Our Distinctive
Awana’s Distinctive
Churches need to know the principles that make Awana a distinct ministry tool for Churches. Lance Latham, Awana One of Founders, established five principles to govern our Awana Ministry. They are numbered below.
Knowing what makes us unique actually knows who we are. Your entire ministry with Awana finds its foundation in Lance Latham’s five Principles.
1.) It must be centered on the Gospel
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the most important piece of information that anyone can ever hear. It is the task of Awana to get it out clearly to every young person and their family that we can. We need to be sure we equip every Awana Leader with the tool to share that wonderful message and that we use every opportunity to share it with kids and their families. Ministry Application: The Gospel is shared with Children at any point of the program. Some kids only come once to Awana, and they go home with a very clear explanation of the Gospel. Truth Seeker curriculum has its focus on Biblical foundations – from creation to Christ. Seed Planter Training Teaches our Leaders how to present the Gospel clearly. The Gospel is in our teaching, handbooks, awards, Bible quizzing, etc.
2.) It must have high scripture memory content
Knowing scripture changes who we are. Awana believes the word must be memorized and lived through our lives. Ministry Application: Teaching, handbooks, Truth Seekers curriculum, awards, Bible quizzing (where applicable)
“Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee” (Psalms 119:11).
3.) It must be exciting to young people
We have all heard the saying, “if a kid is having fun he or she will listen to what you have to say.” This saying applies at Church, club and even at School. Club programs should be fun. If Club is fun the kid will come back, and they will invite their friends.
Ask participants for examples of clubs that they have been part of that are fun. Give examples of things done in club that kids talked about over and over again. Share ideas that did not work well to contrast. Compare fun clubs with not so fun clubs.
Ministry applications: Game Time, Large Group Time, Awards.
4.) It must train youth to serve as soon as they are ready
If all we do is teach students to learn God’s word we have not done enough. We all know people who study, study and study. They absorb knowledge like a sponge but never pass on their knowledge. Let me suggest that if we are not also teaching our students how to give back to others and in community, we are hurting them more that we are helping them.
5.) It must be based upon Leadership
A program is only as good as its leadership. The number one reason churches drop Awana is because of lack of good leadership. Well-Trained, committed leaders make for healthy, long lasting clubs. “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach other also.” 2 Timothy 2:2.