go a long way. This year's KCA involved kids at the outset by having them wave glowsticks in the air. Right away, we have a low cost, low tech thing we can do! The show announced the winners with sword swallowers (not recommended), flying blimps, robots, and other creative ways. Imagine bringing out this week's memory verse on a flying hovercraft toy or an endlessly deep bag.

4. Encouraging service. Believe it or not, the Kid's Choice Awards isn't all lights, slime, and sound. They have a service award called "The Big Help," which is given to a celebrity who has given back by way of service to others. It is all part of a year long effort to encourage kids to get involved in their communities. We can do that too. We can make thank you cards for all the church leadership, or pack care baskets for the missionaries. Some churches even do short term missions trips to other countries or lead in clean up efforts around town. If a secular organization can model serving others, how much more should the church lead the way!

5. Keeping it real. "Model this." "Emulate that." "Apply the other." Before you think I am advocating "doing it like they do at the Kid's Choice Awards," let's wrap it up with a very important distinction: I don't know if Will Smith, or Katy Perry, or Justin Beiber stayed after the show to talk to a kid about the loss of a pet, or pray with a child whose parents are fighting, or comfort a child who is afraid of bullies at his or her school. And having established such a strong connection, did any of the producers take advantage of the high honor and privilege of sharing the gospel with a child, or even helping the kids' parents share the gospel? It's been said before by more knowledgeable people than me, but we can build relationships better than Disney, better than Chuck E Cheese, and better than the Kid's Choice Awards. And that reality trumps slime, flash, and effects every time.

CPC 12: POSTLUDE: THE HIGHLIGHT VIDEO

Here it is, almost a month out of the 2012 Children's Pastors' Conference in San Diego and I realize I never posted the highlight video on this blog. Enjoy!

CPC San Diego 2012 from Cross and Crown on Vimeo.

CPC 12: PART 4: "FAREWELL TO THE FAREWELL TOUR"

Me and Red hangin' out at CPC

The line was long at the continental breakfast table in one of the courtyards.  But folks seemed in bright spirits as they got their muffins, bagels, fruit, juice, and coffee and headed for the final breakout of CPC 12.

I attended John Tietsort's presentation on applying the Bible to kids.  Like all the other workshops, this was top-notch, practical, and motivating.  Dr. Tietsort took the time to talk to me after the conference, inviting me to network with him regularly.  That is what sets the presenters and "personalities" of CPC apart: they are fellow laborers, fellow servants, a band of brothers and sisters who are there for one another.

The closing session featured Craig Jutilla.  What a testimony of a man who nearly lost his marriage and his life to doing too much and having the wrong priorities.  Without losing his trademark humor, he stripped away the outer shell and showed his vulnerability.

It was when Michael Chanley took the stage that I began to choke up.  The last session of CPC is always emotional for me, but seeing as this is my "Farewell Tour", this could have been my last CPC for awhile.  The CPC staff came up.  Earl Radcliff, a founding member of INCM, was recognized.  Michael was presented with a special plaque from a pastor from Jordan.

And then it was over.  Hugs, handshakes, high fives.  Luggage carts, lines to get the final cd's and dvd's, and last minute farwells. Staff flew into motion, dismantling the stage set and clearing out rooms.  Later in the afternoon, I walked to the front desk lobby and was amazed that every trace of the 2012 Children's Pastors' Conference was gone. 

Well, not quite gone. Hundreds of children's ministers are making their way back to their homes, carrying with them the lessons learned.  Networks and contacts have been established.  Not to sound corny, but CPC will continue in the children's ministries across the country and in other lands.

 For me, I've come away with a great deal more than I expected.  I even learned a few things about myself.  But that's another subject for another day.  In the meantime, here's just a few folks I got to connect with:

For a full week, from the church tour to the resource center, Carla and I kept crossing paths!

Sylvia Foth, director of Kidzana. 



Rob Biagi...great music and ministry

Brian Dollar with High Voltage Kids 

 Go Fish Guys

 And I finally got closer to the stage!





CPC 12: Part 3: "LIVING ON LEAP DAY"

"Every kids pastor needs another kids pastor to talk him off the ledge." (Sam Luce).

As I began this blog, it is Wednesday, February 29. It is also leap day, which adds a little twist to the quote above.  The speaker was Sam Luce, who, along with Matt McKee and Jonathan Cliff, appeared on a panel in our first general session of the morning.  The topic was networking with a community of leaders.  As one who has wanted to "leap" on more than one occasion (figuratively speaking, of course), I appreciated their wisdom.

