Here's what 3 Kidmin's are saying about infuse

If you want to be the best kidmin leader you can be, Infuse is the opportunity you are waiting for! From learning leadership fundamentals to being relationship driven, you will look at how you function as a leader and how to go to the next level in your leadership ability. Not only do you dive into valuable leadership books, but you also have access to one of the greatest children’s leaders of all time and he is right at your fingertips! Any question you have or situation you are not sure how to handle, you can ask away and work through the situation with a team of coaches who have walked in your shoes before. In other words, if you don’t sign up for Infuse 9, you are missing out on an opportunity to take not only your ministry, but your entire church to a new level of partnering with families and their children to make God the best part of their life.-Carina Shockley 7 Hills Church Florence, KY

Infuse 8 has been life changing for me both personally and professionally. When I started I was a bit embarrassed as I’ve been in ministry for over 25 years but had always struggled with both self leadership and with organizational habits. I was also embarrassed to ask for help and so instead I would just privately struggle and wonder if I could ever figure it out.
When my chance for Infuse 8 opened up I jumped at it and I’m so thankful I did. I have already learned to embrace the way God wired me and for the first time in all my life, I don’t feel ashamed of the way God made me as leader but instead I feel more determined to develop as a leader. I know some solid skills to get things done as well as some principles that will help develop other leaders that God brings into my life or team. It has always been a dream to be organized and well prepared for events and ministry and now I am seeing it as a reality. I am making strides in the right direction with clarity and intentionality. 

I would highly recommend, wherever you are in your ministry experience to consider Infuse to develop yourself, your skills, etc. It will change you! Even my wife is excited with all the changes I’ve made. She told me, “I don’t fully know what you’re doing but whatever it is, Don’t Stop!!” I am and will be forever grateful for everything Jim and the other Coaches us. -Tom Bump- Cleaveland, OH

"Infuse has been an incredible experience for me. Being that I am a young leader, I don't have a whole host of knowledge or experiences when it comes to being a leader in ministry. For a while I was just "getting-by" trying to learn from different resources. However, since I started Infuse, my leadership has gone to the next level and I have learned more than I could have ever imagined. Jim is a wealth of knowledge and experiences and he's more than willing to share those so that other leaders can grow to be successful. Take advantage of the Infuse opportunity, you'll be glad you did.” -Lauren Wierzba, Demotte, IN

It's simple, to apply find out how you can be a part of Infuse this September.

Infuse Contest Winners

Last week I had a crazy idea to run a contest to give a way $3,500 in reduces and a free infuse session. So after over 100 tweets not counting all the retweets, only 7 #kidmin folks took the time to follow instructions (which is very important to me) and send in a video. I was looking for a funny one, thinking someone would get all creative up in here to win the the grand prize. But instead I saw people who really wanted to do infuse, they wanted to grow but there was no way financially. I know the difference in people who are cheap and those who are in need.  Last week one of my favorite infusers Amber Baker twitter about a Jon Acuff post about the importance of investing in yourself.   (it's an excellent post and something I've been saying for years.) So last night before I went to bed I thought I would up the prizes and scholarships to $5,500. I woke up this morning after one of the best night sleeps I've had in a long time. (Almost 11 hours) and felt like the Lord said give more.

Let's recap a minute my first full time Children's Pastor's Job was at a church of 1,400 for $50 a week. My budget for Children's Ministry not counting Sunday School Curriculum was $500 per year. God taught me at that church I could trust Him. (He paid for the birth of my daughter when we had no maternity insurance, dress shoes showed up on my desk in my size when I needed them and the parents of my puppet team bought me a 17 passenger Dodge Maxi Van and gave it to me and it was orange.) At every church since God has showed me He knows how to get blessing to me but He asked me to let blessing also go through me and to sow my seed before I look for a harvest. (You can't harvest crops where no seed has been planted!)

Just over 5 months ago I felt the Lord directing me to resign the best paying job I've ever had in the ministry and the first thing I started doing was sowing seed and getting it in the ground. I sowed cash,I sowed time and ministry into other ministries and I sowed some guitars to some folks who needed not wanted a great guitar. I have found in 40 years of following Christ that you just can't out give God! Yesterday I prayed and asked God for a 4 wheel drive pick up truck to leave in Oklahoma and to lead me to the right one. Today I heard give more and call it truck seed.

So I'm going to obey God...

I want to thank the 7 kidmin folks who sent in your video. I appreciate the kind words you had to say about me and the confidence you have in me as a leader, mentor and coach.

I have decided to award not 1 but 2 full scholarships

Congratulations to Corey Jones and Jen Burks!

But that's not all

Tom Bump, Layne Parrish, Ben Gurczynski, Wendy Schulz, & Jason Smith will each receive a $1000 scholarship as well.

So thanks for playing as well as learning with me. I'm excited.

Want to do Infuse for free?

Seven years ago when I began my Infuse coaching and mentoring program I had no idea that this would be the most fruitful and effective way to train leaders that I have ever been a part of. Infuse is more than just another conference or event. It's doing life together for 6 months with a group of people who want what you want, to be a better leader. If you want to be able to not just learn facts but be able to walk out what you learn in a fraction of the time of learning it on your own the hard way then infuse is for you. 

Each session I have given free spots to folks that Jesus has brought across my path. Sometime they've been from a conference or event I spoke at and God told me to sow into them. Some have been people who have reached out to me by email, twitter or facebook and God said bless them. The other day as I was praying I felt the Lord said "Give another session away in a contest." So that's what what I'm going to do, here's how you can enter.

1. Tweet this message between now and February 14th
"@jimwideman is giving away free #kidmin stuff including an #infuse session."
For every tweet and retweet I'll enter your name in a drawing for free books and resources as well as a few $500 infuse scholarships.

2. Email me a video telling me why you would like to do infuse and why you should be selected. It's that simple!

Please make sure your leader is in agreement with you being a part of infuse, they will have to submit a recommendation if you are selected. You will also have to complete an application.


You can find out all the details of infuse here. If you are chosen you will be responsible for your own transportation and lodging to and from the retreats and all expenses except the $1,500 fee.

So what are you waiting on? Let the game begin! I'll anounce the winner on February 15th, 2014.

Blessings,
Jim

A blog post from a current infuser...

Here's what one of my current Infusers Susan Wanderer posted on her blog. This is what Infuse is all about! (And yes there is still room in both groups for 2014)

Imagine you are called out... called out on your junk... the junk you don't do well at all. Your weakness, your frailty, the places you feel most bare and vulnerable.
You know, the areas you love to talk about and brag on... the highlight of your life. Your great-play reel. (Pardon the sarcasm.)

