Podcasts about family ministries

In this episode I sit down with Andrew and Kara Root to talk about their new book, A Pilgrimage Into Letting Go. Written out of their journey walking St. Cuthbert's Way with their children, the book reflects on parenting, pastoring, and the hard but necessary work of releasing control. Together we explore why modern life pushes us to manage every detail, how uncontrollability can actually be a gift, and what it looks like to see parenting as a pilgrimage. Along the way, we talk about prayer as listening, the difference between being a tourist and a pilgrim, and the ways God encounters us when we surrender to presence. This is a conversation about trust, family, and faith that invites us to walk with open hands and open hearts.Andrew Root is the Carrie Olson Baalson Professor of Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary, USA. He writes and researches in areas of theology, ministry, culture and younger generations.  His most recent books are Evangelism in an Age of Despair (Baker, 2025), The Church in an Age of Secular Mysticisms (Baker, 2023), Churches and the Crisis of Decline (Baker, 2022), The Congregation in a Secular Age (Baker, 2021), and The Pastor in a Secular Age: Ministry to People Who No Longer Need God (Baker, 2019). In addition, he serves as theologian in residence for Youthfront. Rev. Kara K. Root is the author of The Deepest Belonging (2021) and Receiving This Life: (2023). ​Pastor of Lake Nokomis Presbyterian Church in Minneapolis, MN, a Christian community that shapes its life around worship, hospitality and Sabbath rest, she is a trained Spiritual Director and Certified Educator in the PCUSA.  Being mom to two intriguing teenagers (and a sweet dog), and wife and proofreader to a wily theologian, spices up her vocational calling and keeps her fully immersed in life. She has written for Sparkhouse, Working Preacher, Christian Century, Christianity Today, Faith and Leadership, Patheos and more. Kara leads retreats and workshops on sabbath rest, prayer practices, and church leadership and transformation.  ​​Andy & Kara's Book:A Pilgrimage Into Letting GoKara's Recommendation:How to Inhabit TimeSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Kara Hackert, Director of Children & Family Ministries

Life as a parent (and just as a human) can hand you plenty of reasons to grow bitter — disappointments, unanswered prayers, hurt from others. In this conversation, Adam, Chelsea, and Cassie talk honestly about how bitterness creeps in and why it's so dangerous for our hearts, families, and churches. They share personal stories, unpack what the Bible says about forgiving like Jesus, and offer practical ways to choose joy over resentment. If you've been carrying around some spiritual “junk mail” marked bitterness, this episode is an invitation to throw it out for good.Resources Mentioned:Good News for Parents by Adam GriffinHebrews 12:15Ephesians 4:31–32Colossians 3:13Matthew 18:21–35 Follow Us:Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteEditing and support by The Good Podcast Co.

Bret Taylor & Sheryl O'Bryan share about the care and support they provide for missionary kids as they return to their passport country.ABOUT BRET TAYLOR & SHERYL O'BRYAN:Bret Taylor is the President of Interaction International and creator of the Adaptable TCK Model. He's spent over 25 years serving Third Culture Kids, starting as a chaplain for MKs in Kenya and later leading the Youth and Family Ministry at JAARS. He chairs the MK Caregiver's Summit and helps lead the International TCK Conference. Bret lives in North Carolina with his wife Mindy, has visited 33 countries, and swears by In-N-Out burgers.Sheryl O'Bryan grew up in New York (state) and always wanted to be a TCK. Her parents were uncooperative in this venture. She graduated from Wheaton College with a double major of French and History (but not necessarily French history). In 2019 she completed her M.A. in human services counseling with a focus on life coaching from Liberty University.Sheryl began working with TCKs in 1988 at the International Christian Academy in Cote d'Ivoire; A civil war forced her to evacuate in 2002. She then moved to her sending organization's home office and served as the TCK care and education specialist until 2018. Later that year, she joined Interaction International where she serves in a variety of capacities. Her favorite moments are always when she works directly with TCKs.ADDITIONAL RESOURCE:• Interaction International• Among Worlds Blog• Transit Lounge• TCK Connect• MuKappa• Faith on the Move: A Devotional for MK/TCK Teens in Cross-Cultural Transition- 30 day devotional by Interaction International• The Grief Tower: A Practical Guide to Processing Grief with Third Culture Kids by Lauren Wells• Swirly by Sara Saunders and Matthew Pierce

Gratitude is not just a feeling—it's a habit we can intentionally build. In a world filled with stress, burnout, anxiety, loss, and constant uncertainty, gratitude reshapes our mindset, strengthens relationships, and grounds us in faith. Drawing from Paul's letters, the pastor reminds us that even in chaos and suffering, gratitude is an act of worship that brings resilience, peace, and hope beyond circumstances.Stay connected with Hope Church Memphis:Website • HopeChurchMemphis.comInstagram • @Hope4MemphisTikTok • @Hope4MemphisFacebook • @Hope4MemphisPrayer • HopeChurchMemphis.com/PrayerGiving • HopeChurchMemphis.com/Give

The Stirring meets at 5:30 pm on Sundays.—Stay connected with The Stirring at Hope Church in Memphis, TN:Website • HopeChurchMemphis.comInstagram • @TheStirringAtHopeTikTok • @Hope4MemphisFacebook • @TheStirringAtHopePrayer • HopeChurchMemphis.com/PraayerGiving • HopeChurchMemphis.com/Give

Chris Skoglund (Pastor of Recreation & Family Ministries), "Do You Recognize Him?.", Baptism Video, Children's Time, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).       1.  After a long time, in the third year, the word of the Lord came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain on the land.”  2.  So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab.       Now the famine was severe in Samaria,  3.  and Ahab had summoned Obadiah, his palace administrator. (Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord.   4.  While Jezebel was killing off the Lord's prophets, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water.)  5.  Ahab had said to Obadiah, “Go through the land to all the springs and valleys. Maybe we can find some grass to keep the horses and mules alive..”        7.  As Obadiah was walking along, Elijah met him. Obadiah recognized him, bowed down to the ground, and said, “Is it really you, my lord Elijah?”       8.  “Yes,” he replied. “Go tell your master, ‘Elijah is here.'”       9.  “What have I done wrong,” asked Obadiah, “that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to be put to death?  10.  As surely as the Lord your God lives, there is not a nation or kingdom where my master has not sent someone to look for you. And whenever a nation or kingdom claimed you were not there, he made them swear they could not find you.   11. But now you tell me to go to my master and say, ‘Elijah is here.'      15.  Elijah said, “As the Lord Almighty lives, whom I serve, I will surely present myself to Ahab today.”      16.  So Obadiah went to meet Ahab and told him, and Ahab went to meet Elijah.  17.  When he saw Elijah, he said to him, “Is that you, you troubler of Israel?”       18.  “I have not made trouble for Israel,” Elijah replied. “But you and your father's family have."      30.  Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come here to me.” They came to him, and he repaired the altar of the Lord, which had been torn down.  31.  Elijah took twelve stones, one for each of the tribes descended from Jacob, to whom the word of the Lord had come, saying, “Your name shall be Israel.”  32.  With the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord, and he dug a trench around it large enough to hold two seahs of seed.  33.  He arranged the wood, cut the bull into pieces and laid it on the wood. Then he said to them, “Fill four large jars with water and pour it on the offering and on the wood.”       34.  “Do it again,” he said, and they did it again.       “Do it a third time,” he ordered, and they did it the third time.  35.  The water ran down around the altar and even filled the trench.       36.  At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. 37.  Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”       38.  Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.       39.  When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!”       (I Kings 18:1-5; 7-11; 15-18; 30-39 NIV)

