There's nothing quite like the Activate experience for those who really want to take their leadership to the next level. Held at The Tops Conference Centre at Stanwell Tops, south of Sydney, you get to hang out and really get to know well kids ministry professionals with years of experience, heaps of knowledge and a huge heart for sharing their passion and know-how.
At Activate there's time to relax, chat and pray about your own ministry and hear about others'. Because there are only a dozen or so delegates, you can quiz the speakers, ask their advice and discuss your latest challenges with them.
But it's not all talk. You get to see, every day, top quality kids ministry at Tammy Tolman's kids camp with up to 200 kids aged 8-11 years, then go back and talk about what you've seen and why it's done that way. You don't have any responsibility for the kids - they have their own leaders - and Activate delegates are in their own area, both for sleeping and for the Activate seminars. BUT Activate delegates have the opportunity to be part of a few specific activities where they can develop their skills while being coached by the speakers.
Here's what Andrea, children's ministry coordinator at Emu Plains Baptist Church, one of last year's delegates, said about her experience.
I loved the ACTIVATE conference because it was a multi-dimensional, immersion experience, catering for all learning styles for both adult and child learners. This approach which was at all times challenging yet highly supportive, gave us time to be refreshed, updated and taught by an experienced and dynamic team while observing the children’s program unfold. There were many opportunities to reflect and share with both other participants and the teaching team. The opportunity to participate in the program while being mentored by the team was invaluable and I will never forget it. I would highly recommend the entire program (rather than just the one day conference) for anyone involved in children’s ministry regardless of skill level or experience. The one day program, while terrific is a bit like reading a review for a film or best seller without actually seeing the film or reading the book. Finally, the joy and delight on the children’s faces will remain with me always and particularly seeing so many children commit their lives to the Lord.
More information including dates and how to register.