I was called out on my junk... By the Patriarch in my field of employment.
I've read his books, seen him speak at conferences and respected the inspiring way He leads. It's obvious why this was truly the best-day-of-my-life. I was even wondering why I didn't buy a round of tequila for everyone (except for the fact that I don't drink tequila)... i'll choose a round of Georgetown Cupcakes instead! (which is actually part of the problem in itself)

Here is the story
This year, I participated in a 6 month coaching and mentor experience called Infuse. As a part of Infuse, we attend 2 retreats.

Our first retreat was made up of 26 Kids Ministers from all over the country. Jim Wideman was our incredibly kind & gracious host. For two solid days we were allowed to soak up the wisdom of this Kids-Ministry-Legend and his 40 years of ministry experience. We asked question after question after question to our mentor, who we all deeply admire so much. He never tired of the machine-gun style questioning. Jim always answered in his southern-drawl with honesty, deep sincerity... and a dash of wit & humor. Then the final question came before lunch... One of the men asked "What can we do to be better leaders?"
I grabbed my pen, in anticipation for what I was about to hear... I was sure he was going to explain the greatest leadership secret of ALL TIME. Something that would propel my leadership to heights unknown! Here is how Jim responded:
You will be a better leader and people will respond to you better if you:
1. follow through
2. drop the weightWait, what?! Follow-Thru & Drop-Weight.
Seriously? This is the answer?
Two solutions... And they both stung...
1. Follow Thru... as in, I Don't.
Really, I am truly awful at this. My personality is bent towards ideation and creativity. I am a dreamer. Much to my delight and dismay, I spend much of the 24 hours I am given each day, dreaming of new ideas: for work, for my family, for any situation I see.... I dream.While it is exciting to be an ideator... it is also frustrating.
I absolutely, 100%, don't see details (if you say that with the voice of the sixth-sense guy, it sounds more daunting: I don't see details). It's maddening.
Thus, I have a horrible, bad habit of: Follow-Thru-Falling-Thru-The-Cracks.
It's one of my least favorite qualities about myself... And it was just pointed out. Joy.2. Drop the Weight
At first I didn't think I heard Jim correctly... so I asked the guy next to me to repeat it... Which was awkward in itself... Simply because he was....
...the SKINNIEST-MAN-EVER. So I, the largest-woman-in-the-room ask the skinniest-man-ever to repeat what Jim just said. With the amount of non-eye-contact my fellow kids minister was giving me I then realized I had heard correctly.

I think Jim felt the need to rescue the skinny boy answering the fat girl's question so he repeated: DROP THE L-B-S. It was as if I entered a movie... it sounded like he said it in a really low tone and in s-l-o-w-m-o-t-i-o-n. I heard it very well this time.

And my heart sank. To a deep pit. The main thing I have struggled with since childhood had been said. The. Main. Thing.
I met up with a dear Nashville-friend of mine before my flight out the next morning. My eyes were burning with tears as I re-told the follow-thru & weight story of my weekend.
Tackling those two areas is like trying to undo 40 years of habits, bad choices & mind sets. It's not: Good morning! Lets drop some weight today! (Although, I do say that EVER SINGLE DAY to myself).

After the last several months of reflection, prayer, Bible Study & talking with confidants... I realize I have GOT to formulate a plan. I have GOT to live in obedience & freedom.
I have two choices:
1. Change. Put a plan in place. Allow God to be strong in my weakness. Do the hard work. Watch God move in Supernatural ways.
2. Stay the same. And in one year... I could have the grand opportunity to be more unorganized with follow through & even heavier than I am now.
So, 2014 MUST look differently.
I am putting a plan together... Praying I will actually follow-thru...
I'm a BIG talker... It's time to be a responder.

Thank you, Jim Wideman. Even when the truth hurts, you say it. Your heart is genuine. I am grateful for Infuse & for your ministry... for your honesty, passion for people & dedication to the Kingdom. The weekend spent at Infuse was a turning point for me. 2014 is going to be challenging... So Thankful God is strong.

I am so proud of Susan! It is the greatest honor of my life to do infuse. The next group Infuse 8 starts March 2014 the next one Infuse 9 starts September 2014. I'd love to have you be a part of infuse if you are serious about seeing real change in you!What are you waiting for? Let 2014 be a year of no excuses!

Need A Coach?

The truth is we all do! Over the last 7 years coaching has changed my life! Why not checkout infuse! Today I will kick off my new infuse plus group these are all folks who have gone through infuse and want more (Some this will be their 4th infuse experience) September 1st I'll begin another group of 30 to start the infuse program. Infuse 7. Due to the incredible demand and to not have folks on a year's waiting list I'll be starting a new group this March (Infuse 8) so folks don't have to wait until next September to begin. Everyone does better with a coach. It's true in sports and true in ministry too. I hope you'll check into it! get all the scoop @ www.jimwideman.com

Got questions? Feel free to post them here or email me @ theclub@jimwideman.com

There are things I've learned I want to pass on to you!

Another Infuse Session Is In The History Books

I can't believe I've been offering my Infuse coaching and mentoring program for 5 years. I remember reflecting after the first retreat and feeling in my heart that I had struck gold and had truly heard from God. Infuse by far has been the most fruitful and fulfiling thing I've ever done to train and develop leaders outside my local church.

Today I just ended my 18th retreat and I'm sitting here watching the snow fall and resting and reflecting about this past infuse experience. Infuse has changed over the years since I started. Today I have 8 coaches who help me who are not only infusers themselves they are like family. When I started infuse was for an entire year with the possibility of an additional year today the sessions are for 6 months and you can sign up for as many additional sessions as you would like. Today marks the first day of my non-coaching part of the year. I'll use this time to work on me, my health and fitness and plan for some brand new additions for the fall. 

I've already filled the infuse+ (alumni group) that will start in August and I'm wrapping up the last few selections for Infuse7 that will start in September. The next group will be in September 2014. 

Maybe infuse is what you need to reach your next level? Here's what some recent infusers have to say...

"Infuse, for me, has been about applied knowledge. Information and ideas that might be gleaned from seminars, books, or conferences are broken down into bite-sized, in-depth, personalized, application.  The discussions, Q&A, and direct access to Brother Jim (and the Coaches and others in the Group) allow for a depth of processing and individualized attention that I've not found in any other format. The specifics of each unique situation -the issues and concerns as well the ideas and the dreams - are addressed and confronted and dissected and embraced. I have grown in my level of leadership, depth of character, and quality of ministry because of Infuse."   Montie Mansur, Little Rock, AR

"The difference between Infuse and other mentor groups is Bro Jim. Not only does he have the experience and knowledge, but Bro Jim brings a compassion for each infuse participant. He pushes each participant to succeed because he cares. Not only does he want you to succeed, but he shares the tools you need to take your church to the next level."  Jeremy Miller, Winchester, VA


Ready to write your story? 

Here's what 3 folks from the current Infuse group had to say...

