I remember talking with Chris Yount-Jones about this great idea for a conference Group was going to put on for children’s ministry that was going to be focused primarily on helping those in Kidmin to network with and connect with each other. I was excited to hear about it then and am still excited about the potential Group’s Kidmin Conference has to meet one of the biggest needs I think exists in the world of Kidmin: peer mentoring relationships.
I am a people person. I don’t come across as an extrovert when people first meet me, but I thrive when I’m around people. I would’ve never survived my years as a full-time children’s pastor without all the connections and kidmin friends I made. As I’ve had the privilege of stepping outside a full-time position and look at kidmin leadership from the perspective of an observer who’s “been there,” I am seeing more and more that most kidmin leaders are essentially isolated with little or no peer mentors. By a peer mentors, I mean friends who are living out the same struggles you are as a kidmin leader who can speak into your life to offer advice, support, prayer. Additionally, you are able to speak into the life of a peer mentor as well.
I am excited at the prospect of Group’s Kidmin Conference to cultivate an atmosphere where kidmin leaders can begin or expand their network of peer mentors. If you are a kidmin leader, I encourage you to seriously consider reserving your spot at the Kidmin Conference. Take advantage of the Heart-to-Heart Conversations and Connect Groups that will be key parts of the conference.
I hope to see you in Chicago!