Chris Skoglund (Pastor of Recreation & Family Ministries), "Do You Recognize Him?., Baptism, Children's Time, Choir, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service).       1.  After a long time, in the third year, the word of the Lord came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain on the land.”  2.  So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab.       Now the famine was severe in Samaria,  3.  and Ahab had summoned Obadiah, his palace administrator. (Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord.   4.  While Jezebel was killing off the Lord's prophets, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water.)  5.  Ahab had said to Obadiah, “Go through the land to all the springs and valleys. Maybe we can find some grass to keep the horses and mules alive.”        7.  As Obadiah was walking along, Elijah met him. Obadiah recognized him, bowed down to the ground, and said, “Is it really you, my lord Elijah?”       8.  “Yes,” he replied. “Go tell your master, ‘Elijah is here.'”       9.  “What have I done wrong,” asked Obadiah, “that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to be put to death?  10.  As surely as the Lord your God lives, there is not a nation or kingdom where my master has not sent someone to look for you. And whenever a nation or kingdom claimed you were not there, he made them swear they could not find you.   11. But now you tell me to go to my master and say, ‘Elijah is here.'      15.  Elijah said, “As the Lord Almighty lives, whom I serve, I will surely present myself to Ahab today.”      16.  So Obadiah went to meet Ahab and told him, and Ahab went to meet Elijah.  17.  When he saw Elijah, he said to him, “Is that you, you troubler of Israel?”       18.  “I have not made trouble for Israel,” Elijah replied. “But you and your father's family have.."      30.  Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come here to me.” They came to him, and he repaired the altar of the Lord, which had been torn down.  31.  Elijah took twelve stones, one for each of the tribes descended from Jacob, to whom the word of the Lord had come, saying, “Your name shall be Israel.”  32.  With the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord, and he dug a trench around it large enough to hold two seahs of seed.  33.  He arranged the wood, cut the bull into pieces and laid it on the wood. Then he said to them, “Fill four large jars with water and pour it on the offering and on the wood.”       34.  “Do it again,” he said, and they did it again.       “Do it a third time,” he ordered, and they did it the third time.  35.  The water ran down around the altar and even filled the trench.       36.  At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. 37.  Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”       38.  Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.       39.  When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!”       (I Kings 18:1-5; 7-11; 15-18; 30-39 NIV)

Chris Skoglund (Pastor of Recreation & Family Ministries), "Do You Recognize Him?.       1.  After a long time, in the third year, the word of the Lord came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain on the land.”  2.  So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab.       Now the famine was severe in Samaria,  3.  and Ahab had summoned Obadiah, his palace administrator. (Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord.   4.  While Jezebel was killing off the Lord's prophets, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water.)  5.  Ahab had said to Obadiah, “Go through the land to all the springs and valleys. Maybe we can find some grass to keep the horses and mules alive so we will not have to kill any of our animals.”        7.  As Obadiah was walking along, Elijah met him. Obadiah recognized him, bowed down to the ground, and said, “Is it really you, my lord Elijah?”       8.  “Yes,” he replied. “Go tell your master, ‘Elijah is here.'”       9.  “What have I done wrong,” asked Obadiah, “that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to be put to death?  10.  As surely as the Lord your God lives, there is not a nation or kingdom where my master has not sent someone to look for you. And whenever a nation or kingdom claimed you were not there, he made them swear they could not find you.   11. But now you tell me to go to my master and say, ‘Elijah is here.'      15.  Elijah said, “As the Lord Almighty lives, whom I serve, I will surely present myself to Ahab today.”      16.  So Obadiah went to meet Ahab and told him, and Ahab went to meet Elijah.  17.  When he saw Elijah, he said to him, “Is that you, you troubler of Israel?”       18.  “I have not made trouble for Israel,” Elijah replied. “But you and your father's family have. You have abandoned the Lord's commands and have followed the Baals.      30.  Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come here to me.” They came to him, and he repaired the altar of the Lord, which had been torn down.  31.  Elijah took twelve stones, one for each of the tribes descended from Jacob, to whom the word of the Lord had come, saying, “Your name shall be Israel.”  32.  With the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord, and he dug a trench around it large enough to hold two seahs of seed.  33.  He arranged the wood, cut the bull into pieces and laid it on the wood. Then he said to them, “Fill four large jars with water and pour it on the offering and on the wood.”       34.  “Do it again,” he said, and they did it again.       “Do it a third time,” he ordered, and they did it the third time.  35.  The water ran down around the altar and even filled the trench.       36.  At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. 37.  Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”       38.  Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.       39.  When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!”       (I Kings 18:1-5; 7-11; 15-18; 30-39 NIV)

Chris Skoglund (Pastor of Recreation & Family Ministries), "Do You Recognize Him?.", Baptism Video, Children's Time, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).       1.  After a long time, in the third year, the word of the Lord came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain on the land.”  2.  So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab.       Now the famine was severe in Samaria,  3.  and Ahab had summoned Obadiah, his palace administrator. (Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord.   4.  While Jezebel was killing off the Lord's prophets, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water.)  5.  Ahab had said to Obadiah, “Go through the land to all the springs and valleys. Maybe we can find some grass to keep the horses and mules alive..”        7.  As Obadiah was walking along, Elijah met him. Obadiah recognized him, bowed down to the ground, and said, “Is it really you, my lord Elijah?”       8.  “Yes,” he replied. “Go tell your master, ‘Elijah is here.'”       9.  “What have I done wrong,” asked Obadiah, “that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to be put to death?  10.  As surely as the Lord your God lives, there is not a nation or kingdom where my master has not sent someone to look for you. And whenever a nation or kingdom claimed you were not there, he made them swear they could not find you.   11. But now you tell me to go to my master and say, ‘Elijah is here.'      15.  Elijah said, “As the Lord Almighty lives, whom I serve, I will surely present myself to Ahab today.”      16.  So Obadiah went to meet Ahab and told him, and Ahab went to meet Elijah.  17.  When he saw Elijah, he said to him, “Is that you, you troubler of Israel?”       18.  “I have not made trouble for Israel,” Elijah replied. “But you and your father's family have."      30.  Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come here to me.” They came to him, and he repaired the altar of the Lord, which had been torn down.  31.  Elijah took twelve stones, one for each of the tribes descended from Jacob, to whom the word of the Lord had come, saying, “Your name shall be Israel.”  32.  With the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord, and he dug a trench around it large enough to hold two seahs of seed.  33.  He arranged the wood, cut the bull into pieces and laid it on the wood. Then he said to them, “Fill four large jars with water and pour it on the offering and on the wood.”       34.  “Do it again,” he said, and they did it again.       “Do it a third time,” he ordered, and they did it the third time.  35.  The water ran down around the altar and even filled the trench.       36.  At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. 37.  Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”       38.  Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.       39.  When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!”       (I Kings 18:1-5; 7-11; 15-18; 30-39 NIV)

