AWANA

The acrostic AWANA comes from the first letters of "Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed" (II Timothy 2:15). Awana Clubs International is an excellent Bible based program which is active all over the United States and in many foreign countries. The heart of AWANA is the Gospel message. AWANA strongly emphasizes memorizing and understanding Scripture while offering games and a variety of Bible-related activities. The values and verses learned in AWANA help participants live Christ-honoring lives even at a young age. AWANA is a part of the Children’s Ministry of Second Baptist Church. Please see the related web site links (at right) for additional information and resources regarding AWANA.

When does AWANA meet?

AWANA meets each Wednesday evening from 6:00-7:30. Our registration begins for each club at 5:50. We need every parent’s help by having your child registered each night by 6:00.

What ages can participate?

AWANA is offered for three year olds (must be three by September 1 of current school year) through the sixth grade.

How is AWANA organized?

AWANA is divided into age groups called “clubs.” Each club has a name, handbooks, and activities appropriate for that age group. Children are registered in their club’s meeting area.

Cubbies (3 and 4 year olds)

This program features Cubby Bear, a preschool character who aids in memorizing verses and teaching basic Bible truths along with popular preschool concepts of color, shapes, numbers, and letters. Cubbies have a blue vest with accompanying awards and a zoo motif. Cubbies meet in rooms 6, 7, 8, and 9 in the Education Building.

 

Sparks (K5 through 2nd grade)

This club features Sparky, a fun firefly character who leads the children through age appropriate handbooks. Sparks have a red vest and accompanying awards and a nature motif. Sparks meet in rooms 23, 25, 26, and 27 in the Education Building.

 

Truth and Training (3rd through 6th grade)

These clubs wear green casual shirts with accompanying awards. Four age level handbooks per club contain a variety of Bible memorization and Bible centered achievement activities.

What are AWANA Awards?

AWANA offers a unique awards system that helps motivate both club members and leaders to achieve. When clubbers complete entrance booklets, they are then eligible to wear the official AWANA uniform or vest. When completing sections in handbooks and other achievements, they receive patches, bars, and other awards to display proudly on their uniforms. Achievements earned each Wednesday night also equal points and a weekly award for the winning team. These incentives reinforce regular attendance, good behavior and enthusiasm for learning. Children that complete their handbooks will receive a special award at the end of the year ceremony.

What goes on in an AWANA meeting?

Each club meeting is divided into four segments: Opening Ceremony, Game Time, Handbook Time, and Council Time.

Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony begins at 6:00pm in the Family Life Center for the Truth and Training Clubs. Cubbies and Sparks attend Flag Ceremonies in their respective rooms.

 

Game Time

Game Time provides fun and develops cooperation, team spirit, sportsmanship, and positive character qualities as teams compete. It features fun, active games that you will not find anywhere else. Boys and girls participate in the unique AWANA game circle by age groups. Game time is held on the gym floor, so clubbers need to wear tennis shoes with non-marking soles. This will help them participate adequately during game time.

Handbook Time

This informal, small group time provides an opportunity to challenge kids to learn and memorize God's word. Many children have accepted Christ as their Savior during this special one-on-one time. Its emphasis is on scripture memory and careful study of God's Word. Leaders build a strong relationship with kids in their group and serve as Godly role models.

Council Time

This group segment varies from week to week and includes songs, testimonies, missions emphasis, stories, prayer time, guest speakers, Bible messages and award presentation.

Personnel

Commander: Jimmy Bailey (baileyseven@comsouth.net)
Cubbies Director: Gayle Matoy
Sparks Directors: Willie and Donna Chance
Chums Director: Valerie Thompson
Pals Director: Clint Johnson
Guards Director: Debbie Stephens
Pioneers Director: Keith Boyd
Game Director: Bubba Gibbs