I had heard all the good stuff about infuse, but until I really got into it and saw that if I applied what Bro. Jim was teaching us, it could truly be life changing inside and outside of ministry.  Infuse gives me the safe place to ask questions, be transparent, and seek advice from some of the greatest coaches and ministers in the country. I can truly say that as I am putting the knowledge to work, it is helping me become a better Christian, wife, momma, and children's minister.

Alison Baggett
Westwood Baptist Church
Alabaster, Alabama

Knowledge + experience + proven reputation = the infuse adventure!  Jim Wideman is the tour guide, but YOU determine much of the direction this mentorship takes.  The initial investment is small compared to what you WILL gain, on a personal level and as a church leader.  And it's just that....an investment!  The question is, "Are you willing to grow to the capacity that God has created you for?"  Take it from someone who was despirately searching for a ministry coach and almost didn't apply for infuse.  I did and it has transformed me.  It can do the same for you.  Apply today!

Brent Dumler - GROW Ministries

Christ Community Church, Columbus, GA

Before beginning Infuse, I really struggled with self confidence in my ministry and personal life. I didn't feel like I was capable of accomplishing anything of what was needed to move my church forward. At the end of my first Infuse session, that all has changed. I now understand my priorities in life better, how to manage my time, to serve my pastor, how to set my life & ministry goals and accomplish those goals in order of the priorities I have set. I learned to learn from others and that asking questions is a good thing. Because of the support and leadership Bro Jim brings, I feel more equipped and ready to accomplish all that God as called me to be. For the first time in my ministry, I have confidence in myself and my leadership. Any kidmin that desires to grow in leadership in all aspects of their lives should find a way to be a part of this great experience. 

Todd Hull

Loxley Church of God

Loxley, AL

Could one of these stories be yours? Apply today @ jw.com

Infuse might be just what you need...

“I would do infuse every year if I could, and there would still be more to learn and people to meet. I made some great friends, and that is what I benefit most from today. If you can’t do the whole Infuse experience, try the one month version. You can get just as much as the full version if you put in the effort to ask questions and build relationships. Bro Jim makes leadership tools so accessible to anyone that has a desire to learn and you will love this opportunity!”

Mycal Rosales

Children's Pastor

The Church at South Las Vegas

"When I think of infuse I picture a person in the doctor's office, hooked up to an IV.  The person might be in serious trouble, or simply a bit dehydrated.  Whatever the case, he or she needs a boost.  This is exactly what Infuse is - a boost.  There are people in ministry who are barely holding on, and others who just need a shot in the arm to take it to the next level.  Whatever the case, the input that the infuse experience provides, when applied, is the catalyst to unlocking  potential and bringing life and ministry into focus.  It is hard to put a price tag on that type of infusion."

Jon Warneke

New Life Christian Center

"Before I attended Infuse, I felt like I was "stuck" in my ministry. There were days when I wasn't sure what to focus on or what was most important. Infuse and Jim Wideman helped me to take my leadership to the next level."

Susan Hughes
Volunteer Coordinator/PCC Kids Director
Powhatan Community Church

I've spent a lot of years attending, speaking and hosting conferences they are great for networking and to hear about tips, resources and what others do. There is no way to get in a few 45 minute sessions you get from 6 months of coaching!

INFUSE is more than a conference it's about developing a relationship with others who will be a part of your life forever. An iron sharpening iron relationship. You'll still hear about stuff, but you'll also learn by seeing first hand. You'll be able to ask questions until you fully understand how to walk out what you want to learn. You'll have the accountability you need to walkout what you desire to know. My coaches and I will do more than speak into your life to help you we'll walk beside you and pull out of you what you want to be.

I have just 5 spots left then you'll have to wait until 2014.  Get in your application this month.July  For all the details and to download an application look here. If you still have questions ask them here or send me an email. Infuse 7 for September 2013-March 2014 is almost full (My infuse+ Alumni group is full) so this is your last chance to be infused until September 2014.

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I don't know everything but everything I know I'm willing to teach you. Let's walk together in INFUSE this September.

Looking for a mentor?

mentor |ˈmenˌtôr; -tər|

noun

an experienced and trusted adviser 

If you have a desire to take your kidmin leadership to the next level, I can think of no more effective way than to plug into Jim Wideman’s mentorship program Infuse.  Jim will help you evaluate and find those blind spots that are holding you back, and equip you to move forward with purpose and direction.  I am so glad to have the voice of Jim Wideman as a mentor and leader in my life.  Let Jim infuse your life and ministry with a lifetime of leadership wisdom. You will grow both personally and as a leader in ways you never dreamed possible. Sandy Lawson Element Church, Wentzville, MO

Infuse is a 6 month mentoring experiences available to 30 selected children’s pastors and leaders. (Next available session begins September 2013) This program is offered each year during the months of September through February. Infuse is open to any leader with a desire to learn and a willingness to commit themselves to whatever it takes to go to your desired level. Candidates are chosen from the application process regardless of the size of your present church, your age or your experience level.

Infuse is more than a program or curriculum. It’s a 6-month mentoring experience with a Kidmin practitioner that has built successful ministries spanning 5 decades. 

Here's what you'll receive:

1. Personality testing and comparisons for you, your spouse and your pastor or supervisor. Once we start you will be sent a link for you, your spouse and your supervisor to take the Path Element Profile (PEP®) personality assessment by Laurie Beth Jones. Jim will go over the results and comparisons to help you excel in your relationships. This will also help Jim understand your giftings and your uniqueness so he can more effectively coach you during your time in Infuse.

2. Powerful interactive conference calls. Once every month Jim hosts a conference call with the members of Infuse. This is a special time where you can hear and receive from Jim’s heart and experience. Because these calls are interactive you’ll be able to ask questions and learn from Jim and the other members of infuse. From time to time Jim will ask some of his children’s ministry friends to join these calls and you’ll be able to learn from other trusted children’s ministry experts and veterans who serve as coaches.

3. (2) "intense" get-a-way retreats at Jim's house in Murfreesboro, (Nashville) Tennessee. During your session you’ll be invited to Jim’s home for two sessions including two very full days of intense mentoring and coaching with Jim and the other leaders and coaches chosen to take part in Infuse. These events take place in November and in either February or March.

4. Unlimited mentoring by Jim and access online. Each member of infuse will have access to a special online forum and discussions where they can ask questions about children’s ministry and leadership directly to Jim and the other coaches throughout the session. This is like having your own personal team of children’s ministry veterans on your team. You’ll also be able to post questions about your assignments right on the page. Even after infuse is over you'll be able to stay connected for life on the Alumni forum. (All of the coaches work in a local church and have successfully completed a minimum of two years of coaching with Jim.)

