by Trevecca Okholm, MA – Board member, Children’s Spirituality Summit
Our four values for Children’s Spirituality Summit begins with encouragement before moving
deeper into equipping, engaging, and exploring. We consider these to be the four “Es” of
effective ministry for those who engage in the trenches of ministry with children.
In this first forum post on the 4 “Es” I invite you to consider the value of encouragement, especially during this challenging era in the church. As we say on our website, our CSS gatherings are designed to give renewed vision, passion, and creativity. Helping you, our participants, to discover answers to important questions you may be asking, such as . . .
Does my work really matter?
Is my research relevant?
Am I making a difference in the lives of children?
We want to encourage you in the good work God is calling you to undertake.
One of the most effective ways to encourage others and be encouraged in your own ministry is to join others in the synergy that comes from spending time in person attending Children’s
Spirituality Summit. Something unique about our gathering is that from our inception (over two decades ago) we have intentionally brought those in academic settings—those who study, write, publish, develop curriculum, and teach students how to do ministry—together with those who serve in ministry with local congregations in the role of staff or volunteer.
I’ve been in the trenches of church ministry for more than three decades and much of that time I have been in partnership with CSS folks who have given me wonder-filled spaces of equipping, engagement, and exploration that have enhanced what I have been able to do by God’s grace.
Attending CSS affords the opportunity to ask and answer the questions that burn in all of us. To engage in meaningful dialogue on best practices, to share our discouragements and know that we are not only not alone, but we have allies! We explore the best and most creative thinking and return home with renewed perspectives, practices, and new ideas for nurturing children’s spirituality. And, by being connected in the room with one another, we encourage others while getting a big, healthy dose of encouragement ourselves! I’ve been in the trenches of church ministry for more than three decades and much of that time I have been in partnership with CSS folks who have given me wonder-filled spaces of equipping, engagement, and exploration that have enhanced what I have been able to do by God’s grace. The encouragement that comes with being in community is indeed the best cure for regaining perspective and passion!
We hope you’ll plan to join us when we gather in Chicago area May 21-23, 2024. In fact, I encourage you to join us!
Trevecca Okholm, MA, serves the church as a family ministry coach and consultant, speaker for parent groups and retreats, and as a trainer/facilitator for Worship & Wonder models of faith formation.