By: Melissa Chapman
This past Sunday, I had the privilege of making a special announcement about our Awana program, and I wasn’t alone! I invited my 3rd grader, Giyanna, to join me. Giyanna has a unique backstory as she is being raised not by her own mom & dad but by her loving grandparents who attend Grace Church; she shared her heart and love of Awana with the congregation. Giyanna is one of our Lucky Awana clubbers. Not every child gets the blessing of a strong “Plan B” when life doesn’t go as expected, and many who attend Awana come from broken or troubled homes. Some children don’t even have the opportunity to participate in church. But Giyanna stood confidently before the congregation, radiating joy as she explained why she loves coming to Awana.
She talked about how much she enjoys the fun games, singing the songs, and, most importantly, learning Bible verses. Giyanna even recited two of her favorite verses: John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” and 1 Corinthians 15:4 – “And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the scriptures.” It was a beautiful moment that reminded us all of the powerful impact Awana has on our children, helping them grow in faith and knowledge of God’s Word.
After thanking Giyanna and sending her off to Sunday school, I turned my attention to the congregation with an important question: Would you like to volunteer for this ministry?
I’m so glad you asked, “What do you do as a volunteer?”
We already have leaders in place to handle the bulk of the night. Your role is to guide the kids through their Awana journey. When they arrive, you spend time with them, helping them feel welcome. We begin with a flag salute, followed by large group time, where the kids hear a message. Then comes Epic Game Madness, where they have an absolute blast (don’t worry, you don’t have to come up with the games; it’s all done for you!). Afterward, you sit with your small group of kids during verse time, helping them work on their memory verses.
Awana runs every Tuesday from September to March. Maybe you’re thinking, “Melissa, there are nights I might be late or can’t make it.” That’s okay! Or, “I don’t know my Bible well enough.” Guess what? You can learn alongside the kids. And if you’re worried you’re too old or don’t have the energy, give us just 30 minutes during verse time to plant a seed in a child’s life.
If you find yourself spending Tuesday nights with a remote control, a book, or a sewing project, take a moment and ask, “Could I be using my time, talent, and treasure to further the gospel?” This is not to guilt anyone; I simply ask you to pray about whether God might be calling you to help plant seeds in these young lives.
You see, a seed well-planted grows into a tree with branches that bear fruit, feeding many. I don’t believe for a moment that Giyanna will lead only one person to the Lord in her lifetime. She will lead many, and they, in turn, will lead many more.
Will you join us?
There is still an opportunity to serve. Sign up online or Show up Tuesday night by 6:15! Let’s work together to plant seeds that will bear fruit for generations to come!
