The Heart and Vision Behind ann Awana Awards Celebration

Throughout the Awana year, you’ve taught children and students the Word of God “for such a time as this.” A global pandemic, isolation, and economic uncertainty … can you imagine living through this difficult time without strong faith?

It’s because of our resiliency that we can rejoice even in times of crisis. It’s through Awana that children gain the biblical knowledge to remain resilient. It’s also why it is so important to celebrate their growth as disciples.

Normally, clubs end their ministry year with an awards ceremony. Even if your club isn’t meeting in person, you can carry on the tradition. Ed Gossien, who oversees the Awana missionaries as vice president of U.S. field operations, explains the heart and vision behind this traditional celebration, why awards still matter, and how leaders can make the most of them.

Because, as he points out, awards motivate young children, it’s important to offer awards. But he stresses it is up to you to help kids understand the value of the awards. Over the course of time, the goal is that the value of awards moves from being external to being internal.

When children are young, the external motivation is marked by keeping track and keeping score. The goal when they’re older is that the value of the award becomes more about things of the Lord and what they have learned along the way — that they become motivated by a heart change, doing the right thing, and spiritual growth. These concepts are difficult to explain to second graders as you’re handing them their Sparky awards. They’ll understand more when they’re older.

Right now, focus on the discipleship journey. Think of their awards as a milestone, a mile marker on a journey that will continue for the rest of their lives.

Says Ed, “Awards are important and they have their place. It’s up to us, as leaders, to present them well. Help children understand that what they are receiving is more than just a physical award. Keep reminding them along the way, ‘This is about you getting to know Jesus and learning to be more like Him. That’s what this award represents.’”

For more tips and ideas to celebrate, download the resources in our free Year-End Celebration Kit and don’t forget to place your end-of-year order early. The Awana Store has your awards, as well as other fun items to recognize the kids in your care.

What plans do you have for an awards ceremony this year? Tell us about them in the comments, below.

This blog has been updated. It originally was published April 2020.