How does technology factor into how you operate your children's ministry?

A recent study conducted by Rev. Jason Rhodes and entitled "The Technological Revolution in Children's Ministries" showed that "enhanced illustrative methods and communication means with parents and volunteers are among the ways that children's ministry leaders are using technology to improve the effectiveness of their efforts."

The online survey featured responses from 434 children's ministry leaders from among 45 U.S. states and 13 countries abroad, with a variety of denominations represented. The following trends regarding technology usage in the local church children's ministry setting were identified.

* The top five most commonly used technology items in children's ministry included CD player, VCR, DVD player, sound system, and live or recorded video

* Sound, computer, video, lighting, and photography are among the most common technologically based ministry areas in which the children serve

* 72% of respondents involve kids in technology-related areas of ministry

* 42% have a Web site for their children's ministry

* 17% have used streaming Internet content in children's church

"Children's ministry pragmatics are influenced by technology," said Rhodes. "Children's ministry leaders report a desire to use whatever illustrative methods available to make an unchanging message relevant to the children they serve."

We know that your children's and youth ministries are important components of your church, and this issue focuses on making those components run as smoothly as possible. This section features information including evaluating and selecting curriculum, increasing funds for these ministries, and planning for Vacation Bible School (yep, it's just around the corner!).

I'm always interested in hearing from you. You can reach me at jill@rpnmag.com.

God Bless,

Jill Pinheiro
Managing Editor