5. Small group support and encouragement. Each person taking part in infuse will be teamed with several other children’s pastors assigned by Jim for the sake of developing a close “friend and care group.” These groups are for the purpose of accountability, prayer support and creating ongoing “iron sharpening iron” relationships and growth.

6. Extra time with Jim at ministry events. As an Infuser you’ll be able to meet up with Jim at any seminar or event where he is speaking. You’ll also be able to share a meal with him for the purpose of mentoring and personal coaching. (Registration is your responsibility but Jim will make time to spend with you at the event.) Check Jim's schedule page for a list of events, you'll also find the retreat dates here.

7. An optional additional session(s) will be made available at the end of your current session for those who want to continue. Jim believes that the benefits of this type of experience will be so dynamic that the members of Infuse will not want to stop having this type of Elijah-Elisha resource at their disposal.

So far I've posted 17 recommendations if that's not enough here are 4 more...

The Infuse program has impacted not just my ministry but also my personal life.  The time that Bro Jim invested into me during the program will stick with me forever.  When it comes to getting the right tools on your ministry belt, this is the one thing that has equipped me more than any conference that I have ever attended.  Thanks Bro Jim for your continual investment into those who have a desire to learn. Matt Payne Family Worship Center McKinney, TX

Infuse is something that every children's ministry leader need to experience. I have been in children's ministry for many years and what I learned in Infuse helped me more that everything else put together. If you want to see a real increase in your personal leadership skills and bigger results in your ministry, Infuse is something you can't pass up.   Larry Hillman, Tampa, FL

Infuse has significantly increased my leadership ability in my church, my home and even over myself; causing me to be more responsible, and have better management skills over myself and others. Matt McDaniels, St Louis, MO

What an awesome opportunity to get one on one answers to those questions you were afraid to ask, thinking that maybe you were crazy! I found that in meeting with Jim Wideman and other children's pastors in a small group setting allowed me to get immediate responses to questions and concerns I had.  I met people who were experiencing the same challenges I was, or had gone through them and was willing to help.  We are better together, and the friendships continue…Diana Lane, VA

Still got questions? email me from jimwideman.com

Wanting Your Input

During the month of August I tried something new, an affortable, one month version of my highly successful coaching and mentoring program infuse. I mainly did it because my 6 month version for 2012 filled up so early and it looks like my next  6 month version for September 2013  will be full before the end of the year which will mean I will have some more disapointed folks who don't want to be on a 2 year waiting list to be coached, This means I'm going to have to offer something else. Infuse-lite worked.  It was very fast paced but it worked. Several folks told me August was a busy month for them, So it leaves me with three big questions...

1.What is the best month to offer a scaled back version of infuse?

May-August if any.

2. Would you rather come hangout with me for a long weekend than a month long coaching program?

3. Is there another event you would like to see me host that would help you?

Thanks so much for your input and help...

Having A Blackout

I am very thankful for the technology that I have to work with but for the next week I am not using any of it. I'm taking a break from all email acounts, twitter, facebook, group me and my blog. I haven't decided if I will stay away from Instagram or not, right now I'm leaving that one open.  I'm excited about this. I've seen others do it and have taken a break from one or two of these before but never all of them.


What are you going to do with the extra time, Jim? I'm going to spend it with God and my family. I'm also going to spend some time marking a few more things off my bucket list.


Here's what you can do for me...
1. Pray for me that I'll hear what I need to hear from God.
2. Pray that when I hear what I need to hear that I will be obedient and do it!
3. Pray for safety,  protection, and strength while I ride my bicycle.
See you in a week! Thanks

More Things People Are Saying About Infuse...

“I would do infuse every year if I could, and there would still be more to learn and people to meet. I made some great friends, and that is what I benefit most from today. If you can’t do the whole Infuse experience, try the one month version. You can get just as much as the full version if you put in the effort to ask questions and build relationships. Bro Jim makes leadership tools so accessible to anyone that has a desire to learn and you will love this opportunity!”

Mycal Rosales

Children's Pastor

The Church at South Las Vegas

"When I think of infuse I picture a person in the doctor's office, hooked up to an IV.  The person might be in serious trouble, or simply a bit dehydrated.  Whatever the case, he or she needs a boost.  This is exactly what Infuse is - a boost.  There are people in ministry who are barely holding on, and others who just need a shot in the arm to take it to the next level.  Whatever the case, the input that the infuse experience provides, when applied, is the catalyst to unlocking  potential and bringing life and ministry into focus.  It is hard to put a price tag on that type of infusion."

Jon Warneke

New Life Christian Center

"Before I attended Infuse, I felt like I was "stuck" in my ministry. There were days when I wasn't sure what to focus on or what was most important. Infuse and Jim Wideman helped me to take my leadership to the next level."

Susan Hughes
Volunteer Coordinator/PCC Kids Director
Powhatan Community Church

This August I'm accepting 25 people to be a part of a month long coaching and mentoring experience. I'm calling this opportunity "INFUSE-LITE" For lest than what a 3 day event will cost you you get a month of coaching from me and my team of coaches. You get the same personality assessments for you, your spouse and your pastor or supervisor.

You'll also receive a matrix that shows you how to understand and communicate with both your spouse and your leader. You'll also receive a matrix on how to communicate with me, the other coaches as well as each member of infuse.

During the month of August you'll be able to ask questions and participate in assignments and discussions on a special online forum on cmconnect.org. During our month of coaching there will be a special 2 hr conference call. Then on August 30 & 31 you'll get to participate in a special 2 day retreat. Want more? Stay over the weekend and shadow me over the weekend at my church.

After attending INFUSE-LITE if you sign up for INFUSE 7 (September 1, 2013- February 28, 2014 you'll receive an additional $200 discount.

I've spent a lot of years attending, speaking and hosting conferences they are great for networking and to hear about tips, resources and what others do.

INFUSE is more than a conference it's about developing a relationship with others who will be a part of your life forever. An iron sharpening iron relationship. You'll still hear about stuff, but you'll also learn by seeing first hand. You'll be able to ask questions until you fully understand how to walk out what you want to learn. You'll have the accountability you need to walkout what you desire to know. My coaches and I will do more than speak into your life to help you we'll walk beside you and pull out of you what you want to be.

You have 1 month left to get in your application.July 1st will be the official cutoff or until we reach 25 participants. For all the details and to download an application look here. If you still have questions ask them here or send me an email. Infuse 6 for September 2012-March 2013 is full so this is your last chance to be infused until 2013.

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I don't know everything but everything I know I'm willing to teach you. Let's walk together in INFUSE.

