Jesus loved children. He even went so far to say that we would never see the kingdom of heaven unless we became like children. Anyone who has a special love for kids can find many ministry opportunities. Caring for these little ones will bring rewards like nothing else.
Ministries for Children
While you can always find a need for ministers in church activities for children, you can also discover many opportunities outside the church as well. From a few hours a week to a lifetime commitment, you can make a difference in young lives.
- Visit a children’s hospital and bring a stuffed animal, book or small toy to brighten a child’s day. Offer to pray with them or just spend time with them to help them forget about where they are.
- Put together a care package for children in homeless shelters. Items such as a blanket, stuffed toy and a book can offer comfort when they can’t find it elsewhere.
- Sign up in a local community center or library to offer free tutoring to kids who need extra help.
- Become a Big Brother or Big Sister and commit to one or two hours a week to mentor a young person who needs a positive influence.
- Purchase gifts at Christmas to donate to the local children’s agency for kids with no family or those whose parents can’t afford gifts.
You will also find numerous organizations dedicated to helping children in all kinds of situations. You can even sign up to give money to children who are living in poverty overseas. With so many options available, there is something you can do no matter what kind of time commitment you have.
While helping these children, you will also discover serving in kids’ ministry changes you. Get your own children involved and it will impact them as well. It will help all of you develop an appreciation for what you have while making you more aware of what others lack.
Going Deeper
For a few people involved in ministry, they can do even more. They can serve as respite workers for parents of foster children or even become foster parents themselves. Some may even be called to adopt a child with no family. This goes beyond your typical ministry and involves a long-term commitment.
Many children have no families and are all alone in this world. The impact a foster family has on these kids can’t be explained, but it literally changes lives. Not everyone is called to become this involved, but if the idea touches your heart, pray about it and then take the next step and learn more about what it takes to be a foster parent from online resources or your local family services agency.
