Relationships…
Discipleship happens best in relationships. Or as we like to say at Restore discipleship happens best in community.
Discipling Family Disciplers
For kids that come every week to our ministries, we get between one and three hours to disciple them. For kids that aren’t consistent, it’s even less. The primary spiritual influencer in any child’s life will be the caring adult they live with. This means, to be the most effective ministry leaders we can be, we need to prioritize discipling families as much as we prioritize discipling kids.
This begins with helping parents, grandparents, and other caring adults feel supported, encouraged, and equipped to be this influence in their kids’ lives. That means helping them feel like your ministry is a place where they belong.
First Impressions
While your tendency may be to make sure that kids feel welcomed and known as soon as they walk through your doors, it is important to make sure that their whole family feels that way. That means being intentional about connecting with the person dropping them off. Check in with them. Chat with them. Show them that you care about them—not just their kids in your ministry.
Relationship Building
One of the best ways for families to feel like they belong is not just being connected to you and the church but to one another. This happens with an intentional focus on outreach, togetherness, and fun! We will host Family Events on a regular basis. These events are more than just things to do—they are strategic relationship builders. As families connect with one another at church, they will more and more see that we are God’s family on mission together to help the next generation know and grow in Him.
Showing Up
Face to face connections, consistent communication, and relationship building will help your families know that you care and that your church is a place they belong. As you get to know them, show up for them. Let’s support your families by showing up outside of your church walls and events. Be a network of care when they are in need. Be their biggest cheerleader and a shoulder to cry on. By showing up, you will help both kids and their families know they are seen, known, and loved.