Have You Heard What Everyone Is Saying About infuse and Infuse Lite?

mentor |ˈmenˌtôr; -tər|

noun

an experienced and trusted adviser 

If you have a desire to take your kidmin leadership to the next level, I can think of no more effective way than to plug into Jim Wideman’s mentorship program Infuse.  Jim will help you evaluate and find those blind spots that are holding you back, and equip you to move forward with purpose and direction.  I am so glad to have the voice of Jim Wideman as a mentor and leader in my life.  Let Jim infuse your life and ministry with a lifetime of leadership wisdom. You will grow both personally and as a leader in ways you never dreamed possible. Sandy Lawson Element Church, Wentzville, MO

Join me this August for a special one month version of my infuse coaching program for a fraction of the cost of a 6 month session...

After all the success stories of infuse I still hear from folks they say a six month session is just out of reach for their budget. So I decided to created a version of my mentoring/coaching program for those of you who would like a taste of what infuse is all about. It's not just a retreat or another conference, it's a month long coaching program with testing for you, your spouse & your leader which includes1 conference call, 30 days of access to Jim and his coaches online and a two day retreat in Murfreesboro, TN (August 30 and 31, 2012) all for just $325 per person.

INFUSE -LITE is limited to 25 leaders on a first come first serve basis. If a former infuser recommends you, you do not have to send in a video with your application however if you do not know a former infuser please complete the entire infuse application with video. Travel, lodging and meals are not included in the price however I will include a path element profile for you, your spouse and your pastor or supervisor (A $150 value). You can download your application here. If that's not a good enough I'll sweeten it a little more for you. After attending INFUSE-LITE you go on to do a full session of infuse (September 2013) I'll discount the tuition an additional $200.

So far I've posted 17 recommendations if that's not enough here are 4 more...

The Infuse program has impacted not just my ministry but also my personal life.  The time that Bro Jim invested into me during the program will stick with me forever.  When it comes to getting the right tools on your ministry belt, this is the one thing that has equipped me more than any conference that I have ever attended.  Thanks Bro Jim for your continual investment into those who have a desire to learn. Matt Payne Family Worship Center McKinney, TX

Infuse is something that every children's ministry leader need to experience. I have been in children's ministry for many years and what I learned in Infuse helped me more that everything else put together. If you want to see a real increase in your personal leadership skills and bigger results in your ministry, Infuse is something you can't pass up.   Larry Hillman, Tampa, FL

Infuse has significantly increased my leadership ability in my church, my home and even over myself; causing me to be more responsible, and have better management skills over myself and others. Matt McDaniels

What an awesome opportunity to get one on one answers to those questions you were afraid to ask, thinking that maybe you were crazy! I found that in meeting with Jim Wideman and other children's pastors in a small group setting allowed me to get immediate responses to questions and concerns I had.  I met people who were experiencing the same challenges I was, or had gone through them and was willing to help.  We are better together, and the friendships continue…Diana Lane

Still got questions? email me from jimwideman.com

More About Infuse Lite

Still thinking about Infuse and Infuse Lite? Here are 8 more reasons why you should send in your application today...

"Imagine gathering in a room with leaders invested in kids, dedicated to leading well, and committed to God's mission.Imagine being in conversation with leaders with years of experience, passion, and hope for the future.
Imagine an experience where you can ask questions, explore ideas, collaborate solutions.
This kind of opportunity is tailor-fit for kidmin leaders who want sharpen their leadership skills! Join Jim Wideman and his team in this once in a lifetime experience."- Jeni Carlson
Director of Children's Ministry, Five Oaks Church

"Infuse is a game-changing experience.  The teaching, relationships, and ideas that I've come back with have an effect on more than my ministry.  It has effected the way I view every aspect of my life.  After just a few hours of being on our Infuse Retreat this past year, Bro. Jim asked, "If you went home right now, would it have been worth it?"  Undoubtedly, yes!  Everyone does better with a coach.  A conference comes and goes in a matter of days and exposes you to think bigger.  But Infuse does more than that.  It gives you a coach and a team of people to help you think through how to apply and implement what you learn.  I think Infuse Lite will expose you to think differently and learn from Bro. Jim who has been blessed with years of experience but also has a passion to see you succeed in your calling."- Aaron Jack Bauer, Journey Church

"Attending Infuse has been an experience that stands above the rest in regards to my ministry training and growth. The things I have learned have helped me grow to a point where I now pastor over 1000 kids a week.  I highly recommend that anyone in ministry apply and take advantage of this amazing opportunity." -Joe McApine

"Infuse has helped me in every facet of my life. Brother Jim coached me to be a better believer, husband, dad, and pastor. Every children's or youth pastor should go through Infuse for at least one session. Don't let the money stop you,  seriously, figure out a way to make it work." -Jason Martin

"Infuse gives you the opportunity to ask questions you didn’t even know you had.  The interaction with a team of people experiencing life in the same arena, but each with a different level of experience, a different way of thinking, and a different method to the madness…it is like creativity blender with Brother Jim’s experience and leadership to bring direction, definition, and meaning to it all.  There is one goal throughout the entire process – to help you become better and more effective for the Kingdom of God and name of Jesus Christ!"

Timothy E Posch- World Outreach Church

"Infuse has changed my ministry!  Jim and his team has helped me develop the tools and abilities to take my ministry to the next level." -David Rinck, First Assembly Of God, Fargo

"If you have a desire to grow, learn, and develop your Leadership, Infuse is for you! If you want to go to the next level you must surround yourself with others that will challenge you! Infuse will definitely help you accomplish that goal! The insight and wisdom I gained from Brother Jim is simply priceless! I highly recommend making the investment, it will be a life-changing experience!" - Mindy Fenley, Church On The Rock, St Peters. MO

"If you haven't tried Infuse yet, don't wait any longer! This is a life-changing, ministry impacting, experience you won't want to miss. Bro. Jim's love for helping people comes out the minute you meet him. You will learn something from every minute you get to spend with him. Through Infuse you'll learn how to maximize your time to be more effective, how to be a better leader to your staff and volunteers, and you'll learn how to increase and grow your ministry. My time in Infuse has been invaluable and I know it will be for you too!"- Sara Richards, Minneapolis, MN

 Now here's your chance to join me in Infuse this August for a fraction of the cost of a 6 month session...

After all the success stories of infuse I still hear from folks they say a six month session is just out of reach for their budget. So I decided to created a version of my mentoring/coaching program for those of you who would like a taste of what infuse is all about. It's not just a retreat or another conference, it's a month long coaching program with testing for you, your spouse & your leader which includes1 conference call, 30 days of access to Jim and his coaches online and a two day retreat in Murfreesboro, TN (August 30 & 31, 2012) all for just $325 per person.

INFUSE -LITE is limited to 25 leaders on a first come first serve basis. If a former infuser recommends you, you do not have to send in a video with your application however if you do not know a former infuser please complete the entire infuse application with video. Travel, lodging and meals are not included in the price however I will include a path element profile for you, your spouse and your pastor or supervisor (A $150 value). You can download your application here. If that's not a good enough I'll sweeten it a little more for you. After attending INFUSE-LITE you go on to do a full session of infuse (September 2013) I'll discount the tuition an additional $200.