Chris Skoglund (Pastor of Recreation & Family Ministries), "Do You Recognize Him?., Baptism, Children's Time, Choir, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service).       1.  After a long time, in the third year, the word of the Lord came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain on the land.”  2.  So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab.       Now the famine was severe in Samaria,  3.  and Ahab had summoned Obadiah, his palace administrator. (Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord.   4.  While Jezebel was killing off the Lord's prophets, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water.)  5.  Ahab had said to Obadiah, “Go through the land to all the springs and valleys. Maybe we can find some grass to keep the horses and mules alive.”        7.  As Obadiah was walking along, Elijah met him. Obadiah recognized him, bowed down to the ground, and said, “Is it really you, my lord Elijah?”       8.  “Yes,” he replied. “Go tell your master, ‘Elijah is here.'”       9.  “What have I done wrong,” asked Obadiah, “that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to be put to death?  10.  As surely as the Lord your God lives, there is not a nation or kingdom where my master has not sent someone to look for you. And whenever a nation or kingdom claimed you were not there, he made them swear they could not find you.   11. But now you tell me to go to my master and say, ‘Elijah is here.'      15.  Elijah said, “As the Lord Almighty lives, whom I serve, I will surely present myself to Ahab today.”      16.  So Obadiah went to meet Ahab and told him, and Ahab went to meet Elijah.  17.  When he saw Elijah, he said to him, “Is that you, you troubler of Israel?”       18.  “I have not made trouble for Israel,” Elijah replied. “But you and your father's family have.."      30.  Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come here to me.” They came to him, and he repaired the altar of the Lord, which had been torn down.  31.  Elijah took twelve stones, one for each of the tribes descended from Jacob, to whom the word of the Lord had come, saying, “Your name shall be Israel.”  32.  With the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord, and he dug a trench around it large enough to hold two seahs of seed.  33.  He arranged the wood, cut the bull into pieces and laid it on the wood. Then he said to them, “Fill four large jars with water and pour it on the offering and on the wood.”       34.  “Do it again,” he said, and they did it again.       “Do it a third time,” he ordered, and they did it the third time.  35.  The water ran down around the altar and even filled the trench.       36.  At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. 37.  Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”       38.  Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.       39.  When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!”       (I Kings 18:1-5; 7-11; 15-18; 30-39 NIV)

Chris Skoglund (Pastor of Recreation & Family Ministries), "Do You Recognize Him?.       1.  After a long time, in the third year, the word of the Lord came to Elijah: “Go and present yourself to Ahab, and I will send rain on the land.”  2.  So Elijah went to present himself to Ahab.       Now the famine was severe in Samaria,  3.  and Ahab had summoned Obadiah, his palace administrator. (Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord.   4.  While Jezebel was killing off the Lord's prophets, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water.)  5.  Ahab had said to Obadiah, “Go through the land to all the springs and valleys. Maybe we can find some grass to keep the horses and mules alive so we will not have to kill any of our animals.”        7.  As Obadiah was walking along, Elijah met him. Obadiah recognized him, bowed down to the ground, and said, “Is it really you, my lord Elijah?”       8.  “Yes,” he replied. “Go tell your master, ‘Elijah is here.'”       9.  “What have I done wrong,” asked Obadiah, “that you are handing your servant over to Ahab to be put to death?  10.  As surely as the Lord your God lives, there is not a nation or kingdom where my master has not sent someone to look for you. And whenever a nation or kingdom claimed you were not there, he made them swear they could not find you.   11. But now you tell me to go to my master and say, ‘Elijah is here.'      15.  Elijah said, “As the Lord Almighty lives, whom I serve, I will surely present myself to Ahab today.”      16.  So Obadiah went to meet Ahab and told him, and Ahab went to meet Elijah.  17.  When he saw Elijah, he said to him, “Is that you, you troubler of Israel?”       18.  “I have not made trouble for Israel,” Elijah replied. “But you and your father's family have. You have abandoned the Lord's commands and have followed the Baals.      30.  Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come here to me.” They came to him, and he repaired the altar of the Lord, which had been torn down.  31.  Elijah took twelve stones, one for each of the tribes descended from Jacob, to whom the word of the Lord had come, saying, “Your name shall be Israel.”  32.  With the stones he built an altar in the name of the Lord, and he dug a trench around it large enough to hold two seahs of seed.  33.  He arranged the wood, cut the bull into pieces and laid it on the wood. Then he said to them, “Fill four large jars with water and pour it on the offering and on the wood.”       34.  “Do it again,” he said, and they did it again.       “Do it a third time,” he ordered, and they did it the third time.  35.  The water ran down around the altar and even filled the trench.       36.  At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. 37.  Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”       38.  Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench.       39.  When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!”       (I Kings 18:1-5; 7-11; 15-18; 30-39 NIV)

