Our CM policies are not enforced
Your Question:
“We have policies, but they aren’t enforced. How can we make sure the policies are enforced?”
The Issues:
Leading a children’s ministry (CM) is very political! You deal with relationships, feelings, authority figures, social pressures and the desire to increase the volunteers on your CM team. Wisdom and discernment will empower you to always choose “what’s best for the children” in enforcing your policies, regardless of the pressures you face.
Scripture Foundation:
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15: 58
Short Answer:
You lead the CM because you care for people. Your love of people is also a wonderful asset when you begin building your CM team. Your sensitivity and your love of people can be a dangerous factor in enforcing your policies and procedures. You may be tempted to “let things slide” as you oversee the CM team. You may want everyone to be happy, or to like you; so, you avoid confronting people or preventing them from doing what they want to do. Enforcing the policies requires you to choose the safety of the children, or the function of the CM over your feelings about the people on the CM team. Remember that strong boundaries actually produce security in people. This is true for children, and it is also true for adults. When you enforce your policies, you can do so kindly, yet firmly. If, in your process of enforcing your policies, members of your CM team react negatively, you may be faced with replacing those non-submissive team members with new team members who graciously understand the purpose for the policies and submit willingly. For more help, click on the links below.