Don't put this off any longer send in your application while there is still room. (I excepted 3 more folks this week.)

Inside The Eric Trap- Part 3

In Chapter 3 of The Eric Trap. Sherri Epperson offers 3 ways we can Activate Parental Leadership; Inspire, Equip, and Support...

Inspire
As children’s ministers, we must give family members hope. Parents need encouragement so they, too, can investigate God's Word with their children without feeling the need to be a Bible scholar. Parents have great potential to influence their children, so they must be encouraged to let the Bible be alive and active in their lives so that they can transfer this truth in the lives of their kids. 

One of the best ways to inspire a parent is to get him or her involved in a way that isn’t intimidating. For example, this past year my church started a new program for upper elementary and youth who are taking our baptism class. We asked that a parent stay with his or her child during the class so he or she could be involved. The feedback from the parents has been incredible. Parents enjoy the time with their kids while learning alongside them, and many have felt their spiritual relationship with their kids has been deepened. This kind of experience, where the church provides a venue for spiritual conversations, may provide a starting place for parents to continue similar conversations at home.

My church also gives parents a chance to serve in the kids’ ministry. Engaging parents to serve in the children’s ministry has many incredible benefits. Serving in the church gives parents confidence in how to communicate spiritual truths to children. Over time, they become more comfortable with the Bible stories and even answering the difficult questions kids ask. This experience gained transfers directly to conversations parents can have with their own kids at home. In some cases, entire families can serve in some of the younger age groups. Not only do the spiritual truths come to life in a totally different way for a family who is teaching, but also serving binds a family together and gives them something meaningful and significant to do together. This kind of experience allows families to live out their faith together, and it relationally engages the whole family in a powerful way.

Equip
Not only should we inspire parents, but we must also equip parents and family members with the tools for accomplishing the final goal of a Christ-centered lifestyle. We cannot lead efficiently without help from others. We have to have an army of workers to assist us in accomplishing this goal for the families who come to our church. We need mentors for leading small groups, leaders for teaching, and leaders who can walk alongside parents. With an army of leaders like that, we can equip parents by teaching them through family-training classes, by providing family activities that nurture family development, and by giving them chances to have fun as a family. 

One summer, my team and I decided to have a weekend-long, family-style vacation Bible school. This was done off campus at a local park at the beginning of the summer. The families had uninterrupted time together outside of their normal routine, which gave them time to focus on just their family through games, Bible study, and loads of activities. Because of the fun we all had, even we leaders who had set all this up wanted to start up a regular Sunday-afternoon meet-up in the park for the rest of the summer.

Another effective method for equipping parents is to establish family-training classes. Family-training classes help parents guide their children as they grow in their relationships with Jesus Christ. Training can consist of classes, seminars, and information posted on the church web page or in an informational flyer passed out to new families. As we equip families, it’s important that we take time to continually assess the needs of both individuals and families in our church community.

Families are in a constant forward motion nowadays. It’s vital that we be intentional about what opportunities we provide for families to connect. Not only will our church attendance rise, but there will also be more families coming together with their kids and enjoying church. The church’s goal should not be to make families feel as if they need to attend all classes and activities but to equip families with instruction on how to live a godly lifestyle in today's world.

Support
Once we have inspired and equipped the parents of our church, we need to lend parents a hand as we come alongside them through their parental journey. Here is a place we can train some of our leaders who are gifted in nurturing others to be mentors to younger parents. A mentoring program can easily be established by using older parents that have the wisdom, insight, and experience to help families. While I am fortunate to have my parents nearby, I have found that many people live a distance from their own parents and miss that support.

While I was serving in our MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) program, we recruited the older mothers to mentor the young mothers. This was a huge success. Each group had a leader and a mentor mom to facilitate the group. During discussions, so much good Biblical advice came from the leader and the mentor mom. Ladies who didn't live near their parents appreciated the advice, love, and support from their mentor moms. In fact, I am still in contact with my mentor mom, and I enjoy our relationship even though my mom lives close. It's a blessing to take time with my mentor for a coffee during a crazy-busy week to help me refocus on what I have been working on. I see it as God's way to gently remind me it's His work, not mine.

Although the church may have stepped over its boundaries in years past and attempted to be something it was never intended to be in the life of kids, there’s no doubt that the church is the absolute best place to engage families in spiritual matters. This may mean that our children’s ministries need to reshape some of our priorities. We might need to spend less time developing that new kidmin discipleship program and figure out how we can better resource parents. Our parents need to be inspired in a way they’ve not been before. They must see that they’ve got what it takes to be successful. They need great resources and tools that are simple enough to implement at home. Lastly, they need a system of support, one that the church can easily provide. When we make this our focus, we align our priorities with God’s plan for the spiritual formation of children, and we give the children in our churches the best opportunities for long-term success. 

more to come...

Inside The Eric Trap- Part 2

The next author who wrote about Eric's second trap was Deana Hayes. Deana is now the Family Pastor at Light and Life Church in Avon, IN. Deana is one of my favorite infusers, she's really quiet but she's always thinking and asks great questions. She wrote about "Leadership Under Authority" Here's just a little bit of what she added to THE ERIC TRAP...


I remember the first day on the job like it was yesterday. I strolled into the church building not really knowing what to expect. The senior pastor greeted me with some warm and welcoming words, and then he escorted me to my office and asked that I meet with him in his office in a few minutes. The first thing I noticed was that my office had windows, a supposed luxury in the world of kidmin, so I knew things were already off to a good start. After setting some personal things down and again admiring the view from my window, I strolled down the hall to meet with my senior pastor. We went over the typical personnel and administrative stuff—those fun yet necessary tax and insurance forms. And afterward, he sent me to my office to begin my job.

I was so excited to get things going in children’s ministry at this church. I was the first children’s pastor my church had ever hired. It was a new venture, and I was eager to do a great job. Isn’t that what we all desire—to be the best at what we do? We attend school and conferences, and we network with others to be the best at our job. We dream of new and better programs that will reach more and more kids. We seek to acquire the newest tools and resources so that we can be the best (not in a conceited way, of course). We’re passionate about what we’ve been called to do, and we can quickly become absorbed in this huge and complex world of our vision for ministry. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

Well, did I have a lot to learn.!

Having a huge vision for children’s ministry isn’t wrong. Actually, it’s essential. But one of the biggest and most important things I have learned is the importance of knowing the vision of the house and submitting to my senior or lead pastor. To submit means to yield oneself to the will or authority of another. More personally, to submit as a children’s pastor means to know my senior pastor’s heart. Where is God leading him for the congregation in which we both serve? It is crucial to our personal well being as well as the success of our church to know that vision. Mark 3:24-26 NIV says, “If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come.”

