We were recently talking about bus ministry, which is something we both are involved in at our local churches, respectively. In fact, Aubrey’s dad, who is a pastor, was actually saved as a kid through bus ministry! I think that’s an awesome testimony.
Many people that we know either currently lead a bus ministry, or have expressed interest in starting one—so we put our heads together and decided to do a few posts with tips and ideas for bus ministry and outreach. We by no means are acting like we have all the answers or are the greatest experts, but these are some things that work for us!
Remember your “why”.
Remind yourself of why you are involved in this ministry. Our primary reason for doing is to introduce these kids to Jesus and to teach them how to be saved and then disciples. Special programs, fun, games, and snacks are all good, but our focus is helping these kids build a relationship with God. A great way to start the Sunday route is by praying as you go to pick up the kids that the Lord will lead and guide your focus.
Consistent weekly visitation
This is vital, even when you have a steady stream of regular van riders. Grab some flyers and candy, and hit the places where you know kids will be outside! We have found apartment complexes to be great for this. A lot of churches make a theme for each Sunday and put it on the weekly flyers. For example, one Sunday might be called “Lollipop Sunday” and everyone who rides gets a lollipop on the way home. The possibilities are endless, just be creative! This also helps create excitement and an incentive for kids to come that Sunday. However, remember that dazzling flyer or promotion alone will not develop an effective bus or van ministry. Consistent investment in the community through prayer, visitation, relationship building, and meeting known needs will be the foundation for a fruitful bus or van ministry.
Always make them feel loved and important
Often, the children we pick up on van/bus routes come from underprivileged and even abusive home lives. For many of them, the few short hours on Sunday is the high point of their week. Think about how you can let them know that they truly matter to God and to you. Let them know you care about them individually—that they are more than just a person to fill up a bus. Their are many ways to do this, and you can tailor it to fit your personality. A little bit of friendliness goes a long way: a big smile and greeting (by name!) as they board the church van, a simple “Love you!” as they disembark. Some churches even roll out a red carpet for their bus riders when they arrive at church! People will never forget how you made them feel. Let the God’s love shine through you and make them want to come back every week.
Don’t Lose Your Passion
It’s easy to get so caught up in doing what needs to be done for ministry that we can start to go through the motions—however, the fire can’t go out! Make sure you are getting filled with the presence of God in your church’s other services as well. It’s hard to pour out from an empty cup. Renew your burden so you can continue to give it your VERY best!
Make the Trip to and from Church Exciting!
Don’t just sit there…do something :) Traveling to and from Sunday School with the perfect time to build relationships, have fun, and even throw in some spiritual lessons! Here are some things you can do with children as you are riding to and from church:
• Sing songs
• Teach a memory verse
• Play games
• If the van or bus is equipped, play Christian music and sing a long
•Talk to the kids (Many times the ride home is when they open up)
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