October 2, 2026
ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. — More than 240 children’s ministry leaders from across the state gathered last month at St. Simons Island for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board's Kids' Ministry Summit. The annual event provides leaders with an opportunity to learn, share, and be refreshed and encouraged alongside others who share their calling.
“Kids Ministry Summit was great!” declared Krista Staton, GBMB Kids Ministry consultant. "This was our largest crowd yet."
Staton explained that the gathering is designed to give leaders a chance to rest and recharge alongside others who share their calling, while also equipping them with practical, relevant insights that won’t feel overwhelming. She said her hope is that every participant leaves with actionable ideas they can take back and put into practice in their churches — and she believes that goal was met.
She added, “The time spent together with others investing in children never disappoints; there is just something special about being in the room with like-minded individuals. The time together is refreshing, enlightening, and rewarding.”
This year's keynote speaker was Danielle Bell, who shared from her nearly three decades of children’s ministry experience. Bell is also the author of several ministry resources, including God’s Brave Girl and The Gospel: God’s Plan for Me (Lifeway), as well as the younger KidMin chapter in the Children’s Ministry Volunteer Handbook (Outreach).
“Danielle Bell did an amazing job teaching and encouraging,” Staton said, “and the worship time was so sweet and special.”
Several attendees said the summit offered practical training and the encouragement that comes from being in a room full of people who understand the day-to-day joys and challenges of children’s ministry. Stephen Awtrey, children’s pastor at McConnell Baptist Church in Hiawassee, said this was his fourth year attending and he appreciates the summit’s smaller setting, strong speakers, and worship leadership. He also said the event provides valuable opportunities to build relationships with other leaders, adding that Staton and her team “do a great job” investing in children’s ministry workers.
Others pointed to both the content and the community as reasons they plan to return. Hannah Foval, director of children and family ministries at First Baptist Church of Gray, said the summit “did not disappoint,” calling it her third year and noting it’s a meaningful chance to reconnect with friends and meet new ones. Michelle Gaddy, children’s minister at Palmetto Baptist Church, said she found Bell’s messages relatable and helpful, and left with ideas she could implement immediately—especially tools to better partner with parents, including preparing resources such as an “anxiety bag” and a “grief bag.” Gaddy called the summit “one of my favorite few days of the year.”
Staton encouraged all those involved in ministering to children to consider attending next year’s event. “You don’t want to miss it, and if you haven’t been before, you need to make plans to join us next year. Be looking out for dates in February 2027.”
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