Of course, the music was incredible, with Denver and the Mile-High Orchestra doing Solid Rock (a fave of the kids at VBS last year).  The days' breakouts were also uplifting. Steve Adams (current CP at Saddleback) spoke about re-inventing your ministry, something that hit me squarely where I am at this season of life. Matt Barnes, who is on staff at Rock Harbor Church, challenged us to evaluate our programs with "why?"

The evening general session featured Beth Guckenberger. I've never heard her before, but her ability to tell a story and her emphasis that the Word of God is the MAIN CHARACTER of the story made for captivating listening. Larry Fowler from Awana was honored. And then, Michael Chanley pulled a surprise: a performance by up and coming singer Jamie Grace.

Later that evening was FX LIVE, a family oriented "crowd show" that involves music, stunts, and games. I have to confess to being exhausted from the last couple of days, so after a last stroll around the bustling resource center, I reluctantly headed to my room (sorry Roger!). But unlike my last post, I got some pictures that hopefully capture some of the atmosphere and rooms. Enjoy.

My camera is woefully inadaqute to capture the stage. But I tried...

the famous Resource Center

CPC Store

Believe it or not, this is the Internet Cafe

CPC 12: PART 2: "A BUSY DAY"

I'm a bad blogger (sad face). Actually, I'm a tired blogger. But I'm also a blogger with no pictures of today's CPC adventures (Tuesday, February 28). I'll try harder for the next segment...honest!

But the "no pictures" and "no energy" feeling is offset by a very full and filling day. If there is one thing I've learned about CPC, it's that one goes away with far more than one had upon arrival. I'm going to (try to) break down Tuesday's events with just a few phrases:

General Session: great opening worship. Michael Chanley interviewed three children's pastors-- Mike Johnson, Brad Tate, and Mindy Spurrier--about providing a safe and relevant children's environment. M.C. was master ventriloquist Dennis Lee...never fails to have me doubled over in laughter.

Breakouts: "Ministry Seasons" and "Doing Good Leading to Bad" with Craig Jutilla and "Dealing With Difficult Parents" with Kurt Goble. All breakouts were good....I especially appreciated Craig's vulnerability and Kurt's down-to-earth approach.

Networking Lunch: boxed lunch containing something wrapped in a green stuff. Apple good. Meeting other warriors at one of the "leadership" tables better.

Afternoon general session: the legendary Jim Wideman received INCM award. His daughter Yancy sang (I'm one of only three people in the field of cm who hasn't actually never heard Yancy sing before). Keynote speaker was Reggie Joiner on working with families.

Dinner on the Town: Kelly's Steakhouse. At the table next to mine was a virtual Who's Who in the CM world.

Late Night With Lee: Dennis Lee showcasing great children's ministry talent: Rob Biagi, Miss Patty Cake, and Jana Alarya. Fun evening.

Kidology Gathering: laughing and sharing with Karl Bastian (the Kidologist). Received some great counsel regarding my "between ministry" situation. One of the greatest things about CPC is that I can open up and talk about what's going on in my life. Very refreshing.

And so, late at night, I finally arrived back in my room...physically and maybe a little mentally tired, but my spirit was full. No, I didn't get a lot of pictures, but I ended the day with far more.

CPC 12: PART 1: "THE SIGNS SAY...."

"I played my drums....for the One Who saved me!" And with the crashing sounds of the GoFish Guys and stage effects worthy of a rock concert, the 2012 Children's Pastors' Conference opened its first general session.

More on that in a moment, but first...

It rained today (Monday, February 27); which, as we all know, is perfect for driving the freeway system in southern California in a double decker tour bus. But that did not deter our hearty souls from starting our morning at 8 a.m. to visit three churches--two in Orange County and one in San Diego itself. Friends Church in Yorba Linda is a 100 year old church that looks like they have defined the word, "Innovative." Three stories and a basement through which run what appears to be endless hallways, but the attention to every detail can be seen in every room and station. Next came Rock Harbor Church in Costa Mesa, a church which has adopted a warehouse with great effect, creating eye-popping rooms for the kids. Our last stop was College Avenue Baptist Church, a historic church in San Diego that does amazing things with their environment on a low budget. One thing I noticed as I was sifting through pictures is that all three churches were very good at signage, letting folks know where they were going. Very important for first time visitors.

Later that evening was general session one. Some of my colleagues from the Rogue Valley Children's Ministry Network were there and we were able to sit together at a group table. We ate, we laughed, we joked. And then the lights dimmed and BOOM! The GoFish Guys opened with "I Played My Drum" (which I first heard as part of their version of "Little Drummer Boy."). It was a powerful way of launching the session. We were treated to an overview of the vision of INCM by new Executive Director Michael Chanley. I have to confess being one of the few who has not heard the incredible vocal talents of Yancy, but her performance really showcased those talents.

