Delaware Evangelical churches have more in common than their foundational belief in a Risen Savior. As you can see in the following vision and description statements (provided on respective church websites), they are also focused on seeing people come into, and grow in, relationship with God the Father, through His Son, Jesus Christ.
"To lead people to become mature disciples of Jesus, who love God and others." - Love of Christ Church
“We are a family of people who aren’t perfect, but have been radically touched by God’s grace through Jesus Christ. With God’s help and only by His power, we want the message of what Jesus has done to change our lives, and to change the world.” - Ogletown Baptist Church
“Faith church exists to worship God and proclaim the message of eternal life, radical transformation, and unspeakable joy through Jesus Christ.” - Faith Presbyterian Church
“To grow believers to maturity in Christ and expand the Church locally and around the world.” - Grace Church
“Seek, love, and care for people like Jesus does.” - CityLight Church
It is a beautiful thing to live in a state where there are so many who purpose to see the love and light of the gospel transform lives! While this may read as an endorsement of these congregations, it is actually an invitation to them (and every church in the Delaware area!). So, please take a moment to forward this post to your church - we need your help in extending this important invitation!
The Word
“At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Matthew 18:1-6
“Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
The Opportunity
Children are not just the next generation, they are human beings, created in the image of God. The vision statements, mission agendas, and Great Commission from Jesus Himself, do not exclude those under the age of 18. Rather, they are an open invitation to proclaim the glorious Good News of Jesus to all people!
As church leaders, you are committed to bringing the transformative power of the gospel to every individual in your congregation. Many churches have young adult ministries, small groups geared towards specific interests, and outreach opportunities. Most churches invest in making their buildings and online worship experiences as inviting as possible. A growing number are focusing on providing a safe place of Biblical instruction to children. But have you considered the benefit - perhaps necessity - of having your children and youth leaders trained in handling trauma?
The Story
Once upon a time, there was a sunny Sunday school classroom. The volunteer teachers loved doing sing-a-long time, coloring sheets, and puppet shows with the children they ministered to every week. One Sunday, a new little boy joined the group. At first, he seemed to fit right in; but as the sing-a-long time came to a close, so did his fists. Little Jack began swinging at other children; and when the teacher came to speak to him, he bopped her right on the nose! Mortified, the teacher had Jack’s parents called. As they began to explain the outburst, Jack’s mom replied with an apology. Later that week, she called to speak with the Children’s Pastor to explain that her son, Jack, had recently joined their family and was experiencing exceptional difficulty with transitions - which is why he was triggered by moving from songs to coloring. While compassionate to the mom, and little Jack’s extenuating circumstances, the Children’s Pastor informed mom that violent outbursts were not safe for the other children, or their workers, and thus little Jack would have to stay with mom and dad during church. Unfortunately, Little Jack can’t sit through a service. It’s much easier to just stream a service at home, and so the family leaves the church - without saying a word.
The Invitation
Whether your congregation worships as families, has a separate children’s church service, or implements Sunday school classes - the truth remains that children are an integral part of every congregation. And the unfortunate reality is, many of the children who walk through the doors of your church have experienced trauma. The question is: will your church make the most of the opportunity to minister to these children, or will they be a one time encounter?
Providing proper training to your staff and volunteers is investing in the eternal lives of children who are in desperate need of the Father’s love. You will be equipping them to see through challenges and behaviors, so that they can connect and fulfill the vision of your church through your youngest parishioners!
On May 1, Mid-Atlantic Orphan Care Coalition is hosting the Hope for the Journey Conference. This one day conference teaches Trust Based Relational Intervention - a scientifically proven, and Biblically based method of connecting; especially with those who have experienced trauma. While adoptive and foster parents are the primary attendees, it is an incredible opportunity for anyone working with children to develop skills and processes for reaching the children who are often hardest to reach.
Would you consider furthering the vision of your church, and the kingdom of God, by sending your staff and volunteers to this important conference?