Naturally, as children’s pastors, we may wonder, how exactly do I serve my senior leader? or why do I put his calling before my own? Well the why is an easy one to answer. The relationship between a senior pastor and his associate pastors is often the key to the health and ministry of a church. Although we may have been hired because of our vision the for the children's ministry and our stated expectation is to lead the children's ministry, our top priority must always be to assist the pastor in his vision for the church. Period.

I have often heard children’s ministers argue, “But I went to school to serve the local church as the children’s pastor,” or “I was hired as the children’s pastor; therefore, my job is to lead and oversee the ministry to children, so what does getting to know the vision of the house or serving my senior pastor have do with my key responsibilities?”

Well, everything!

When the local church hires a person to oversee any area of ministry, what they are actually doing is hiring an associate to the pastor. The church is hiring an associate pastor who will assist the senior pastor in moving the church to accomplish the vision God gave him for that particular church. Once on staff, the senior pastor will delegate authority to the associate in overseeing and leading a ministry in a specific area. In our cases, that specific area happens to be a vibrant ministry to children. Therefore, it is not your ministry; it’s but an extension of the ministries offered by your local churches. Let me say that again. It is not YOUR ministry. Sometimes I think that we get that confused. Plainly said, we you have been entrusted to lead that area of ministry in the way it should go in line with the vision of the house. Our work should reflect highly on our senior pastors. Remember, we were hired to serve our senior pastor and his vision for the church, not the other way around.

Why did I have to learn this the hard way? I got to the point where I wanted the church to grow so badly that I was very eager to do something, anything, to move it forward. I failed to listen to my senior pastor. I did not honor him, nor did I extend the respect that he deserved as an ordained man of God. I had my own ideas of what could be done, and I knew they were great ideas.

Don’t get me wrong, having a desire, in and of itself, to grow and move a church is not wrong, but the way we try to see it through may have its faults. We must be careful in how we build and direct the ministry we’ve been given authority to lead. Building a ministry to children that teaches, encourages, challenges, strengthens, and leads children to the throne of grace for our own success is wrong. Reaching out to equip families, encourage moms, and develop dads in spite of what your our leadership has asked you us to do is failure. The ends never justify the means. In all that we do, we must build our ministry to children in a way that aligns with and reflects the vision of the house.

It is so easy to sit in our offices and totally get lost within our own ministry. Praying for, planning, and dreaming of what to do next are consuming. We wonder, how can we can improve our safety and security system in a way that gives parents more confidence? What tools can we seek or develop to better train and equip our staff? Which conferences should we attend to grow in both faith and skills, learn from great communicators, and network with other like--minded pastors?

As a children’s minister, there’s always more to do than we’ll have time for. There’s more to think about than weyou’ll have time to actually think about it. There’s nothing wrong with all of these things, right? This is what we were hired to do, isn’t it?


Stop. Get up from your desk. Walk out of your office, and go join a co-worker in his or her office. Ask him or her about plans he or she has for the ministry he or she has authority to lead. Probe deeper. Ask questions. How does what this person is talking about intersect with the children’s ministry? How can you help him or her be successful? How can he or she help you to be successful? Are you both headed in the same direction, following the vision your pastor laid out for your church?

We have a tendency to isolate ourselves in our own world and ministry, and we forget our place. We’re on a team. We’re working together. We are working for our senior pastor. We must not forget this.

Want to read the rest? Order your copy of THE ERIC TRAP today!
You can buy the book on my site, or Amazon. It's also available for the Kindle.

I'm also going to be giving away some free Ebook copies... to be eligible to win leave a comment and then retweet my tweets about THE ERIC TRAP from now through the weekend.
Have fun!

Inside The Eric Trap: Delegation

Besides Sam, Kenny & myself, there were some amazing Kidmin folks who wrote part of this book. Each one wrote practical answers and solutions to offer suggestions to each of the 5 traps Eric and the rest of us get traped in doing ministry. One of those wonderful leaders is Craig Gyergyo. Craig is the Children's Pastor at Hope Church in Memphis, Tennessee.

Craig had the asignment of writing about delegation or doing the job allone.

Here's just a sampling of what he had to say...

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to be a summer intern at a church in my hometown. I was really excited about this particular opportunity because the senior pastor of this church happened to be one of my personal church heroes. All summer long, I followed in the footsteps of this wonderful leader as we ministered to kids at camps, went on mission trips, and delved into all of the business of the church. That summer I spent hours upon hours with this hero of mine. We shared a cabin at camp and a cot in a rundown hotel room in Mexico. (It doesn’t get much closer than that, folks.) I walked away from that internship a better minister and leader than I was when I began. It was truly a thrill to serve alongside this man that I had looked up to for so many years. I learned how to communicate the gospel more effectively, and I observed as this pastor masterfully planned and executed faith-rich programs for kids of all ages. I was in awe (and still am).

Ninety-five percent of what I learned about ministry that summer was from the pastor’s example. I learned lessons on everything from the importance of keeping a timely schedule to leading worship. As for the other five percent of my “summer education,” well, no one is perfect, right? Early on, it was clear that this pastor liked to do things himself—with no help from anyone else, thank you. For instance, one day while in the office, the pastor gave me a to-do list. The list included, among other things, database work. The pastor took time to explain to me exactly what he wanted me to do. He began to tell me exactly which information was important to enter into the database and how to do the job. Then, abruptly, the pastor stopped what he was saying, looked at me, and said, “You know what? This job is going to take you twelve hours to complete, but it will only take me about an hour and a half . . . outta my way.” Just like that, my to-do list got a little bit shorter. This was the beginning of a trend. Throughout the summer, items from my task list were transferred from my file to his.

You’re probably thinking, well, maybe you were just not up to the task. (It wouldn’t be the first time that someone accused me of that, by the way. Did I mention that I work at a church?) In the right circumstances, this accusation could be true of any of us, but in this case we are talking about tasks such as data entry and organizing camp skits. It’s not as if he were asking me to fly a group of fifth- grade boys from the campfire to the moon in a rocket ship. No, this pastor had an underlying belief that he would often quote: “If you want something done right, you’ve got to do it yourself.”

How many of us subscribe to that same thinking? Far too many of us if the truth be told. Contrary to what we tell volunteers, parents, and staff; we all too often believe deep down that we are the best (and maybe the only) people to do the job right. Sure, we’ll allow someone else to sort the popsicle sticks into bins or maybe let someone else decide which toppings to get on the pizza now and again, but all of the really big stuff—the important stuff—is left for us. That means that the lesson making, speaking, teaching, e-mailing, recruiting, advertising, praying, and all other verbs associated with our ministry that have the -ing suffix are our jobs. Why? Because if you want something done right, you’ve got to do it yourself. That’s why.