Is your heart burdened by the age-and-stage model in many churches that separates families instead of uniting them? In this episode of the Foundation Worldview Podcast, Elizabeth Urbanowicz shares five biblical and practical steps for approaching church leaders with humility, wisdom, and a willingness to be part of the change. Whether you're longing for a family ministry or simply desire to see more life-on-life discipleship in your church, this episode equips you with principles that honor church leadership and foster true community.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme of “Back to School” with some of the professors and staff from the Moody Bible Institute (MBI). First, we had Dr. Elizabeth Smith join us to talk about her Social Work Practices course and new 3-year online degree programs available at Moody. Dr. Smith is the Associate Dean of Academics for Moody Online and the Program Head of the Children and Family Ministry. She is also a Professor for Moody Online and on the Chicago campus. We then had Allie Marie Smith join us to discuss the effects of social media on our mental health. Allie is an award-winning author, speaker, entrepreneur, life coach, and podcast host. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a non-profit that empowers girls and women to know their God-given value, identity, and purpose through flourishing lives and vibrant mental health. She is also the author of “Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, Reclaim Your Joy.” We then discussed how, when we renew our minds, we will be able to discern the Will of God, and this is affirmed in Romans 12:1-2. Then we had Dr. William Washington join us to discuss the happenings at the MBI Chicago Campus. Dr. Washington is Vice President of Student Life and Enrollment at MBI. He oversees the departments of Academic Records, Admissions, Counseling, Residence Life, Health Service, Student Activities & Orientation, Food Service, Central Post Office, and Student Life. You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Discerning the Will of God [10:35-17:58 ] Dr. Elizabeth Smith Interview (Moody Online) [18:07- 29:55] Allie Marie Smith Interview (Mental Health) [37:12- 44:18] Dr. William Washington Interview (Moody Chicago) [44:28-51:34 ] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme of “Back to School” with some of the professors and staff from the Moody Bible Institute (MBI). First, we had Dr. Elizabeth Smith join us to talk about her Social Work Practices course and new 3-year online degree programs available at Moody. Dr. Smith is the Associate Dean of Academics for Moody Online and the Program Head of the Children and Family Ministry. She is also a Professor for Moody Online and on the Chicago campus. We then had Allie Marie Smith join us to discuss the effects of social media on our mental health. Allie is an award-winning author, speaker, entrepreneur, life coach, and podcast host. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a non-profit that empowers girls and women to know their God-given value, identity, and purpose through flourishing lives and vibrant mental health. She is also the author of “Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, Reclaim Your Joy.” We then discussed how, when we renew our minds, we will be able to discern the Will of God, and this is affirmed in Romans 12:1-2. Then we had Dr. William Washington join us to discuss the happenings at the MBI Chicago Campus. Dr. Washington is Vice President of Student Life and Enrollment at MBI. He oversees the departments of Academic Records, Admissions, Counseling, Residence Life, Health Service, Student Activities & Orientation, Food Service, Central Post Office, and Student Life. You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Discerning the Will of God [10:35-17:58 ] Dr. Elizabeth Smith Interview (Moody Online) [18:07- 29:55] Allie Marie Smith Interview (Mental Health) [37:12- 44:18] Dr. William Washington Interview (Moody Chicago) [44:28-51:34 ] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme of “Back to School” with some of the professors and staff from the Moody Bible Institute (MBI). First, we had Dr. Elizabeth Smith join us to talk about her Social Work Practices course and new 3-year online degree programs available at Moody. Dr. Smith is the Associate Dean of Academics for Moody Online and the Program Head of the Children and Family Ministry. She is also a Professor for Moody Online and on the Chicago campus. We then had Allie Marie Smith join us to discuss the effects of social media on our mental health. Allie is an award-winning author, speaker, entrepreneur, life coach, and podcast host. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a non-profit that empowers girls and women to know their God-given value, identity, and purpose through flourishing lives and vibrant mental health. She is also the author of “Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, Reclaim Your Joy.” We then discussed how, when we renew our minds, we will be able to discern the Will of God, and this is affirmed in Romans 12:1-2. Then we had Dr. William Washington join us to discuss the happenings at the MBI Chicago Campus. Dr. Washington is Vice President of Student Life and Enrollment at MBI. He oversees the departments of Academic Records, Admissions, Counseling, Residence Life, Health Service, Student Activities & Orientation, Food Service, Central Post Office, and Student Life. You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Discerning the Will of God [10:35-17:58 ] Dr. Elizabeth Smith Interview (Moody Online) [18:07- 29:55] Allie Marie Smith Interview (Mental Health) [37:12- 44:18] Dr. William Washington Interview (Moody Chicago) [44:28-51:34 ] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme of “Back to School” with some of the professors and staff from the Moody Bible Institute (MBI). First, we had Dr. Elizabeth Smith join us to talk about her Social Work Practices course and new 3-year online degree programs available at Moody. Dr. Smith is the Associate Dean of Academics for Moody Online and the Program Head of the Children and Family Ministry. She is also a Professor for Moody Online and on the Chicago campus. We then had Allie Marie Smith join us to discuss the effects of social media on our mental health. Allie is an award-winning author, speaker, entrepreneur, life coach, and podcast host. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a non-profit that empowers girls and women to know their God-given value, identity, and purpose through flourishing lives and vibrant mental health. She is also the author of “Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, Reclaim Your Joy.” We then discussed how, when we renew our minds, we will be able to discern the Will of God, and this is affirmed in Romans 12:1-2. Then we had Dr. William Washington join us to discuss the happenings at the MBI Chicago Campus. Dr. Washington is Vice President of Student Life and Enrollment at MBI. He oversees the departments of Academic Records, Admissions, Counseling, Residence Life, Health Service, Student Activities & Orientation, Food Service, Central Post Office, and Student Life. You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Discerning the Will of God [10:35-17:58 ] Dr. Elizabeth Smith Interview (Moody Online) [18:07- 29:55] Allie Marie Smith Interview (Mental Health) [37:12- 44:18] Dr. William Washington Interview (Moody Chicago) [44:28-51:34 ] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme of “Back to School” with some of the professors and staff from the Moody Bible Institute (MBI). First, we had Dr. Elizabeth Smith join us to talk about her Social Work Practices course and new 3-year online degree programs available at Moody. Dr. Smith is the Associate Dean of Academics for Moody Online and the Program Head of the Children and Family Ministry. She is also a Professor for Moody Online and on the Chicago campus. We then had Allie Marie Smith join us to discuss the effects of social media on our mental health. Allie is an award-winning author, speaker, entrepreneur, life coach, and podcast host. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a non-profit that empowers girls and women to know their God-given value, identity, and purpose through flourishing lives and vibrant mental health. She is also the author of “Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, Reclaim Your Joy.” We then discussed how, when we renew our minds, we will be able to discern the Will of God, and this is affirmed in Romans 12:1-2. Then we had Dr. William Washington join us to discuss the happenings at the MBI Chicago Campus. Dr. Washington is Vice President of Student Life and Enrollment at MBI. He oversees the departments of Academic Records, Admissions, Counseling, Residence Life, Health Service, Student Activities & Orientation, Food Service, Central Post Office, and Student Life. You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Discerning the Will of God [10:35-17:58 ] Dr. Elizabeth Smith Interview (Moody Online) [18:07- 29:55] Allie Marie Smith Interview (Mental Health) [37:12- 44:18] Dr. William Washington Interview (Moody Chicago) [44:28-51:34 ] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme of “Back to School” with some of the professors and staff from the Moody Bible Institute (MBI). First, we had Dr. Elizabeth Smith join us to talk about her Social Work Practices course and new 3-year online degree programs available at Moody. Dr. Smith is the Associate Dean of Academics for Moody Online and the Program Head of the Children and Family Ministry. She is also a Professor for Moody Online and on the Chicago campus. We then had Allie Marie Smith join us to discuss the effects of social media on our mental health. Allie is an award-winning author, speaker, entrepreneur, life coach, and podcast host. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a non-profit that empowers girls and women to know their God-given value, identity, and purpose through flourishing lives and vibrant mental health. She is also the author of “Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, Reclaim Your Joy.” We then discussed how, when we renew our minds, we will be able to discern the Will of God, and this is affirmed in Romans 12:1-2. Then we had Dr. William Washington join us to discuss the happenings at the MBI Chicago Campus. Dr. Washington is Vice President of Student Life and Enrollment at MBI. He oversees the departments of Academic Records, Admissions, Counseling, Residence Life, Health Service, Student Activities & Orientation, Food Service, Central Post Office, and Student Life. You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Discerning the Will of God [10:35-17:58 ] Dr. Elizabeth Smith Interview (Moody Online) [18:07- 29:55] Allie Marie Smith Interview (Mental Health) [37:12- 44:18] Dr. William Washington Interview (Moody Chicago) [44:28-51:34 ] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we continued our weekly theme of “Back to School” with some of the professors and staff from the Moody Bible Institute (MBI). First, we had Dr. Elizabeth Smith join us to talk about her Social Work Practices course and new 3-year online degree programs available at Moody. Dr. Smith is the Associate Dean of Academics for Moody Online and the Program Head of the Children and Family Ministry. She is also a Professor for Moody Online and on the Chicago campus. We then had Allie Marie Smith join us to discuss the effects of social media on our mental health. Allie is an award-winning author, speaker, entrepreneur, life coach, and podcast host. She is also the founder and CEO of Wonderfully Made, a non-profit that empowers girls and women to know their God-given value, identity, and purpose through flourishing lives and vibrant mental health. She is also the author of “Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, Reclaim Your Joy.” We then discussed how, when we renew our minds, we will be able to discern the Will of God, and this is affirmed in Romans 12:1-2. Then we had Dr. William Washington join us to discuss the happenings at the MBI Chicago Campus. Dr. Washington is Vice President of Student Life and Enrollment at MBI. He oversees the departments of Academic Records, Admissions, Counseling, Residence Life, Health Service, Student Activities & Orientation, Food Service, Central Post Office, and Student Life. You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Discerning the Will of God [10:35-17:58 ] Dr. Elizabeth Smith Interview (Moody Online) [18:07- 29:55] Allie Marie Smith Interview (Mental Health) [37:12- 44:18] Dr. William Washington Interview (Moody Chicago) [44:28-51:34 ] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hear how one Minnesota church partners with Connected Families for family ministry ideas that truly equip and support their families. In this episode about partnerships, Stacy Bellward (host) and Cindy Wilson (Connected Families Ministry Partnership & Research Program Manager) are joined by special guests Justie Vavra and Megan Thorp to discover how the transformative Connected […]

