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? 

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

Taking A Break

This past summer I did something I had never done before, I took a break from all social media and just listened to God and made time to focus and work on me. It was truly a life changing week. Out of that week came tons of revelation knowledge. It was truly a game changer sooooooooooo.......I'm doing it again! I'm just saying no to email, twitter and facebook as well as my blog for a whole week. I can't wait to tell you next week what I learn.
Goodbye #kidmin universe, I'm taking a little me time.

Re-post: Keeping Life Simple- Part 5...

Here are the final 6 of the 18 steps I use to keep life simple when things are crazy...

13.      Don’t ever quit or make big decisions during the madness. Major decisions and crazy times don’t go together. This is a key rule to remember.

14.      Don’t make people decisions when time is limited. When it concerns someone else, take your time and consider things from every angle. Always treat others the way you would want them to treat you or your kids. Don’t let the shortness of the hour keep you from making a wise decision, slow things down and think it through when it affects people.

15.      Develop a plan to make next year better.  Learn from your experiences. As soon as an event is over I ask my team what did we learn? How can we make it better? What do we need to simplify?  Do this while it’s fresh on your mind, go ahead and start next year’s file.

16.      Get feedback from others. A good leader is a good listener. I consult others before hand, during, and afterward and get a cross section of opinions from different perspectives.

17.      When it’s over, crash! Get some rest. I try to always schedule a break between big pushes. Watch out for too many irons in the fire. Be realistic on the amount of projects you take on. I have learned to get others on board to help you limit what you do. I have a group I run outside projects b so I don’t take on more than I can handle.

18.      Do more by doing less. Focus on the main thing. Why were you put on the earth? If God has a wonderful plan for your life, (and He does!) then what is that plan? Focus on your main thing. Focus calls for a concentrated push or intentional actions. What are you doing presently that’s keeping you from your main thing? Just because it a good idea doesn’t make it a God idea.

            If you are serious about mastering the art of simplifying life you must master the habit of evaluating constantly. Listen to your spouse. Ask the timeless question…”Where’s the beef?” Examine and inspect fruit, gains, and losses. Evaluate efficiency and look for ways to build systems and streamline efforts. Every experience in you life teaches something a great question is what did I learn today from life?

Ask daily “What should I discontinue, change and/or add to my life? Last but not least, look for your next step. God leads us in steps not leaps or jumps. We calm the crazy and simplify life by walking life out in steps and climbing them one at a time.

Want to know more? Read my book "Beat The Clock" it will help you!

Oh by the way I scheduled all these posts last week just to keep this week simple!

Re-post: Keeping Life Simple-part 4...

Here are my next 6 steps I use to keep life simple when things are crazy...

7.      Get creative with your family time. I try to take a family member with me every chance I get. I also try to combine my family time with something else. I go walking with Julie, cycling with Julie, Shopping with Yancy, Whitney and Julie, movies with my sons-in-laws and baby sit my Grandson anytime they will let me. I like to call them when I can just to say hi and to encourage and let them know I proud I am of them. 

8.      Schedule a break even if it’s only for a few hours when you are at you craziest. Even convicts get time off for good behavior. If I can’t go out of town or schedule a massage I make time to play my guitar or visit a music store or make a Starbucks run, or a bicycle store. These kinds of breaks are real therapy for me and all take me to a happy place.

9.      Be open to change in your lifestyle. Different results require different actions.

Don’t despise change. Change is not a four-letter word it’s a six-letter word and can be your friend. (Which is also a six-letter word.) When I have to change something that I know is not a permanent change I remind myself this is only for a short while and I can do this! As with anything else guard your thoughts and your tongue and line them both up with scripture.

10.      Do your homework and see what others do in hectic times. I love to study busy people. I check up on busy people by calling, emailing, read their books and blogs, network at conferences or on facebook. I look for new places to learn all the time.

11.      Stop and listen to Jesus.  I shouldn’t have to say this to Children’s ministers but make time for the Word! You are the only person who can make sure you stay refreshed spiritually, and that you feed your spirit. If you can’t go to church, listen to the CD. Sing and praise God in the car in the shower and in the craziness of life.

12.      When you are tired and busy, don’t think, rely on a checklist. I’ve been saying this before I got gray hair, “Paper is for remembering not my brain. I don’t try to remember anything that I can know by having information with me.