Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU) invites all children in grades 1-6 to join thousands of kids across the country in hands-on ministry in their communities during Children’s Missions Day Saturday, Feb. 15.
From feeding hungry people to visiting shut-ins, boys and girls follow God’s command to “put your love into action” (1 John 3:18).
Church groups create projects that meet needs in their own communities. WMU created Children’s Missions Day to move children out of their churches and into their communities to do missions.
The first Children’s Missions Day was in 2008. Since then, thousands of people have taken part in this special day. WMU recently changed the name of this event from Children’s Ministry Day to Children’s Missions Day.
WMU offers three suggestions as congregations prepare for CMD:
As a church, begin to ask for volunteers for Children’s Missions Day. Always have responsible helpers in case of an accident or a situation in which you will need assistance. Collect the names and contact information of parents. Require signed permission slips to take children off church property. Inquire about food allergies or other medical conditions that leaders need to know.
Within your children’s missions group, leaders realize that all children are not at the same level of cognitive or physical ability. Knowing each child, modify or adapt activities where each child achieves a measure of success. Make each child feel special, unique, and loved by God.
Although one goal is for the children to have fun and enjoy being together, ask yourself: What are children learning about serving others while serving God? Engage children in loving people by visiting and singing songs with an elderly neighbor. Collect and deliver toiletries to a homeless shelter. Write thank-you notes to your church staff. Your choices should have a measurable impact on the people they serve.
If you have comments or questions about Children’s Missions Day, email [email protected] or contact your state WMU office.
(EDITOR’S NOTE – Carolyn Tomlin writes for Woman’s Missionary Union.)