Ministry isn’t always what it seems. Sure, there’s always curriculum to prep, copies to make, stages to assemble, and schedules to figure out. That part never really stops. But lately, I feel like God has been gently nudging me—reminding me that ministry is also, and maybe even more so, about people.

It’s easy to get caught up in the checklist. I’m constantly running around on Sundays and Wednesdays—making sure everything is in place, answering questions, and solving last-minute problems. And while I believe in being real and intentional with others, I sometimes struggle to find the margin to truly be with them.

One of my personal goals this past year has been to slow down enough to connect—not just with the kids I serve, but with the adults serving alongside me. I want to know people beyond just a name on the volunteer schedule or a face in a classroom. I want to do ministry with people, not just around them.

And can I just say? God met me in that goal in such a beautiful, unexpected way.

What started as a simple intention to connect with a few volunteers turned into something so much more. It became deep friendships, prayer partners, encouragers, and trusted teammates. This wasn’t something I could’ve planned—this was totally a God thing.

I remember two moments vividly. Both involved new families—new moms who wanted to serve. One offered to help with admin work (yes, please!), and the other was the “just give me anything and I’ll do it” kind of person. I was grateful for both. They came at different times, but in both cases, I found myself having long conversations with them—conversations that initially left me feeling a bit behind on my to-do list. I had things to get done, after all! My mental list was long, and hour-long chats weren’t exactly part of the plan.

But here’s what God showed me: those conversations were the plan.

They were ministry.

We talked about past hurts, parenting struggles, our faith journeys, and ministry challenges. We prayed together, shared life together, cried and laughed together. And yes, we still got things done. But more importantly, we built something better: trust, community, friendship. These women became so much more than volunteers—they became people I could count on. People who challenged me to think differently. People who reminded me that ministry isn’t just about leading others; it’s about walking alongside them, too.

Kids ministry is broad. It’s busy. There’s always something to plan, print, or fix. And I know that even as you read this, your mind might already be racing ahead to what needs to be done this Sunday.

But let me encourage you—pause.

Slow down just enough to see the people God is placing in front of you. Make time for the few He brings to your side. You might find a friend. You might find fresh encouragement. You might even find that the most meaningful ministry moments happen in between all the hustle—over coffee, through conversation, or sitting cross-legged on the classroom floor.

Because sometimes, the most impactful thing you can build in ministry… is relationship.

Jodie Slongo is the Kids' Director at Stony Creek Church in Utica, Michigan, and has been involved in Kids Ministry since her teenage years. When she's not serving at church, she enjoys spending time with her family. One of their favorite activities is visiting the charming town of Frankenmuth, where they go about once a month. They especially love exploring Bronner's, the world's largest Christmas store, where Jodie is always on the lookout for unique or cool ornaments.