As we enter a new year, the 2nd half of the Awana year, there are three things that I believe an Awana Ministry Director (Commander) should be focusing on at this time.
The Awana Ministry Director is the leader, and planner, for the Awana clubs in your church. They need to look at what is happening currently as well as planning for the future. I believe that ministry leaders should be planning a minimum of 6 months ahead. While it may not be in complete details, the basics/foundation need to be laid and prepared.
Here are the three things that I believe an Awana Ministry Director should be focusing on this time of year:
Club Morale and Enthusiasm
As we reach the midway point of anything, discouragement can set in and we can get tired. Add to that the shortened days of winter (which are really getting longer) and people in general get tired. For me personally, I seldom see the sun as I drive to work in the dark and the sun has set shortly after I get home and on Awana nights I seldom see the sun! It can be draining and adversely affect our mood.
The appreciation you showed over the holidays will soon fade. Remember to thank the leaders for specific things over the next few months. Encourage them and the clubbers. Theme nights and participation in regional events can help keep the enthusiasm going.
Planning the Closing Program
This is one of those things where you are laying the groundwork. The complexity of your closing program will dictate how much planning is required. If you plan to have someone come in to make your closing a special and memorable event, then do you have them booked? Are they confirmed? Has the date for the closing been etched on the church calendar, not just “penciled in”? What will the closing look like, program order, etc? There is much to consider when planning the closing program. Over the next few months you will begin to assess how, and if, you will add time or do something special to help clubbers complete handbooks and begin to estimate the awards you will need to have on hand at the closing program.
Planning for the 2020-2021 Awana Year
Yes, it seems far off, but church calendars are already being set for 2021 in some churches. You may only be looking at a rough schedule of start/end times and how many club nights you will schedule, filling in theme nights, etc later, but it is important to look at where holidays fall, etc and how it may impact your Awana year. Doing this initial work now helps to minimize the rush later and any conflicts with the overall church calendar. Yes, various things may happen throughout the year that are unforeseen at this time, but this basic groundwork will be a valuable asset if that occurs.
Being an Awana Ministry Director is not always an easy task as we focus on today while planning for the future, but it is very rewarding as people rely on us and we see how God uses us to reach leaders and children. Be encouraged as we enter the 2nd half of the Awana year and look for ways God is moving in your ministry.
