AWANA Small Groups: Growing Together

August 10, 2022
Jenn Gerber

Serving in AWANA the past three years gave me the immense privilege of shepherding a Small Group of girls.

I’d served in AWANA before. In previous years, I volunteered because I was already bringing my kids out to church so I might as well stay and help. But now, my children were all well beyond that stage, and yet I was feeling called back to T&T Girls (Truth and Training, 3rd-6th graders.) I said “yes” and God was so faithful to equip me and bless me tremendously over the next 3 years! Praise Him!

Every Wednesday night, I would have Small Group time with “my girls”. I listened to their memorized verses, we talked about that night’s lesson, and then we shared prayer requests and prayed. They were fourth graders our first year together and, boy, did those prayer requests change by the time they were sixth graders! They were maturing quickly and reminding me weekly of the difficult things they faced every day at home and at school. It was a complete privilege to pray for each of them. And their sweet prayers for me and my family humbled me, as well.

Of course, there were lots of laughs, too. AWANA is a blast!!! I mean – games, prizes, snacks, crafts, parties and even a sleepover – who wouldn’t love it?? It was such a joy to serve alongside the other leaders—fellowshiping, encouraging and learning from one another as we opened God’s Word, shared the Gospel, and pointed the girls to His Truths.

I told “my girls” that even though our Small Group has come to an end (they have now moved on to Jr High) I will still be keeping my eyes on them! I will continue to pray for and be available to them in any ways I can. I pray their years in AWANA and our times together have strengthened their faith in God alone as their firm foundation. And I’m so thankful to God – whenever we say yes to serving him, in the power He alone provides, He never ceases to grow and change us in amazing ways. We can’t outgive our generous God!

 

Jenn Gerber and her husband Mark have three children ages 17-25. Jenn has served in many roles in Children’s Ministry at East White Oak and is currently the Women’s Ministry Director. She also serves on the worship team. She is currently the manager of Royal Acres mobile home park and serves as a children’s leader with BSF. In her free time she enjoys baking, going for walks, and getting together with friends.