First-Ever How2 a Wow2!

We just completed our first weekend of regional How2 Conferences in two cities! And it was a Wow! Take a look at what participants said about the first-ever How2 Children's Ministry Conferences...(and go to group.com/how2 to find one in a city near you this spring)

"I have been equipped, connected and motivated to continue to dream and work out a growing children's ministry."--Heidi Rogers, Elmhurst, IL

"The HOW2 Conference has made a lasting impact on our children's ministry. We are implementing some of the ideas right now. God has used this conference to mold our ministry into the one He wants."--Brad Bennett, Kansas City, KS

"Practical - ideas we actually practiced not just heard about."--Lori Cruden, Rockford, IL

"One of the best conferences for small churches and large churches alike. The information presented can be used no matter how large or small."--Evan Sheckler, LaHarpe, IL

"It's a wonderful experience to be able to bond with the children's ministry group. It allowed us to feed off each other and grow together."--Jody Johnston, Sheridan, IL

"Bring as many of your leadership team as possible to make connections and so everyone is on the same page."--Christy Hager, Millington, IL

"HOW2 includes hands-on activities that help participants internalize the message. Whether it is about helping families with special needs or helping volunteers feel valued, we all walk away with a better compass to guide our children and volunteers with."--Jody Spicer, Cedarburg, WI

"A must for all struggling Children's Ministries for encouragement and how-tos. A must for thriving ministries to keep you on your toes."--Stephanie Whittenhall, Medinah, IL

Don't miss out on this revolutionary training conference--there's nothing else like it for your leadership team!

Are We Risking Enough?

I was struck by something Steven Spielberg said while receving the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes ceremony.

In talking about his very first movie (at 6, I think), he said he had a sense of "am I going to be able to get away with this?" And that feeling has followed him through every movie he's ever made. In fact, he said if the movie didn't make him wonder, "Am I going to be able to get away with this?" then he would pass on the project.

I'm grateful that I work for Group which has a culture of risk and innovation. And we've learned that when we do "play it safe" instead of pushing the envelope, we don't serve our customers as well.

I think greatness requires a big element of risk. Are you doing anything that makes you wonder "Am I going to get away with this?"

God Bless Those Parents!

I just have to say that I was really struck by what parents go through to get their little ones to church yesterday. After serving with the 2 year olds (they're so wonderful!), I walked through our children's area to get to big church. I had to wade through parents with babies bundled up in car seats, diaper bags on shoulders, toddlers crying sometimes, and more. It just struck me that these parents maintain a strong commitment to their families being in the presence of God in our church--and that made me grateful for the efforts they put forth to let us love and teach their children.