02/22/2026
Shoutout to our leaders who received awards this weekend at DNOW 2026! We had so much fun walking the red carpet, recapping our year, & highlighting some special things about some special people!
The Early Bird Award
“Some people hit snooze. Some people hit Starbucks. But this leader? They hit the building before the lights are even on. Every event, every Sunday, every DNOW — they’re already here setting up chairs, checking in students, and praying over the room. Ministry doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because someone shows up early. And this leader shows up every time.”
The Spiritual Parent Award
“There are leaders… and then there are spiritual parents. The kind who text during the week. Show up to games. Ask real questions. Pray real prayers. They don’t just lead a small group — they shepherd hearts. If you’ve ever felt truly seen and known in this ministry, there’s a good chance this leader had something to do with it.”
The Calm in the Chaos Award
“Middle schoolers arguing. High school drama. Things running late. Sound system not working. And somehow… this leader never panics. They are the human version of ‘It’s going to be okay.’ When the room gets loud, they get to business. When things get chaotic, they get serious. Ministry needs anchors!
The Ride or Die Award
“If there’s a trip… they’re driving. If there’s a camp… they’re loading bags. If there’s a last-minute need… they’re saying yes. This leader has probably spent more time in a church van than their own living room. Faithful. Available. Always ready. Ministry moves because this leader moves.”
The Prayer Warrior Award
“There are battles you never see. Conversations you don’t hear. Tears you don’t know about. But heaven does. And this leader fights for students on their knees. They pray by name. They pray specifically. They pray faithfully. And the impact of those prayers? Eternal.”
The Hype Leader Award
“If there’s a chant — they started it. If there’s a dance — they’re leading it. If there’s a competition — they’re already too competitive. Energy matters. Joy matters. And this leader brings both at full volume. Ministry should be fun — and this leader makes sure it is.”
The All Around Talent Award
“Some leaders just ball out. If it’s a 1V1, game over. If it’s a water balloon fight, you’ll never see a dry day again. If it’s Madden, 56-6. If you know you know.”
The “No Other Name” Award
“This award isn’t about personality. It’s about character. It’s about humility. It’s about a life that points clearly to Jesus. When students look at this leader, they see faith lived out. Not perfection — but authenticity. Not spotlight-seeking — but Christ-reflecting. This leader reminds us why we’re here.”