There’s something that you and I need to know. Make sure that you are sitting down for this because you may find this to be surprising: GOD NEVER INTENDED FOR ONE PERSON TO RUN THE ENTIRE CHILDREN’S MINISTRY. Though Jesus, in fact, did say, “Let the little children come to Me,” (Matt. 19:14), I don’t believe that it was his intention to be a solo act. You see, the Scriptures compare the church to a body. A body has many different parts, and those many different parts have many different functions. All come together under one head, however, to work in a concerted fashion. A heart cannot do what a stomach can do; a mouth cannot do what an ear can do, and so forth. Still, all of these body parts are indispensibleindispensable to the functioning of a healthy body. So it should be with the church.

The healthy church or ministry looks like a body with many different people bringing many different gifts and talents together under one head—the Lord Jesus—to work in unison and bring God’s kingdom here on earth as it is in heaven. What would our churches look like if we took steps toward forming a community of people with God-given gifts and talents within our ministries rather than staging a one-person show? Our ministries would look a lot more like what God intended. In order to make this vision a reality, we have to be willing to delegate and start acting on our belief that God has created the church and all ministry with a team in mind.

What more Eric Trap? You can buy the book on my site, or Amazon. It's also available for the Kindle.

More Eric Trap

Sunday, February 17th, 6:45 a.m.

It wasn’t much different from any other Sunday morning for Eric. Although he wouldn’t quite consider himself a “morning person,” Eric enjoyed getting to the church early. Typically he’d pull in while it was still dark, several hours before the 9:00 a.m. service. Usually, Eric was the first one there, and he liked it that way.

Others might call it routine or a chore, but Eric considered it therapeutic to move throughout the building in the stillness of the morning turning on lights and adjusting thermostats. Those were the moments that he used to prepare for the day before him. Sometimes Eric would spend this time praying for the programs, the songs, and every little activity that was planned. Most importantly, he used the time to pray for all the laughing and smiling kids who would barge through the doors later that morning.

Specific names and faces came to mind. Under his breath he whispered, “Lord, I pray for Simon today. He’s had such a hard year since his parents divorced, and he’s really struggling to make friends with the other second and third grade boys. God, I pray that today would be the day that he connects with his peers.”

A big smile flashed across Eric’s face as he thought about seven-year-old Katie Martin. “Jesus, thank You so much for little Katie’s great faith! Thank You for helping her see You and have the courage to ask You into her life last week. Lord, I pray that she not lose the joy of following You.”

Eric continued walking the halls completing his mindless tasks amid the blaring silence. His mind wandered from thought to thought, wondering how each preschool lesson would go, if the first and second grade girls were going to like the activity in their small group, and whether Billy was going to pick a fight with Gregory again this week.

His mind also drifted to thoughts far more carnal. He relived the plot twists and cliffhanger endings of the movies he stayed up too late watching. Subconsciously, Eric’s mind returned to his personal, never-ending debate of his favorite superhero: Batman or Superman? The heater kicked on loudly and jolted his mind back to the present. His eyes darted around, and he breathed a sign of relief finding safety in the empty hallways. Smiling, he wondered what his kids would think if they really knew what went on in the mind of a children’s pastor.

If someone asked Eric which day of the week was his favorite, he’d readily answer Sunday. It was the day he looked forward to most. His staff and volunteers could all readily recite his favorite phrase, “Sunday is a day of promise and potential, a day boys and girls come to experience Jesus.” Pretty much everything Eric did all week pointed to Sunday morning. It was the pinnacle of his week.

However, in the safety of those empty corridors, Eric’s mind sorted through repressed compartments and pulled out feelings of insecurity and dread. Yes, Sunday was the pinnacle of his week, and it was the day that he got to do the jobs he loved most and was best at. But Sunday was also the day the worst parts of his job also surfaced. No matter how much he wanted those dreaded pests to simply disappear, they were his reality. More than once in the privacy of his home, Eric found himself confessing to his wife, Rebecca, “If I didn’t have to deal with the hassle of undependable volunteers or clueless parents, this job would be absolutely perfect.”

When Eric was just a volunteer, all he knew was showing up and leading his small group of third-through-fifth-grade boys. He’d prepare for his lesson for days, and the forty minutes he had with them was the highlight of his week. When Eric came on staff, he naively thought that that forty minutes of pure joy would translate to forty hours of the same. He didn’t expect the constantly complaining parents asking him why the church didn’t do this or why the church did do that. Eric got a fair share of compliments and praises, but he couldn’t figure out why those select few parents could sap his joy so quickly. A run-in with two or three of those parents quickly sent him to a dark place.

Even worse were the volunteers. Most of them showed up on New-Hope time (i.e., five minutes before church began—well after most of the kids were already there). It didn’t matter how many times he begged and pleaded with them to arrive twenty minutes early, they always showed up when they felt like it, if they showed up at all. On Saturdays, Eric cringed every time his phone rang. On average, three to four volunteers would call to let him know that they would not be there the next day. Some had legitimate excuses; some didn’t. Some volunteers didn’t even call. Whether they actually forgot they were on the schedule or just ignored their duties because of a better opportunity, Eric never knew. Usually he didn’t ask either. Somehow it felt better to assume an emergency or sickness rather than face the reality that something they’d rather do came up.

Truth be told, Eric was a bit of a pushover. Sure, his pastor would be hard pressed to find a guy as kind and caring as Eric Newman. And he would be unlikely to find anyone with something bad to say about Eric, well, beside those few parents with their weekly list of complaints. But Eric didn’t rock the boat. When a herd of late volunteers ran into the classrooms at the last minute, Eric would let out a sigh of relief and say, “I can’t tell you how glad I am to see you!” Only later would he send his volunteers a blanket e-mail not singling anyone out but reminding all of them to be early each week.

In the darkness and stillness of that early Sunday morning, inevitably Eric’s thoughts exposed what he dreaded most: Which volunteers are not going to show up today? We’re a little low on help this morning, but if everyone shows up, we can just about cover every room. Wait, who am I kidding? Everyone never shows up on the same week, and I’m going to spend the first fifteen minutes of both services shuffling volunteers around, and at least one of our rooms is going to have a whacked-out ratio of children to teachers. I’ll walk on the stage of Kids Church five minutes late and drenched in sweat, just like every Sunday.

As Eric finished up his duties around the church, he reflected on the stillness of that Sunday morning. He loved that early Sunday-morning solitude and the extra time to think, pray, and contemplate. He considered it his time to just be. However, more often than not, it ended up being the calm before the storm—that raging storm that came every seventh day at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Sunday truly was the best day of his week, but buried in the background was a constant sense of dread. It was an ever-present dread that made Sundays so much less than what they were supposed to be for Eric Newman.

More to come...