Today on Rise and Shine: Your support sends the gospel to every corner of Australia through broadcast, online and print media: https://www.vision.org.au/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world our kids are growing up in is changing at lightning speed, and the church must be ready. In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana Magruder and her guests take us into a forward-looking conversation about the next generation, Generation Beta, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with discipling their families. As we reflect on the shifting landscape of culture, technology, and faith, we are reminded that our calling as ministry leaders has never been more important.Shelly Melia serves as the Program Director for the Master of Arts in Children's Ministry and the Master of Arts in Family Ministry at Dallas Baptist University. Prior to coming to DBU she served for over 25 years in children's and family ministry in Oklahoma, Florida, and Texas. Dr. Melia is also a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in grief and resilience. She holds an undergraduate degree from Oklahoma Baptist University, two master's degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Philosophy from B.H. Carroll Theological Institute.This discussion explores how emerging technologies, including AI, are influencing parenting styles and reshaping family life. Special guest Shelly Melia offers deep insights into the challenges Gen Z faces in discerning truth in a digital world saturated with misinformation, emphasizing the church's vital role in pointing them toward God's Word as the source of absolute truth. This episode also highlights how discipleship strategies must adapt to focus on authentic relationships, meaningful rituals, and creating space for honest questions and doubts. With intergenerational collaboration, curiosity, and intentionality, ministry leaders can provide the supportive environment children and youth need to grow strong in their faith. If you found this conversation helpful, we'd love for you to rate, review, and share this episode so more ministry leaders can join the conversation. Together, let's continue building ministries that not only meet the needs of today but also shape the faith of tomorrow.SHOW LINKS: Connect with Dr. Shelly MeliaJoin us for ETCH 2025. Sign up and get the details HERE. ETCH Conference Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Alana Rodriguez, Director of Family Ministry What could family ministry look like? With the many changes and shifts, how do we center joy and taking care of each other? Music: First U Youth Kokiak Hopkins, Puck Magnusson, and Shane Magnusson with guest youth musicians Owen Mease, Josh Trujillo, and Silas Wilber.

In this week's episode, we are joined by Linc Taylor. With 32 years of ministry experience, a D.Min. in Leadership and Family Ministry, and current pastor of Next-Gen and Families at Brentwood Baptist in Brentwood, Tennessee, Linc shares his passion for encouraging families within the church and discusses principles from his new book, The Mystery of the Ordinary: 8 Statements Your Kids Need to Hear...And Why.Throughout the episode, Linc discusses the importance of reevaluating and measuring your church's ministry methods and programming for greater effectiveness. He shares that leaders should focus not only on traditional metrics such as budget and attendance, but also on life change and transformation. He encourages churches to equip all members, from children to parents, in having regular and ongoing gospel conversations to be effective in discipleship.Register your team now for D6 Conference 2026: https://d6family.com/d6conference/Get your copy of Linc Taylor's latest book, “The Mystery of the Ordinary: 8 Statements Your Kids Need to Hear…And Why” here: ⁠https://go.d6family.com/mysteryoftheordinary⁠Equip families in your church by creating a D6 HomePoint Church Resource Center here: https://www.d6homepoint.com/

In this workshop from the 2024 Rooted Conference in Dallas, Jimmy Kim explores the heart of family ministry—what it is, why it matters, and how churches can cultivate it in their own context. With over 20 years of experience across youth, college, and family ministry, Jimmy offers a practical and gospel-centered approach for churches of all sizes and backgrounds.Jimmy serves as the Executive Director of Family Transformation at Perimeter Church near Atlanta, GA. He's a husband to Shin and dad to two soccer-loving kids. His ministry journey spans both immigrant and multiethnic church contexts, with academic roots at the University of Maryland, Washington Bible College, Atlanta Christian College, and Reformed Theological Seminary.Rooted Resources:How to Start a Family Ministry in Your Church by Andy CornettResources for Family Ministry (Rooted Roundup)Perspectives on Family Ministry: 3 Views by Timothy Paul JonesFollow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates Register for Rooted 2025 Conference in Chicago Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates andSubscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts

Send us a textFor queer youth, belonging isn't a luxury, it's a lifeline. In a world that too often tells them they don't fit, affirming spaces can be the difference between surviving and thriving. The power of belonging becomes both healing and revolutionary. Today In the Den,we're diving into this topic, exploring the life-saving power of queer-led youth spaces that help foster that sense of belonging. Sara talks with two incredible guests who are working to create just such a space, the Rev. Dr. John Leedy, the Executive Director of Kindom Community, and Andy Hackett, Program Director. Special Guest: Rev. Dr. John LeedyJohn Leedy (he/him) is a Presbyterian pastor and has a bi-vocational calling, serving as both the Executive Director of kin•dom community and the Associate Pastor of Hope Church in Austin, TX. He holds a B.A. in Youth & Family Ministry from Abilene Christian University, an MDiv. from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in Christian Formation and Liturgical Theology also from APTS. He is a Benedictine Oblate of St. Meinrad Archabbey, has a long history of camp & conference work, and lives in Austin with his wife and pastoral colleague, Rev. Dr. Krystal Leedy, along with their two daughters. John came on staff as a camp counselor at the first ever kin•dom camp in Texas and knew immediately that this work would not only change his life, but would change the lives of countless other LGBTQIA+ young people who are in need of brave spaces marked by love, inclusion, care, and celebration. Special Guest: Andy HackettAndy Hackett (he/him) holds a BS in Child Development with a minor in Political Science from Texas Woman's University. He is also certified Lifeguard/First Aid/CPR instructor and Level 1 challenge course practitioner. He lives and works full time at a Camp and Conference Center in East Texas with his dog, Baxter. Andy grew up attending a specialty camp for children with celiac disease, and after coming out as transgender, he thought "We need a camp like this for LGBTQ+ kids"- and kin•dom camp was born! He develops programs and activities that happen at camp, helps us find and train the amazing individuals that join our summer staff, and is the face behind emails reminding you to register for camp! Links from the Show: Kindom Camp: https://kindomcommunity.org/campQueer Camp Directory: https://directory.queercampfair.com/Gluten-Free Cookbook: https://theloopywhisk.com/ Join Mama Dragons today: www.mamadragons.comIn the Den is made possible by generous donors like you. Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today at www.mamadragons.org.  Support the showConnect with Mama Dragons:WebsiteInstagramFacebookDonate to this podcast

