On January 14-15, a regional Children’s Ministers’ Conference took place in Astrakhan (city in the south of Russia). It was attended by 20 children’s workers from several churches. The Lord richly blessed us with His presence.
The first day before lunch we spent in prayerful communion, asking God for spiritual strength, for new revelations and for new children’s workers in our region. In the afternoon, with the help of various interactive methods we analyzed the state of the children's ministry in our church and in the region. Together we assessed the results of the work in 2011, and planned in which areas we will need to enhance our work. We also made plans for the future and figured out how we can be helpful to each other in ministry.
Together we reflected how not to lose our zeal and calling while we all overwhelmed with everyday workload; how not to stop fighting for the souls of children and continue to serve God. It is so easy to get into self-realization, self-satisfaction mode and turn to clubs for interests. It is important to remember that this is a war in which God wants us to be winners.
On the second day we continued our fellowship. While praising and worshiping God, we once again felt His special presence. God and everyone said something deep in our hearts and we are thankful for that. Again we discussed together how we as children's ministers can grow spiritually. Skits shown helped us remembered, what needs children have and how they can be met. We are all very grateful to God for fellowship and look forward to further meetings.
Anna Chernyshenko
