As the old year ends and a new year begins, I have been evaluating what we are doing with the Rooted Ministry at Westminster. When Brad Mercer asked me to work as Children’s Ministry Coordinator, there were about 20 children who were involved in all children's activities. Y’all, we now have that many on most Wednesday nights. Walker Coleman was in the first group that met on the first Wednesday night in February. Now, Walker is graduating from high school! Where has the time gone? When we started, I was the only teacher on Wednesday night. If you were a Little Worship volunteer on Sunday mornings, you led Little Worship at least 4 times a year. Now, we have a Children’s Choir, several classes on Wednesday nights, and no one leads Little Worship more than twice a year. God has surely blessed us.

As I reflect on these facts, I am struck by the understanding that these are not numbers. They are children. I am also struck by the responsibly of the job of training the next generation in a world that we can no long call Christian. I feel very inadequate for this task. So, as I have prayed about my fear, I have realized God’s faithfulness. God is the one who has brought the increase. This has been such a great relief. I don’t have to worry about the program, just honor God. However, this does not mean we do not prepare or plan

So how do we proceed in the task God has given us? First, we pray. We can do nothing without God’s blessing. Pray for me, for the Sunday School teachers, and most of all, the children. Next, share ideas. Tell me about your ideas. It may be just what is needed to help the children grow. Also consider helping teach the children. We need teachers and helpers. The adults are outnumbered. If you don’t think you can teach, we can still use you.

So, join me as I pray for our children. Also let me remind you, we have a great opportunity to improve our parenting and teaching skills. (And to all of us grandparents, what a great opportunity for us to hear what God has to say to us about our part in instructing the grandkids). We have the Parenting/Teacher conference coming up in February. Mark your calendar for February 19th and 20th. Kathryn has made it easy to register on the website. We will have supper on Friday and a lite breakfast on Saturday morning. We will be finished by 11:30 Saturday. Also there is child care for babies through 12 year olds. I really, really hope you will come and hear Dan Boulton. I have been in two seminars he has led, and I brought away great ideas. Make your commitment to train up the children God has given us!