In an unsusual twist this year, Michael Chanley sat on a couch (yes, you read that correctly...living room furniture!) and interviewed Phil Vischer, creator of Veggie Tales and What's In the Bible. And then, following some hard driving worship from the combined talents of the GoFish Guys and Denver and the Mile High Orchestra, we were treated to a message by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship and speaker at the annual Harvest Crusades. He spoke on the prodigal son and how prodigals can return to the Lord.

Opening night at CPC sets the tone, and it would appear that the tone has been set well.

"Oh I like to ride in a double decker bus..."

Museum display? Nope...bulletin board display at Friends Church

Example of signage pointing to kids registration at Friends Church

Signs at Rock Harbor Church emphasize security

Lunch at Rock Harbor Church

Simple, yet creative stage design at College Avenue Baptist

What do you call the College Avenue Children's area? Follow the signs!

THIS is how you paint a kids area and label the office! (College Avenue)

This is OUR table! (another example of effective signage)

Rogue Valley Children's Ministry Network at CPC 12

CPC12: PRELUDE 3: "WHEN THINGS DON'T GO AS PLANNED"

I recently read that if you want to get something you’ve never had, you need to do something you’ve never done.

I don’t always do that deliberately, but sometimes I get dragged into it. And then I wonder, “What is God trying to teach me through this experience?” Well, maybe I don’t wonder that all the time. Indeed, at times I react with less than a Spirit-filled reaction. Thank the Lord for grace and mercy and lessons learned, even if I get taken out of the comfortable and predictable and I have no idea why.

I’m in San Diego waiting for the start of CPC12, the premiere conference dedicated to children’s ministries. Because I have no idea what the future holds (long-time blog readers know the story), I’ve jokingly referred to this as my “Farewell Tour.” Being as this is my seventh time at CPC, I know the routine of the conference, and I know my personal routine. I’m ready, I’m set, I’m pumped.

As often happens, I had a flight delay on my way. No problem. That, in itself, is part of the routine. I expect that. I plan a “travel day” just for that. That way, when I arrive at the hotel that evening, (hot, tired, sweaty, and hungry), I can just give my plastic to the front desk clerk and I’m soon in my room.

For the first time in seven years, my card was declined! I won’t bore you with all the details of the problem, but I spent a fairly good amount of time on the phone with the credit card company trying to get this fixed. The front desk clerk at the Town and Country was incredibly helpful and patient and understanding of the problems and figured out a way to keep me in my room until I could fix things (I always like to applaud great customer service!). Still working on details, but I thought at the time, “This is not part of the plan! What a way to start my ‘Farewell Tour!’”

As I went to bed, I knew I could at least look forward to the breakfast buffet in the morning. It has always been one of the highlights of my trip. I awoke with a headache, but even that did not deter me from doing what I have always done on my first morning in San Diego: get the buffet! As the hostess sat me at my table, I said in my cool, casual voice, “I’ll just have the breakfast buffet.” The hostess said, “I’m sorry, they did not put the buffet out this morning.” My cool, casual voice caught in my throat like a cat with its tail stepped on. No breakfast buffet? But…but….I’m Tim. This is my “Farewell Tour.” Oh, the humanity! For the record, what I did order was very good, but for the first time, I was unable to get the first morning buffet. Sad face.

Okay, nothing here is worthy of being called “dramatic life challenges,” but my routine has been disrupted! While I pride myself in thinking outside the proverbial box, my friends and family will tell you I will usually step out of that box when I’m good and ready. I don’t mind being unpredictable, as long as I can plan for it. But ever so often, it feels like God comes up behind me, places His loving hand on my shoulders….and shoves! And then I’m out of the box, outside the lines, out of my comfort zone, etc. I’m having to do what I’ve never done before, so that…hey, wait a minute! So that maybe I can have what I’ve never had. Hmmmmm.

I knew my “Farewell Tour” would be different this year, as I’m looking at things as one who is between ministries. Michael Chanley, the director of INCM, has said that there are new innovations this year in the conference. So the routine, which has already been different, will be even more so. And my “Farewell Tour” may just be the thing to force me to do what I’ve never done in order to get what I’ve never had.

Bring it!

CPC 12: PRELUDE 2: "CPC, WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME?"

In a very short time, I will be heading off to my 7th (but not in a row) Children's Pastor's Conference in San Diego. This is somewhat bittersweet, as my church leadership recently changed directions in such a way that I was somewhat forced to resign from children's ministries. So I'm heading to CPC without the CP part (the church had already paid for me to go before the changes, so I still get to go!).