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, hosted by Monica Healer, the focus is on how church and weekday ministries can partner effectively to reach young families in the community. Monica is joined by Hope and Jason Huddleston from First Baptist Church in Elgin, Texas. Jason, the senior pastor, and Hope, the preschool and weekday director, share their journey of revitalizing a declining church by making families the central focus. They discuss practical strategies, including integrating weekday programs with church activities, breaking down generational walls, and fostering a church culture that values children. The episode emphasizes the importance of being united in ministry to make a lasting impact and advance the kingdom of God. Key insights include the value of high-fiving children, engaging community outreach programs like Easter egg hunts, and ensuring all church ministries align with the overarching mission of family transformation.   00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:41 Meet Hope and Jason Huddleston 01:55 Transforming Church Culture 06:08 Focusing on Family Ministry 21:34 Embracing Jesus' Mission for Children 21:59 Practical Benefits of Ministry Collaboration 23:58 Transforming Church Culture for Families 36:58 Reimagining Childhood in Church PAVE podcast - The Power of Story An ECCN Resource to help connect weekday families to the church community: Nurturing Faith:Weekday Preschool as a Bridge for Your Families

Message from Garry Dorris on July 27, 2025

So Andy and I just got back from this wild week in Berlin where we taught 25 folks about Bonhoeffer right there in his actual house - like, we're sitting in his bedroom, walking the same streets, the whole deal. And wow, this trip was different from the others because everyone kept asking the question that used to make me roll my eyes: "Is this our Bonhoeffer moment?" But after spending time with clergy who are dealing with ICE raids in their neighborhoods and congregations split over whether you can even mention certain realities from the pulpit, I'm not giggling at the Protestant saint thing anymore. We delved into the concrete messiness of what it meant for Niemöller and his congregation actually to resist, not just talk about it, and how Bonhoeffer's vision of a religionless Christianity might help us think through what happens when the entire Christian infrastructure starts to crumble. Plus, we got into some heavy stuff about whether the ethical gifts Christianity gave to Western civilization - you know, humanism, universalism, caring about the weak - can actually survive without the ritualistic and institutional foundations, or if we're just headed for some new form of authoritarianism. Oh, and somehow we ended up talking about Moltmann raw-dogging flights and the theological significance of Instagram memes, because that's apparently where we are now. You can WATCH the conversation on YouTube Andrew Root is the Carrie Olson Baalson Professor of Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary, USA. He writes and researches in areas of theology, ministry, culture, and younger generations. Previous Visits with Andy Root Incarnation as Resistance Life Together in Turmoil & Bonhoeffer's Experiment in Community Resonance in an Accelerated Age Secular Mysticism & Identity Politics the Church after Innovation Churches and the Crisis of Decline Acceleration, Resonance, & the Counting Crows Ministry in a Secular Age Christopraxis with Andy Root Faith Formation in a Secular Age the Promise of Despair ONLINE SUMMIT:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Democracy in Tension - NAVIGATING THE INTERLOCKING CRISES OF DEMOCRACY AND RELIGION ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Democracy today faces profound challenges – polarization, inequality, populist authoritarianism, and widespread cynicism are eroding the foundations of democratic life. Yet, what if democracy's greatest strength lies not in eliminating these tensions, but in productively embracing them?The summit will navigate the complex terrain between political equality and social justice, liberal freedom and democratic sovereignty, and ethical demands and political action. As always, the class is donation-based, including 0. INFO & Sign-Up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.HomebrewedClasses.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Theology Beer Camp ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠is a unique three-day conference that brings together of theology nerds and craft beer for a blend of intellectual engagement, community building, and fun. Guests this year include John Dominic Crossan, Kelly Brown Douglas, Philip Clayton, Stacey Floyd-Thomas, Jeffery Pugh, Juan Floyd-Thomas, Andy Root, Grace Ji-Sun Kim, Noreen Herzfeld, Reggie Williams, Casper ter Kuile, and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get info and tickets here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. _____________________ This podcast is a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Homebrewed Christianity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ production. Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the Homebrewed Christianity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theology Nerd Throwdown⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Rise of Bonhoeffer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcasts for more theological goodness for your earbuds. Join over 70,000 other people by joining our⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack - Process This!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get instant access to over 50 classes at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.TheologyClass.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow the podcast, drop a review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, send ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠feedback/questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or become a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠member of the HBC Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Worship - July 13, 2025“The Prodigal Son” - Luke 15:11-32Lauren McMillan, Director of Family Ministries

In this week's conversation on FrontStage BackStage, host Jason Daye is joined by Andy Root. Andy is a Professor of Youth and Family Ministries at Luther Seminary. He is the host of the thought-provoking podcast When Church Stops Working, and just the title of that podcast probably gets your mind working. As pastors and ministry leaders, we really encourage you to check that podcast out. Andy has written a number of books, including his latest, entitled Evangelism in an Age of Despair.Dig deeper into this conversation: Find the free Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide, all resource links, and more, at http://PastorServe.org/networkSome key takeaways from this conversation:Andy Root on the importance of authentic relationships in ministry over strategies and programs: “Every part of the Christian life is evangelistic.”Andy Root on the significance of recognizing how social media shapes our inner lives: “Social media has been a huge piece of what ignites our unhappiness and our despair.”Andy Root on the deep and often overlooked impact of simply being present with others: “​​​​In this accelerated age, we miss the utter power of what it means just to be present with people.”----------------Looking to dig more deeply into this topic and conversation? FrontStage BackStage is much more than another church leadership show, it is a complete resource to help you and your ministry leaders grow. Every week we go the extra mile and create a free toolkit so you and your ministry team can dive deeper into the topic that is discussed.Visit http://PastorServe.org/network to find the Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide. Our team pulls key insights and quotes from every conversation with our guests. We also create engaging questions for you and your team to consider and process, providing space for you to reflect on how each episode's topic relates to your unique church context. Use these questions in your staff meetings, or other settings, to guide your conversation as you invest in the growth of your ministry leaders. Love well, live well, & lead well Complimentary Coaching Session for Pastors http://PastorServe.org/freesession Follow PastorServe LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | FacebookConnect with Jason Daye LinkedIn | Instagram...

