I have been involved in children’s ministries for many years and have had the privilege of serving as a Shepherd in the Children’s Ministry during the 9:45 service since the second week we joined the Trinity family. The opportunity has been a continuous blessing, and I look forward to serving every week. While not a part of the Security team, we are responsible for ensuring the safety of each child. Each Shepherd submits a background check and completes training to understand the roles and responsibilities of the position, not to mention being trained to support and coordinate response in the children’s area, such as in the event an evacuation is required. Shepherds also monitor classrooms to see if teachers need any assistance or additional support during the hour.

 
It’s such a joy to see the children on a weekly basis. One of my favorite parts of being a Shepherd is watching their progress as they grow physically and spiritually. It is an absolute blessing!  

 
Shepherd duties are a ministry to children and is equally a ministry opportunity to parents. All teachers in the Children’s Department do an excellent job caring for and teaching each child, but the Shepherds are the face that parents get to see most often. New parents, and especially those visiting, need to have confidence that their precious children will be safe while they attend worship services and/or Sunday School. It’s important that they can feel comfortable and confident in leaving their children with us. Shepherds have the opportunity to greet parents, ease the transition for their children and at the same time put the parents at ease, so that they can fully engage in worship. I consider this one of the most important roles that Shepherds perform.

 
There are always opportunities to serve as a Shepherd, either on a regular basis, once a month as a part of a rotation, or as an occasional resource to fill in when there is a need. It is definitely a fulfilling and valuable way to serve the Body at Trinity.