I was thinking about this year, and how my expectations will be different without a local church on which to try out all the new stuff. But the more I thought about why I go to CPC, the more the same reasons I go every year still make sense to me.

*Refreshing. Contrary to popular perception, children's ministry involves long hours of hard work. Everyone needs a break and CPC gives me just that: a much needed, much appreciated departure from the routine. When I arrive at the resort in San Diego, often the first thing out of my mouth as I gaze at the impossibly blue sky is a sigh of relief.

*Recharging. Electric razors, cell phones, and children's ministers have one thing in common: they all need to be plugged in from time to time for a healthy dose of new energy. I don't know how to say this, but CPC vibrates with energy. Whether it is like-minded people who share the same struggles as me, or the bustling Resource Center that makes me wonder how I ever got along without some of this stuff, or the workshops that inject new ideas and concepts, or the general sessions that lift me up, CPC buzzes with what I need to keep going another year.

*Renewing. There are so many levels to this. I think of things like renewing my spirit--there are times I can just lock myself in my hotel room and pray and study and meditate on God's Word, or cry out to the Lord during worship in the general sessions. Or there is renewing my mind--learning new ideas, new ways of doing things from men and women who are smarter than I am about certain things. Or there is the renewing of relationships: over the years, I have come to regard my fellow conference attendees as family and CPC as one giant family reunion.

*Rewinding. I hate it when I'm trimming the lawn and the line on the spool runs out or gets out of whack. Sometimes, the line of my ministry runs out or doesn't quite feed out the right way. CPC helps me diagnose the problems, then gives me the right tools to wrap my proverbial thread tight enough to feed out and benefit the kids and families we serve.

*Recreating. Okay, that sounds like a stretch, but really, recreation is just that: re-creating. And I will fully confess before all assembled: CPC is FUN! Sure, I'll impress the "powers that be" with tales of "classes" that start at 8:00 a.m. and sessions that can last until 10:30 or 11:00 at night. But honestly, I don't think I ever laugh as hard as I do at CPC or smile as broadly or weep as profusely or just plain enjoy myself as much as I do when I'm at this conference. It's San Diego in late winter, people....what's not to enjoy?

Is it worth it? YES. Even for someone who is between ministries. See you in San Diego!

EASY-TO-USE AND TRANSFER?

I confess: the lessons I did as a Children's Pastor were not easily transferable to other teachers. Guilty as charged. Here is my statement:

I've been sorting through files on my computer. Pictures, notes, power point presentations, and lesson plans of all shapes and sizes. One of the power point presentations (a rather creative re-telling of the story of Esther using concepts and characters that were popular with the kids at the time)caught my eye. Speaking as one who does not like to "toot his own horn," I had to honestly conclude something about the presentation.

It was good!

And then I remembered the work that went into it. Hours of studying the Biblical text itself, finding the right graphics, putting everything together for a presentation that lasted maybe seven minutes. And why? Because I believed the kids deserved something more than a lesson I read over the night before during commercials for my favorite television show.

I'm not against easy-to-prepare lessons, mainly because I know that hours of hard work went into making these lessons easy to prepare. I'm not saying that I've never used low prep curriculum or that I've never (perish the thought) "winged it" with a teacher's manual. But even the simplest of curriculum still propels me to study the Biblical text, to understand how it fits into the scope and sequence, to practice the lesson, maybe even come up with a better way to present the lesson.

I concede that this approach means the lesson isn't as easily transferable. I can hand another teacher the curriculum, but I can't transfer the study and preparation and creativity and prayer to that teacher. I know of churches that think this a liability. I believe it is a strength.

Teachers of kids: PREPARE.

CPC12: PRELUDE 1: "FIRST TIME ON A STRANGE PLANET"

2003
The portal to a strange, new world

Just like you never forget your first kiss, your first tricycle, or your first car, you never forget the first time you attended Children's Pastors' Conference.

I recently watched the highlight video from my very first CPC back in 2003 and the memories and feelings of that week still churn within me. It was as though I had stepped onto the surface of another planet in a another galaxy, surrounded by fellow astronauts who were either seasoned (but no less excited) explorers or those who, like me, were lost and amazed at the same time.

Of course, it didn't help that my first activity was the church tour and that the first church we toured was Saddleback Church! I knew about big churches--I used to attend a mega-church--but to discover that my current home church could fit comfortably within the "footprint" of just their children's building with room to spare put a whole new perspective on what was possible. The other churches were no less impressive, but the two lessons I took away from the church tours were 1) We may not have the money to do that, but we certainly have the creativity to do this, and 2) The problems that kidmins face are the same everywhere, only the scale is different.