Rev. Brandon Metcalf talks with Steph and Andy about his strategies for family ministry and why men play a vital role in the church and home.   Bio: Brandon Metcalf currently serves as the Associate Pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto, IL and previously served as a DCE in the Missouri District. He is a contributing author to numerous books and Bible studies for youth ministries and has spoken at many district and national youth gatherings, including the session "Worth Dying For: A New Model for Dating/Relationships" at the past two LCMS Youth Gatherings. He enjoys playing volleyball, board games, trivia, and writing parody songs, but his greatest joys in life come from being a husband and a father. Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

In this episode, our guest Deb Jurchen talks about the importance of intergenerational connectedness as it relates to family ministry in churches and homes.   Bio: Deb Jurchen holds a BFA in K-12 Art Education from Concordia University, Nebraska, and an MSE in Family Life Education from Concordia University Wisconsin & Ann Arbor. Professionally, Deb serves as the Director of University Institutes at Concordia University, Nebraska, an adjunct professor in the Family Life Education Graduate program at Concordia University, Nebraska, as well as the Family Life Ministry Consultant for the Nebraska District LCMS.    Deb is married to Rev. Dr. Pete Jurchen who is Assistant Professor of Lutheran Education and Faith Formation at Concordia University, Nebraska. Together, they have five children and reside in Seward, Nebraska. She loves hiking, gardening, and staying active with her kids!  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

In this episode, Steph welcomes the newest co-host to Friends for Life – Rev. Andy Becker – as he shares his role with LCMS Family Ministry and introduces Season 9.   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

This morning we heard from Joe Snyder with Arkansas Baptist Children and Family Ministries as he shared about their ministry as well as brought the message “Walking Into the Storm” from Matthew 14:22-33.

In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Britton hosts Jeff Duerler and Andy Dalton from LifeSpring Community Church in Cincinnati. They share their unique journey from traditional church settings to pioneering microchurch movements. Jeff discusses his long pastoral journey, the transition from multi-site to autonomous churches, and the divine guidance that led them to explore church planting. Andy shares his personal story of obedience and the call to church planting, emphasizing the importance of family considerations and the influence of disciple-making movements. Together, they reflect on the challenges and joys of following God's leading in their ministry. 

As we continue our series Moments with Jesus, we come to Luke 22 and a moment at a table. Our new pastor of Family Ministries, Ben Crellin, shares how Jesus calls us to remember him through this table. www.thevineaustin.org

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Faith Talks, Anna Faith Gillmore sits down with Christine Rokoduru, a pastor's wife in Fiji whose testimony shines with surrendered faith and steadfast service. From her dramatic salvation and bold decision to remain in Fiji rather than move to the U.S., to becoming a pastor's wife at just 18 years old, Christine's story is a compelling portrait of a woman fully yielded to the call of God. Her wisdom, humility, and joy in serving the Lord will challenge and encourage you to trust Him with every step of your journey.Topics DiscussedChristine's clear and powerful salvation testimonySaying "no" to the opportunity to move to AmericaHow she began praying for her future husband at 16God's answer in bringing her together with MalachiBecoming a pastor's wife at 18 and growing through ministry trialsFears from childhood and ministry—and the Scriptures that anchored herEncouragement for young women preparing to serve the LordHer life verses: Proverbs 3:5–6 and Psalm 37:4Key TakeawaysGod's call is not always to go—but to stay, and obedience brings peace.A simple prayer of faith can shape a lifetime of blessing.Ministry isn't easy, but it's worth it when your focus stays on Christ.Trust and surrender are not one-time acts, but daily choices.Your background doesn't determine your future—God does.Faith Talks is a monthly program on the Thee Generation podcast designed to help young ladies discover greater ways to nurture and exercise their faith in their day-to-day walk with Christ. To leave a question for the Faith Twins or our guest, send an email to faithtalks@theegeneration.org. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

Join Lisa today as she interviews Kerry Smith. Kerry is the Pastor of Discipleship and Family Ministries at Good News Church in Powell, Ohio. Listen in as they discuss the nuances of leadership transitions and growth, honing in on the challenges and joys of moving through levels of leadership. PSP Eps. 78 Kerry Smith - NextGen: Impact Built to Sustain Why Not Women by Loren Cunningham and David Joel Hamilton Two Views on Women in Ministry https://www.kadicole.com/ https://careynieuwhof.com/

Feeling burned out in ministry or your parenting life? This short, but powerful episode dives into Isaiah 40:29–31, reminding us that God gives power to the weak and strength to the exhausted. Host Doug Edwards reflects on the challenges of leadership, answered prayers, and the unseen impact of staying faithful. Plus, hear a behind-the-scenes story about a life-changing event sparked by this very podcast. Whether you're a youth pastor, ministry volunteer, or parent, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and a spiritual recharge.

Kara Hackert, Director of Children & Family Ministries

 In Today's Episode... Josh and Kaitlin Saenz share their journey of raising kids and creating a family culture of generosity. They emphasize the importance of giving with both time and money and how their faith has played a role in their generosity. They discuss the tension between cultural norms of holding onto wealth and the call to be generous. In this conversation, Josh and Kaitlin highlight the significance of instilling the value of generosity in their children and casting a vision for why it's important. Finally, the Saenzs also discuss the dynamics of their marriage regarding financial decision-making and how they balance each other's strengths and weaknesses.   Connect with Josh & Kaitlin Saenz Website Instagrams @compelyou  @joshsaenz @kaitlinsaenz More About Josh & Kaitlin Josh and Kaitlin both attended Biola University (Josh studied Biblical and Theological Studies, Kaitlin studied Elementary Education and minored in Bible) and love helping people live their fullest potential. Josh has worked in pastoral ministry, marketing and business development, and serves as a lay elder at Park Church. Kaitlin has worked as a teacher, Executive Director of Family Ministries at Park Church, and currently coaches church and nonprofit leaders. Together, Josh and Kaitlin run a fractional donor development company, Compel You, serving Christian nonprofits in fundraising solutions. They live in Denver, CO and with their two sons, Josiah and Levi, who they homeschool. For fun they love to travel, entertain and ski as a family.   Don't forget about this amazing free offer from Jordan. She put a lot of time and effort into this project to be able to offer it to you, absolutely free! Take advantage now while you can! eBook: Couples Guide to Getting on the Same Page About Money   Reminder: Subscribe, Rate & Review this podcast!   Whatever platform you are listening on, make sure to follow or subscribe & sign up for notifications for when weekly episodes drop every week! And if you feel called, please leave a rating and review. This helps us to reach more people!  JordanPendleton.com

For over two decades, Dan Rogers has served the congregation at River of Life Church in Hamilton, Georgia. While he never demanded that his two sons follow him into ministry, his son Braden found that calling on his own. With Father's Day around the corner, “Pastor Dan” and Braden talk with Redeemed founder Paul Amos about building and maintaining a church, balancing the demands of ministry and family, and what they've learned from one another.Segments/chapters0:00 Intro0:52 Dan's history and present with River of Life Church7:40 Braden talks about growing up a preacher's kid and taking on a role in ministry14:11 The different roles that Dan and Braden play19:36 Raising children while shepherding a congregation28:20 Giving your children opportunities without showing favoritism33:12 What Braden's learned from his dad about ministry—and fatherhood43:41 God created us all to be in communion with one anotherVisit The Redeemed's website for downloadable discussion question sets, show notes, inspirational articles, more resources, or to share your testimony.Join our Exclusive Newsletter: Signup today and be the first to get notified on upcoming podcasts and new resources!The Redeemed is an organization giving men from all backgrounds a supportive, judgment-free environment, grounded in Christian love without demanding participation in any faith tradition, where they can open up about their challenges, worries, and failures—and celebrate their triumphs over those struggles. Have a redemption story? Share your redemption story here. Interested in being a guest on our podcast? Email Nate@theredeemed.com Follow The Redeemed on Social Media: Podcast YouTube Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter

