On Saturday, November 7, 2020 we celebrated the 10 year Anniversary of the Toronto Children’s Ministry Conference and first fully virtual conference! It was a fantastic day of celebrating 10 years of God’s faithfulness in hosting this excellent 1 day training event for ministry staff and volunteers to be equipped in issues related to children and family ministry. This year’s conference was unique both because we moved it online due to the current pandemic but also because we invited presenters to specifically address a variety of topics in light of “Reimagining Children’s Ministry in a Covid-shaped World.” There will be more reviews and learning shared in future posts but today CBOQ Kids would like to take an opportunity to congratulate and celebrate Pastor Laura Sellakandu of Lorne Park Baptist Church! Laura is this year’s recipient of the Keating Award for Ministry Staff Excellence.

The Keating Award is designed to recognize and encourage an individual who demonstrates excellence in contributions to Children’s ministry in a staff position. This is award is given based on nominations from others. The guidelines used to determine the recipient include the following:

•  Is a paid staff worker
• Exemplifies a love of children and their learning/spiritual growth.
• Knows the Christian faith.
• Models the teachings of Christ.
• Demonstrates an exceptional ability in working with others.
• Has had a positive impact on the children and the church.
• Cultivates in children a living biblical faith.

Anyone that knows Laura knows that she certainly exemplifies these qualities and so much more! Congratulations Laura!