By the time we returned to the Town and Country Resort, I felt I had successfully acclimated to this strange, new world. And then I entered the Resource Center...

I'm not sure if I actually did this, but I felt as though I was standing there, my jaw open, unable to breath for several moments. It was like a carnival had landed on the planet. Vendors and providers of every size lined up in row after colorful row. Resources I had never known were available called my name. Many of the booths were staffed by people whose names I had only seen on the covers of books or cd's. The experts were right there...and I could actually talk to them! As the week went by, the Resource Center was the place to hang out. I didn't have to buy anything (although I did), I could just soak it all in, ask questions, and get ideas.

To be perfectly honest, the rest of the week is kind of blurry in spots. Not that it wasn't excellent--it was phenomenal--but it was so BIG that my mind has a hard time summarizing the experience. I remember during the general sessions that I never laughed so hard or wept so much as I did during the music, the skits, and the messages. The workshops were great and I still refer back to my notes from time to time. The big amusement park party was great. While I chose not to risk severe injury in some of the games, the pure fun (and great food!) made it a night to remember. And, of course, the opportunity to meet so many co-laborers for children, men and women who made me feel for the first time that I was not alone in my own struggles. I kept in touch with many of them...and many I confess, I have lost touch with. But their faces are also part of my memories.

The most interesting observation about my experience at Children's Pastors' Conference is this: the thoughts and feelings have never changed. I will be attending my 7th CPC in San Diego (not in a row) and every year, I still have that same "frontier planet" excitement. Oh, sure, I'm one of the seasoned veterans now. I can make my way around the resort without feeling like I'm lost. I'm a little more selective about what I look at in the Resource Center (being perpetually broke helps!). But I still feel every single emotion of the previous year come out for a good scrubbing at the first general session. I still feel the warmth of handshakes and hugs from colleagues new and returning. And I still get a lump in my throat during the last general session, knowing that it's time to head back to earth.

Because my ministry situation has changed (at this writing, I'm no longer the Children's Pastor at my church), I don't know if the 2012 CPC will be my last or not. But regardless, I'll never forget my first in 2003. Or my second (04), third (07), fourth (08), fifth (10), or sixth (11). Come to CPC...you'll never forget either!

A QUICK ANKLE POST

So a funny thing happened right before my birthday. I have a particular recurrent form of arthritis that usually hits my already weak ankles. Recurrent means it doesn't hit too often. Recurrent means I never know when it's going to hit. The first time was about 3 years ago. I think I might have had one or two minor bouts since then, which I didn't bother checking because they were relatively short.

But on the evening December 30, I felt the familiar discomfort and experienced the minor swelling. I limped through my birthday breakfast and festivities on the 31st. I continued to limp through the work week...each step getting more and more painful and all the more slower. Then on Thursday, it was starting to feel better. Or so I thought. Long story short (HA...like that's gonna happen!), it flaired up more intensely. Even the touch of blanket on my foot brought waves of pain. I couldn't walk on it. Ice and ibuprofen took a little edge off, but just enough for me to get to the restroom and back. I spent most of the weekend of the 7th and 8th on the couch, unable to spring to my feet when the Broncos claimed their first round playoff victory. I decided it was time to visit a doctor.

Please understand that a doctor visit for me is a gamble. I am one of the many uninsured Americans you read about in the paper. I have made doctor visits, payed my money, and five minutes later told the equivilent of "take two aspirin and call me in the morning." So the last thing I wanted was to dip into our already strangled budget to hear the professional tell me to elevate my foot, apply ice, & take ibuprofen. But my friends, family, and my own common sense won out over manly pride and I visited the doctor.

Good news: I didn't sprain it, break it, tear ligiments, etc. I guess I can't say I hurt it in any "cool" sort of way. Hence the bad news: I'm just getting old.

The doctor prescribed something which made me question my sanity as to why I did not want to go the doctor in the first place. Within 24 hours, I was mobile. That is, the pain decreased significantly and the mobility increased markedly. I went from couch bound to doing a fairly decent impression of Fred Sanford (look it up on YouTube). At this rate, I'll be doing the 100-yard dash by Friday. And to think I could have felt better sooner.

Okay, I wouldn't be a very good minister if I didn't take advantage of an opportunity to pull an application or two from my experience. So here I go:

1. Don't be afraid to take advise from others. I know there are many exceptions to this, but many times, your friends and family are trying to help. At times, they will see things that you might miss. God may very well have placed them in your path to give you a hint or nudge in the right direction.

