Stay Connected Through the Summer

Yesterday, I met with some of my Bible study teachers. When Megan arrived, she settled in a chair, looked at the ladies gathered around the table, and, with a sigh, announced, “I have missed being with women!” The rest of us felt the same!

Summer is a great time for families and relaxation. But, the erratic schedule and unique dynamics of the season sure puts a strain on women’s ministry and our relationships with each other.

However, as women’s ministry leaders, we can proactively work to stay connected to the women of the church and keep them in contact with each other. Then, when “normal” returns in September, we won’t have lost momentum. And, you can do it from wherever you happen to wander this summer by taking advantage of technology and social media.

Here are a few ways to continue ministry, maintain contact, and foster relationships between the women of your church during the summer:

• Online Bible Study – Organize an online Bible study group for summer. Use a closed Facebook group for women to share insights and ask questions anytime that works for them.
• Prayer – Organize your women into small prayer groups. Assign a leader to keep things moving. They can share requests via group texts or email.
• “Spontaneous” Fellowship – Use your women’s ministry’s social media accounts to publicize “spontaneous” fellowship events. For example, plan a picnic at a local park for moms and their kids. Since families keep a super flexible summer schedule, don’t publicize the event in advance. Instead, blast social media with invitations the night before and the morning of the event. Keep it simple! Invite them to bring their kids and a sack lunch. The point is simply to get your women together.
• Meet New Friends – Again, take advantage of your ministry’s social media accounts to foster relationships between the women of your church. Once or twice a week, introduce a woman and her family to the women of your church. Share a photo, hobbies, and interesting facts. The goal is to encourage the women to connect with each other and make new friends.

With a small amount of effort and the right tools, you can keep ministry moving and women relating, all summer long!