So we're back with my buddy Dr. Andrew Root and his brand new book Evangelism in the Age of Despair - and no, before you ask, this is definitely not your typical door-to-door evangelism handbook. Andy's doing what he does best here, which is taking some heavy theological machinery (theology of the cross, Charles Taylor, French philosophers you've never heard of) and making it speak to the very despair of our concrete cultural moment. The basic argument? Our whole pursuit-of-happiness project has been a spectacular failure, leaving us isolated and constantly chasing distractions. Perhaps the church's calling isn't to add happiness to people's lives but to accompany them into their sorrow. It's evangelism as consolation rather than conversion, which sounds both obvious and revolutionary at the same time. We dive into why the optimistic 90s crashed into our current age of anxiety, how social media turned authenticity into competitive rage, and what it might mean for pastors to be professionally human rather than professionally shiny. Plus, we got questions from actual Substack subscribers who read the thing, which is always dangerous territory. This will not make you feel better about anything, but it might make you think differently about what the gospel actually is. Join us at Theology Beer Camp this October 16-18 in St. Paul, MN.⁠⁠⁠ (Andy is coming too!) Andrew Root is the Carrie Olson Baalson Professor of Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary, USA. He writes and researches in areas of theology, ministry, culture, and younger generations. Check out some of his most recent books  Andy has worked in congregations, parachurch ministries, and social service programs. He lives in St. Paul with his wife Kara, two children, Owen and Maisy, and their dog. When not reading, writing, or teaching, Andy spends far too much time watching TV and movies. You can WATCH the conversation on YouTube Previous Visits with Andy Root Incarnation as Resistance Life Together in Turmoil & Bonhoeffer's Experiment in Community Resonance in an Accelerated Age Secular Mysticism & Identity Politics the Church after Innovation Churches and the Crisis of Decline Acceleration, Resonance, & the Counting Crows Ministry in a Secular Age Christopraxis with Andy Root Faith Formation in a Secular Age the Promise of Despair ⁠⁠Theology Beer Camp ⁠⁠⁠⁠is a unique three-day conference that brings together of theology nerds and craft beer for a blend of intellectual engagement, community building, and fun. This event features a lineup of well-known podcasters, scholars, and theology enthusiasts who come together to "nerd out" on theological topics while enjoying loads of fun activities. Guests this year include John Dominic Crossan, Kelly Brown Douglas, Philip Clayton, Stacey Floyd-Thomas, Jeffery Pugh, Juan Floyd-Thomas, Andy Root, Grace Ji-Sun Kim, Noreen Herzfeld, Reggie Williams, Casper ter Kuile, and more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get info and tickets here⁠⁠⁠⁠. Online Class:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rediscovering the Spirit: Hand-Raisers, Han, & the Holy Ghost⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with Dr. Grace Ji-Sun Kim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ _____________________ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hang with 40+ Scholars & Podcasts and 600 people at Theology Beer Camp 2025 (Oct. 16-18) in St. Paul, MN. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This podcast is a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Homebrewed Christianity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ production. Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the Homebrewed Christianity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theology Nerd Throwdown⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Rise of Bonhoeffer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcasts for more theological goodness for your earbuds. Join over 80,000 other people by joining our⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Substack - Process This!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get instant access to over 45 classes at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.TheologyClass.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow the podcast, drop a review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, send ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠feedback/questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or become a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠member of the HBC Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theology Beer Camp | St. Paul, MN | October 16-18, 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our latest episode, we spoke with Chris Sasser, pastor of family ministries at Port City Community Church in Wilmington, North Carolina, and author of Bags, Helping Your Kids Lightenthe Load. With nearly three decades of ministry experience, Chris has devoted his life to guiding parents and leaders in nurturing the spiritual journey of the next generation.Chris shares his insights on "whole family ministry," a comprehensive approach involving kids, teenagers, and parents in the discipleship process, not just siloed ministries operating independently of each other. He emphasized prioritizing "connection over content" to build meaningful relationships within families.Register now for the D6 Conference 2026 (Northwest or Southeast) here: ⁠www.d6conference.com⁠Get a copy of Chris Sasser's book, Bags: Helping Your Kids Lighten the Load, here: ⁠https://bit.ly/3hNTKJU⁠Sign up for the weekly email Top Reads for Busy Leaders here: ⁠https://bit.ly/TopReadsRHP

More than 60% of children who grow up in church will walk away from it in their young adult years, according to Barna. Why is this happening—and what can be done to reverse the trend? Dr. Josh Mulvihill, Executive Director of Church and Family Ministry at RenewaNation, joins us to unpack the root of the crisis: a breakdown in biblical discipleship. He shares a compelling vision for how families, churches, and schools can work together to raise children with resilient, gospel-centered worldviews—and why it starts with parents and grandparents reclaiming their God-given role's as the primary disciplers.Main Topics:The Discipleship Disconnect – Why many Christian parents now believe it's the church's job to disciple their kidsThe Three-Stranded Cord – How family, church, and education can align to build a strong biblical foundationThe Power of Grandparents – Why grandparents are overlooking their vital biblical role in passing down faith to future generationsRaising gospel-centered families isn't about perfection—it's about faithfulness, and the courage to make your home the frontlines of spiritual formation.Make a matching gift donation by June 10!View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!Why Social Justice is Not Biblical Justice

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, host Greg Nettle is joined by Tim Celek from Stadia's post-launch team and two dynamic kids ministry leaders from Georgia—Brittany Ara of City Church Griffin and Robyn Alexander of Foundation Christian Church. Together, they outline five essential principles for church leaders who want to reach and disciple the next generation: Safety isn't optional – Every church needs a clear child protection policy. Not sure where to start? Ask neighboring churches to share their handbooks. Leadership matters – Recruit leaders who can lead teams, not just love kids. Burnout is real without shared responsibility. Let kids serve – Kids and teens need hands-on opportunities to experience their faith, not just hear about it. Know your ‘one' – Ditch cookie-cutter strategies and design ministry that fits your local community's needs and rhythms. Recruit with vision, not guilt – Celebrate wins from the stage, don't beg for volunteers. Help your team build a long-term system for healthy recruiting. They also share fun, creative ideas like using an ice cream truck for outreach and creating dual summer camp models for different demographics. It's a practical, passionate guide for any church looking to multiply its impact through children's ministry. 00:26 – Meet Brittany Ara & Robyn Alexander   02:10 – Why Stadia Prioritizes the Next Generation   03:15 – 5 Things Every Church Leader Needs to Know   03:45 – #1: Safety Must Come First   07:13 – #2: Healthy Kids Ministry Requires Strong Leadership   12:00 – #3: Empower Kids & Teens to Serve   14:00 – Creative Outreach Ideas: Ice Cream Truck Ministry   17:00 – Involving Kids in "Big Church"   19:11 – #4: Forget What You've Seen Before – Know Your Community   21:00 – Real-Life Camp Examples That Meet Families Where They Are   25:39 – Balancing Technology in Kids Ministry   26:00 – #5: Volunteer Recruiting Should Be Vision-Driven   29:00 – What Keeps These Leaders Going