2. Are you letting your pride or sense of human sufficiency keep you from what the Lord has in store for you? As the little kids' song so excellently puts it: "little ones to Him belong. They are weak, but HE IS STRONG!"

YEAH, I SAID IT

The following post does not necessarily reflect the views of the leadership, staff, and congregation of my church, nor of the conservative, Christian, evangelical community in whole and in part.

In other words, I'm about to "step in it."

I have no problems with the expression "Happy Holidays." And I really don't think a lot of people have a problem with "Merry Christmas" either. I do think, however, that by making these expressions the nexus of the so-called "war on Christmas," we are missing the entire point.

Why do people say "Happy Holidays?" While I'm sure someone has a sinister motive and I'm sure some (especially in the retail industry) have a desire not to offend potential customers, I think most people say "Happy Holidays" out of a sincere expression of peace and goodwill. In this increasingly hard-edged, selfish, and cynical society, it feels good to have someone take the time and wish me well. Why squelch that by rebuking the greeter?

Why do people say "Merry Christmas?" For me (and many Christians), it is a theological statement, a way of saying, "Let's celebrate the fact that God the Son, the Second Person of the Trinity, came to earth as a baby, born of a biological virgin, lived a sinless life, died to pay the price for your sins and mine, and rose again on the third day, so that by trusting Him as your Lord and Savior, you can have everlasting life and a day to day relationship with Him, even as you look forward to His return!" For others, it's merely a nod to the "religious" nature of December 25. But I think a surprisingly large number of people say "Merry Christmas" for the same reason they say, "Happy Holidays": it's nice to say and it's nice to hear.

Puh-leese don't tag me with the label of "politically correct" (them's fightin' words, pard!). I think some of the things that schools, government institutions, and businesses do during December are silly and illogical. I don't know how many have nefarious motives, but a lot of them are just not thinking this through. Hanukkah is not the "Jewish Christmas." Thanksgiving and New Year are not Christmas. They put up all the decorations and trappings and lights of Christmas, then stick up a banner that says "Happy Holidays." As the governor of one state responded to the move to call the state "Christmas tree" a "Holiday Tree": "what other holidays celebrate using a decorated fir tree?" With prolonged use, the whole political correct thing collapses under its own weight.

But I think by insisting that folks utter "Merry Christmas", we are imposing a kind of "Christian political correctness" on the landscape. We gladly proclaim the "Reason for the season", but we must not forget that the Reason goes a lot deeper than a greeting. There is a war, but it's a war on Christ Himself, not just His birth. It's a war that is fought every single day in the hearts and minds of human beings. It is a war in which Jesus is the ultimate victor and in which one day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). And that is greater than any mere December greeting.

Happy Holidays
(yeah, I said it).

A BIG AND SOBERING ANNOUNCEMENT

Effective December 31 (my birthday, by the way!), after 15 years of service, I will no longer be the children's pastor at my church.

To say I have mixed emotions is like saying Shakespeare was a good writer. It is the epitome of understatements. On the one hand (trying to look for silver linings here!), there is less on my plate now, freeing me to finish some other projects in the church office (I'm employed as the administrative assistant for the church. I did the whole children's ministry gig for free), giving me a little more couple time with my wife or releasing me to get some badly needed yard work finished. Plus there's the whole lack of stress thing, which anybody in ministry can tell you is a part of the whole ministry package. Okay, silver linings, check.

But then there's the other side. How do I just walk away from something that has been life and passion for a decade and half (and actually longer, since I regularly did children's ministries in high school, college, and other churches before coming to this current situation)? "Building His Kingdom, Reaching His Kids" was the theme of the first Children's Pastor's Conference I attended, but it's also been a theme of this ministry. I sincerely, honestly, truly want kids to learn about Jesus and have tons of fun! Since I'm officially on the "older" side of the age scale, I've been impressed with the contagiousness of kids' energy. I don't know how to explain it, but for some reason, any aches, pains, and lack of energy vanish from the time I walk in the door to the time I leave. I'll be doing dance moves and goofy characters during the ministry time, only to feel like every bone in my body has been twisted out of shape when I leave. How can I leave a ministry that constantly demands the very best of my adaptability and creativity and gives me avenues to exercise and apply infectious joy? And then there's the smiles, the laughs, the tears, the high fives, handshakes, and hugs. Why am I leaving all that?

