There are two basic methods for doing church. We either operate the church as a service or attempt to build the church as a community. Both methods seem to lead to success. Cell group churches, some of which have grown MONSTROUS, live and die by the premise that church equals community. On the flip side, churches that provide "spiritual services" to those who attend can experience just as much growth.
So does this relate to how I do children's ministry?
My answer is yes. At my last ministry assignment I followed a "kids church as a service" model almost exclusively. Small groups and group discussions happened rarely. Most often we focused on large group, leader driven activities. We were effective.
However, at this ministry assignment I'm finding that putting on a good large group program is not as effective. I'm beginning to operate more an more in a community driven format. Small groups, discussions, and kid driven activities seem to leave lasting impressions. It seems to be working.
At the end of the day, creating a feeling of "being part of something" is essential to kids ministry. If the kids embrace the program it's an effective program.
So here's my question: Does a leader driven "church as a service" or "community driven" model work better for the kids you minister to?
