Forming Young Disciples: A Kingdom Investment

Michelle Hartman, Communications Director
Steele Creek, North Carolina, US

In any ministry, intentional reflection and assessment are vital to growth. Just like any part of the church body, children’s ministry deserves thoughtful care, clear vision, and regular evaluation. When we take time to audit our ministries, we create space to celebrate strengths, address weaknesses, and renew our commitment to nurturing the next generation.

Why Auditing Ministries Matters

An audit is not about criticism — it’s about clarity. Ministry audits offer an opportunity to:

• • Ensure alignment with church mission and values
  • Recognize areas where resources are needed
  • Invite participation and feedback from volunteers, parents, and children
  • Set meaningful goals for growth and sustainability

When we stop and reflect, we gain perspective. We begin to ask the right questions: Is our ministry welcoming? Are we participating in formational activities that cultivate our faith in meaningful ways? Are we equipping and encouraging our volunteers?

The Crucial Role of a Healthy Children’s Ministry

Children’s ministry is not childcare during a sermon — it is formative, Spirit-led discipleship for young hearts and minds. A healthy children’s ministry:

• • Helps children experience God’s love in age-appropriate ways
  • Supports parents and caregivers as primary spiritual influencers
  • Builds belonging and spiritual identity from a young age
  • Creates safe, engaging environments for growth and questions

When we invest in the faith formation of children, we invest in the future of the Church.

Next Steps: What to Do After Your Audit

After completing the Children’s Ministry Assessment Tool, here are some clear next steps:

• • Review the Results with Your Team
    Celebrate areas of strength and name areas that need focused improvement.
  • Prioritize One or Two Areas for Growth
    Don’t try to fix everything at once. Choose key areas — like volunteer training or physical space — and focus there first.
  • Create an Action Plan
    Include timelines, needed resources, and clear roles for implementing changes.
  • Engage Families in the Process
    Ask for feedback and ideas from parents and guardians. Let them know their voices matter.
  • Equip and Encourage Your Volunteers
    Offer training, appreciation, and spiritual encouragement for those serving children.
  • Check in Regularly
    Set a rhythm (quarterly or biannually) to review progress and re-assess.
  • Pray for and with the Children
    Let your church community be reminded that children are not the church of the future — they are the church today.

A healthy children’s ministry doesn’t happen by accident — it’s the result of prayerful leadership, ongoing discernment, and Spirit-led vision. Let’s continue investing in our youngest disciples with wisdom, joy, and purpose.