by Cathy Ballantine
Leading Anchors in 2025 has surprised me more than I ever expected. Stepping into this year, I never imagined God would lead me where He did. As you may have read from my previous blog, I stepped far outside my comfort zone and became the leader for six Anchor boys at 16th Brisbane. For someone who has never naturally gravitated toward face‑to‑face work with children, this decision surprised not only others—but me most of all.
But God called.
I answered.
And He gave me the heart, courage, and joy to do it.
Lessons from Leading Anchors
From Wriggly to Ready
Watching these boys grow in their BB habits has been one of the highlights of my year. At the beginning, they were wriggly little bodies who couldn’t stand still for more than three seconds. Over time, however, they learned to (mostly!) stand and wait for parade, march in with purpose, and fall out beautifully.
Eventually, the moment that sealed it for me came on our final night. The Anchors were dismissed alongside the Juniors. While the older boys sprinted off to the hall, my little guys fell out perfectly—calm, orderly, and proud. My helper and I could’ve burst with joy.
Budding Leadership
One of the biggest surprises has been how much these young boys love leadership. Whether it’s being the “marker” on parade, calling out commands in Ship to Shore, or leading Follow the Leader, they take their responsibilities seriously. Furthermore, it’s never too early to nurture leadership—and next year, they’ll be the ones guiding the new Anchors who join us.
Finding What Works when leading Anchors
It took time to discover what they enjoy most. Despite their maturity, they still love craft, they really love food, and they get excited about word searches, spot‑the‑difference sheets, and anything that involves running. Consequently, each week I try to mix things up, resisting the temptation to fall back on the easy favourites (even though food is always a winner).
The Power of Focused Attention
A group of young boys can be wonderfully silly—and wonderfully chaotic. However, I learned quickly that one‑on‑one time changes everything. When we practiced kicking, throwing, or hitting balls individually, the silliness melted away. They focused, listened, and grew in confidence. Sometimes the best ministry happens in the quiet, simple moments.
As a result, these moments became some of the most meaningful lessons I learned while leading Anchors, shaping both the boys and me in ways I didn’t expect.
Reinforcing What Parents Teach
I’ve been blown away by their biblical knowledge. During devotions, they often knew the stories inside out. At first, I wondered if I was telling them anything new—but then I realised the beauty of reinforcing what their parents are faithfully teaching at home. Hearing them retell stories and dig deeper into Scripture has been a joy.
Joining the Juniors
Each week we join the Juniors for games. Sometimes, the activities stretch the Anchors’ abilities, so we adapt where needed. In addition, I’ve been so impressed by the Juniors who step up to help—explaining rules, guiding the younger boys, and showing genuine care. It’s leadership development happening naturally, beautifully, and without prompting.
Leading Anchors with the BB Object in Mind
“The advancement of Christ’s Kingdom among Boys, and the promotion of habits of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline, Self‑Respect, and all that tends towards a true Christian Manliness.”
Every week, I plan with the BB Object in mind. Whether our Companies are large or small, whether our boys are five or fifteen, each one is growing toward Christian manliness and influencing their world—now and into the future.
Are You Being Called To Be A Leader?
Many of our Companies are in great need of Leaders and Helpers. Very quickly, I learned that one person cannot manage six five‑year‑olds alone! In Term 2, a 16‑year‑old girl joined me, and she has been an incredible blessing.
A BB Leader completes Initial Leader Training and becomes an officer—joining the wider network of registered BBQLD leaders. It’s a small investment of time for a significant impact.
A BB Helper simply comes along and supports in whatever way they feel comfortable—being a presence, teaching a skill, leading a game, sharing a devotion, or joining in the activities.
Companies cannot grow without leaders.
And every week, our BB Prayer Team prays for leaders—those currently serving and those yet to step forward.
We are praying for you.
This year has reminded me that God often grows us most when we step into places we never imagined ourselves serving. The lessons I’ve learned from leading Anchors have stretched me, blessed me, and shown me again that every boy matters and every leader makes a difference. As we look toward a new year, may we each be open to God’s call—whether to lead, to help, or to pray faithfully for those who do.