March 23, 2025
JEKYLL ISLAND, Ga. — Nearly 200 kids ministry leaders, Georgia Baptist Mission Board staff, and vendors, came together for a ‘summit’ on Feb. 6 and 7 at the Jekyll Island Resort. Those leaders represented 99 Georgia Baptist churches from across the state.
Krista Staton, GBMB Kids Ministry consultant, says the gathering provides leaders with “a time of rest and relaxation with like-minded individuals so they can continue their ministry, but at the same time giving them valuable, pertinent information without overwhelming them.” Staton adds, “I want everyone to be able to have takeaways that they are able to go back to their churches and implement, and I believe we were able to accomplish that!”
Rebecca Willoughby, kids’ ministry director at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Cartersville, agrees the summit was a success. “Kids Ministry Summit checks all the boxes!” she exclaimed. “I was spiritually renewed through incredible worship. I was professionally encouraged and challenged through excellent speakers and interactions with other ministry leaders. And personally, I left replenished by the opportunity to get away to a beautiful location with beautiful people. I highly recommend Kids Ministry Summit! I can't wait for next year!”
Participants heard talks on topics such as “Rewiring of the Brain and Stress Management,” “Practical Tips for Classroom Management,” and “Ways to Use AI in Kids Ministry.”
Bekki Rogers, children’s director at FBC Sandersville, is a veteran attendee at the summit. “I’ve been blessed to attend the last five Kids Ministry Summits and this one might’ve been my favorite so far,” she said. “I loved the variety of speakers and topics and have already started utilizing a lot of what I learned, from managing stress to using AI for object lessons and games.”
Rogers pointed out that in addition to practical learning, participants took time to worship together and praise God. “I adored Joy Stevens and our time of worship. Such a blessing!”
Other attendees had similar enthusiastic comments, with one sharing, “I love how intentional GBMB is being about pouring into ministry leaders!”
Next year's event will again be held on the island in February 2026.
