Children’s Ministries

State of Children’s Ministry

In phase 1 of the Love of Children program, we sought to gain valuable information by partnering with CARRD and OrgStory to help assess the state of children’s ministry within the United Church of Christ. In 2023 we ran three surveys and hosted several small group or individual sessions with key stakeholders including: conference staff, children’s ministry leaders, parents, national staff and the current General Minister & President. While we will continue to engage these audiences throughout the grant cycle, we have compiled the results as well.

Through this research, we were given a glimpse into the needs and gifts of Children’s Ministry in our congregations and settings. In addition to the insights we gleaned, it was also clear that there is a great need for us to strengthen our communication, build relationships with congregations, and continue the process of receiving and applying feedback from the full, diverse range of United Church of Christ communities so that all children can be supported and nurtured by the resources we develop. Our evaluation is ongoing, and we want to hear from you about how we can help support your ministry!