I will not bore or trouble you on a public blog with the internal matters of church politics and demographic targeting. Let me be general for a moment (understanding that nearly all churches encounter this with any ministry, not just kids): when the leadership of a church does not share or support the vision for children's ministry, there are few options left. Children's Ministry is a function of the local church and, as such, is under whatever board controls the vision and direction of that church. That's the way it is and that is the way it should be. That does not mean I agree with the specifics of the board's actions and reasonings. I have expressed the specifics to my pastor, but there are very few others with whom I will share the proverbial "nitty gritty." If you are local and curious, I will direct you to the elder board for their take. Causing a ruckus will serve no one.

So I'm resigning. I'll still be at my church for the foreseeable future as I'm still employed in the office. And just because I'm leaving my unpaid position does not mean I'm leaving "children's ministry." I will still be in San Diego for the 2012 Children's Pastors' Conference. I may even have time to blog more and share at least some of the thimble-full of knowledge and experience I may have gleaned over the last 15 years. I may make myself available once again for pulpit supply and guest speaking, seeing as my Sundays are not as tight as they once were. I don't know yet specifics yet, as I'm still in the praying, grieving, and "what's next" stage. But one thing that has been resounding around my brain is this: as important and integral as children's ministry is to my life, it is not God. Think about that--in whatever area of your life is important--that area is not God. God is God...and I serve Him.

Thank you for your prayers and support. And as rule #3 says in our Sunday morning kidmin: "Learn about Jesus and have tons of fun!"

HARMONY AND TRINITY

Quick disclaimer: it would not surprise me in the least if someone else has already written on this; particularly those who are in the music field. I didn't do an exhaustive search for this theme, I just wrote what was on my mind at the time.

I love music and I love to sing and I know enough to distinguish good music from bad music (I know enough to know my own singing voice is highly untrained and undisicplined. In other words, no American Idol for me!). Within the whole allowance of personal taste and opinion, I can tell when a note is missed or a rhythym is out of place. I don't enjoy the kind of heavy metal screaming type of singing, but I can appreciate the guy who can play his guitar at a zillion miles per hour in something that resembles a melody. I have favorite songs in dozens of genres and styles. I love music.

One thing I love is a good, tight harmony. I just finished listening to Celtic Woman sing "Oh, Holy Night." Incredible. I enjoy the GoFish guys as they let loose with "Little Drummer Boy." Plug in some of the gospel quartets out there and you'll hear such a seamless blending of voices, it sends chills up and down your spine. I love great harmony.

You know what I like the most about harmony? If you listen to each individual voice, they're singing something different. Each voice is making a distinct sound. But put them all together and it sounds like one smooth voice singing the song.

But here's the part that gets me: next time you hear a really close harmony, notice that the voices sound like an unbelieveably rich single voice. But if you concentrate really hard, you can actually hear each individual voice come through. Distinct voices (I can almost hear them) blending together into one voice (I can hear it).

I got to thinking about the Trinity as I was listening to "Little Drummer Boy" by GoFish. Listen, there is not a single earthly illustration of the Trinity that can fully explain the Godhead, so please do not read too much detail into this. It's just that each Person of the Godhead is distinct, but are also, at the exact same time, one voice! Just like an incredibly tight harmony, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct, but one.

Once again, don't take the illustration beyond where it is supposed to go. The theologian in me can already pick this apart. But the music lover in me is in awe.

Listen to the music and glorify God.

THE SEVEN SIGNS OF THE HOLIDAYS

What if you woke up one morning and there were no calendars? Why, how could you tell when it was....Christmas?

Do not despair, oh Gregorianally challenged friend, for I now bring you: The 7 Signs of the Holidays, in no particular order:

1. McDonald's eggnog shakes. Of course, these started earlier this year, but no problem...nothing says the holidays like a thick eggnog shake (minus the cherry).

2. The end of Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. Yup, when Santa rides in on that unbelievably tall float, it's time for the season to begin.

3. The Santa hat. I have a friend who wears a Santa hat and puts the image on Facebook. When I see that profile pic, I know that Christmas can't be far behind.

4. Activity begins at the Christmas light house. There's a house in town that decorates with spectacular music synchronized lighting. When I pass by and see extra people crawling on and around the building like industrious ants, I get excited because I know that the holiday season is getting close.

5. Steve's 25 Days of Christmas music. Mr. Steve Tanner, who must have enough vinyl in his record collection to supply protective gloves to every hospital on the eastern seaboard, shares a rarely heard Christmas offering every day. This year, in honor of his impending fatherhood, Steve presents Navidaddy. And the neat thing, it's free. Give it a listen here

6. Mannheim Steamroller. 'Nuff said

7. Christmas decorations in the stores. Now this one can get out of hand; I mean, who needs ornaments next to the Halloween masks? But I notice that each day the decorations get more and more pronounced, until after Thanksgiving when everything lights up! It's like a great big party (now if all the guests would just realize who the party is for!).

