Texas. Large. Church. Forum.

This Tuesday and Wednesday, leaders from about 10 independent large churches in Texas are gathering exchange ideas and build relationships. I don't have much time for a full post but wanted to dump my thoughts from the first day of the "Texas Large Church Forum". All of these thoughts pertain specifically to the Junior High ministries of these churches...

• Bent Tree Bible Fellowship takes their kids on tons (over 20) of mission trips each summer!
• Chase Oaks Church had a great idea with the "box of consequences". I'm gonna try it.
• Fellowship Bible Dallas has found great church-wide synergy around 3 words: worship, grow, and serve.
• First Evangelical Free Church has a great vision built around 2 words: community and mission. They also did a hilarious series of 24 parody videos.
• Hill Country Bible has a great small group ministry built around a great volunteer team.
• Oak Hills Church does a really interesting parent meeting once a month.
• Stonebriar Church has had some great ideas for student leadership.
• The Village breaks up their teaching into 3 sections with discussions following each segment.
• Gateway Church is willing to wrestle with the question "why" when it comes to "normal" student ministry programs.

I've loved meeting with all the guys and gals from these churches who have a heart for Junior High kids. Can't wait for tomorrow's exchanges...