We sometimes face downtimes in the church when our teaching ministry slows down or is temporarily suspended. Summer tends to be one of those times but for some churches these kinds of decisions must be made in light of current events.
Use Downtime for Self-Study Teacher Training
If you can’t gather your Bible teachers together for a training seminar, it doesn’t mean you can’t provide training. Check out the list of different ways to provide teacher training at: In a Teacher Training Rut?
Though you may not be able to use the means that require large group or even one-on-one meeting, there are ways to adapt even some of those means through the use of technology. But, consider using this time as an opportunity to do training in ways not normally used. Ministry Tools Resource Center can provide an economical source for the following dowloadable resources that can be used for self-study:
(Though these resources may not be put on your church website, you do have permission to e-mail the files -PDFs- to your teachers.)
Tips for Self-Study Training
- Try to choose topics relevant to the needs of the individual teachers. That will help with motivation.
- Plan follow-up for questions and feedback, letting them know you will be contacting them at a given point. That will provide some accountability.
Also, keep the line of communication open during downtime to encourage and support them personally, not just in their teaching capacity. That will let them know you care.
I love this so much! I plan to design lesson plans and study in areas of the word that I’ve been wanting to get to for the longest. Thank you for your dedication and hard work. Love this website.
Praise God, Efia, that you see the value of constructively utilizing this “downtime” for the glory of God. While I’m sure most of us can benefit from just relaxing a bit, this is a great time to dig into God’s Word and take time for learning/training. Thanks for commenting.