A LESSON IN BEING VISIBLE

Some days the lessons come by accident.

It was a typically busy Sunday. Kids were already starting to come in before the service, and I was greeting them, talking to them, saying "hi" to the parents, and attending to a few dozen other things. I then had a moment where I needed to go to the foyer to give a message to someone.

As I made way past the hallway, the little girl with the cute ribbon in her hair broke away from her parents to run up to me and give me a smile and a hug. She had been absent for awhile, so I talked to her and told her how much we had missed her. After our conversation, I walked a few more steps and heard, "Hi, Teacher Tim," "Hey, Teacher Tim," "Mom, there's Teacher Tim!" Another hug, a couple of high fives, handshakes, and knuckle bumps later, I finally delivered my message. I turned and met a family who was there for the very first time. I spoke with them for a few moments, then spoke with a fairly new family who had been coming for a couple of weeks. They said how much they're kids enjoyed our program and they were thinking that maybe they had found their new church home. As I turned to go, I met a parent who had some questions and a volunteer who wondered when she was scheduled.

In the course of 12 minutes, I had more exposure then I usually have on a given Sunday. You see, I always try to be visible to the parents. In fact, one of the changes I made in the "way I do things" was to quit doing take down tasks and instead talk to parents at the door (I describe it here). But this last Sunday, I was struck by another fact: people expect "Teacher Tim" in the children's area. But "Teacher Tim" in the main foyer is a treat! It was an energizing, affirming experience.

So as I continue to grow and build as a children's pastor, I want to make my "out of the box" appearances more deliberate. I want to be even more visible, so that kids and parents can identify someone who watches out and cares for children at our church.

REMEMBRANCE, REALITY, AND ROUNDUP

September 11, 2011 marked our children's ministry's sixteenth annual "Celebration Roundup." Part pep rally, part family reunion, Roundup is a kickoff party to the new school year. It's kind of loud, with lots of laughter and games and singing. Roundup is the embodiment of one of our weekly rules at Sunday Morning Celebration: "Learn about Jesus and have tons of fun."

And September 11 was also the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Thousands lost their lives in the assaults, as well as in the war that followed. It was most certainly a solemn day.
Getting ready for Roundup was difficult. I spent a good portion of the day assembling props that, for some reason, would not stay assembled. I attempted to scale a 12 foot ladder to hang some streamers, only to discover that my knee and my own lack of height would not allow me to go to the uppermost rung (hooray for a very tall high schooler who fastened the decorations for me). That evening, I went home to put together some video for the next morning, but my video camera was not working. The next morning (talk about last minute!) I discovered some songs that would be perfect, only to have another equipment malfunction ruin that idea. And as is the case every year, I didn't get to the church as early as I would have wanted.
Yet in spite of the obstacles and setbacks, Celebration Roundup went great. The kids sang. Some of our teens jumped in and led songs. We played games. We laughed. We talked about the coming year and where we would be in the Scripture. No question about it: we learned about Jesus and had tons of fun. All the hard work, all the preparation, and even all the setbacks were worth it. Roundup 2011 was a success.

But in the midst of it all, I was wondering if anybody would ask the question: should we be doing something as fun and light hearted as Roundup on such a day of deep solemnity and remembrance as 9-11? I imagined a gathering of leaders who would be asking how they planned to commemorate the attacks: a moment of silence, a sounding of bells, perhaps a solemn song? Our roomful of kids would be spending the time playing assorted games and dancing to upbeat music. How respectful is that?

For the record, we did have a moment during Roundup to talk about 9-11 and its significance. As I spoke to the children, many of whom were not even born on that terrible day, I emphasized that they live in a country where they are free to worship and that no matter how many things bring us down, we still live in a great country. And with a little boy holding the American flag and an older boy leading us, we said the Pledge of Allegiance and prayed for our country. It was a simple, but moving moment.

That brief "mini-devotion" on 9-11 was the reconciliation of any concerns about the appropriateness of the day. You see, I'm a children's pastor. I work with kids. And I sincerely want kids to be kids: to laugh, to sing, to dance, to praise with whole hearts. In short, I want them to "learn about Jesus and have tons of fun." But as I reflected on 9-11, there are groups and cultures where kids most decidedly do not learn about Jesus and do not have tons of fun. Some roadblocks are environmental or economic, but some are man-made, by those who want to teach their children early on how to kill and hate in the name of whatever belief they embrace. How unbelievably sad.

9-11 was a tragedy, but it would be worse if we allowed it to stop reaching kids as kids, if it would still one foot, or quiet one small voice from worshipping the Lord.