Podcasts about kids ministry

Noah And The FloodHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, Noah and the Flood, with your child after they've  listened!What was your favorite part of the story we just heard? Do you have any questions about what you saw?How was Noah different from the people around him?Noah was the only man on Earth who still walked with God and made the right choices. All of the other people were evil and were doing things God says are wrong.What were God's instructions to Noah? Why might that have seemed strange?God told Noah to build a boat and put two of each animal on it. It was strange because God warned of a flood, but it had never even rained like that before! Noah had to have faith and trust God's plan.What did God promise Noah? How did he show this promise?God promised he would never flood the Earth again, and he put a rainbow in the sky to show his promise.What are some of God's plans for me?To love him forever, to love other people, and to be a part of his family.Think about this part of our Bible verse: “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.” What does it mean that God directs your path?It means he tells us what is best and the right way to live. He does that by speaking to us through the Bible, through his helper the Holy Spirit, by talking to us through other Christians, or by talking to him in prayer.Parent Devotional Hey parents! We have something just for you to enjoy this week's Bible story for yourself. Read over this devotion sometime this week as a way for you to reflect on the Bible story your child saw from Church at Home. We love you!DownloadColoring page and Activity SheetEach week we have new activity sheets and coloring pages to help your child remember the Bible story and learn more about how they can step up in faith.DownloadNavigating Parenthood: Step Up Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out part 3 of this Two Minute Tip series all about how we can help our kids hold onto faith.DownloadToday's Bible Story Comes Genesis 6-8 (from Bible Gateway)6 Then the people began to multiply on the earth, and daughters were born to them. 2 The sons of God saw the beautiful women[a] and took any they wanted as their wives. 3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit will not put up with[b] humans for such a long time, for they are only mortal flesh. In the future, their normal lifespan will be no more than 120 years.”4 In those days, and for some time after, giant Nephilites lived on the earth, for whenever the sons of God had intercourse with women, they gave birth to children who became the heroes and famous warriors of ancient times.5 The Lord observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. 6 So the Lord was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart. 7 And the Lord said, “I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing—all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them.” 8 But Noah found favor with the Lord.The Story of Noah9 This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God. 10 Noah was the father of three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth.11 Now God saw that the earth had become corrupt and was filled with violence. 12 God observed all this corruption in the world, for everyone on earth was corrupt. 13 So God said to Noah, “I have decided to destroy all living creatures, for they have filled the earth with violence. Yes, I will wipe them all out along with the earth!14 “Build a large boat[c] from cypress wood[d] and waterproof it with tar, inside and out. Then construct decks and stalls throughout its interior. 15 Make the boat 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high.[e] 16 Leave an 18-inch opening[f] below the roof all the way around the boat. Put the door on the side, and build three decks inside the boat—lower, middle, and upper.17 “Look! I am about to cover the earth with a flood that will destroy every living thing that breathes. Everything on earth will die. 18 But I will confirm my covenant with you. So enter the boat—you and your wife and your sons and their wives. 19 Bring a pair of every kind of animal—a male and a female—into the boat with you to keep them alive during the flood. 20 Pairs of every kind of bird, and every kind of animal, and every kind of small animal that scurries along the ground, will come to you to be kept alive. 21 And be sure to take on board enough food for your family and for all the animals.”22 So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him.The Flood Covers the Earth7 When everything was ready, the Lord said to Noah, “Go into the boat with all your family, for among all the people of the earth, I can see that you alone are righteous. 2 Take with you seven pairs—male and female—of each animal I have approved for eating and for sacrifice,[g] and take one pair of each of the others. 3 Also take seven pairs of every kind of bird. There must be a male and a female in each pair to ensure that all life will survive on the earth after the flood. 4 Seven days from now I will make the rains pour down on the earth. And it will rain for forty days and forty nights, until I have wiped from the earth all the living things I have created.”5 So Noah did everything as the Lord commanded him.6 Noah was 600 years old when the flood covered the ...

Are you feeling overwhelmed in your ministry, crashing every Sunday? Join Tom Bump, Cole Rice, and Vicki Abbott on this episode of the KMC Collective Podcast as they unpack the critical conversation about maintaining a sustainable pace in ministry. Discover how to transform that dreaded Sunday crash into a powerful momentum for your calling, ensuring you're not just surviving but thriving in your role. In this episode, Tom shares his personal experiences of crashing after each Sunday service and how many leaders face the same struggle. They dive deep into the concept of a godly sustainable pace (GSP) — a framework that helps leaders manage their energy and responsibilities without burning out. You'll hear: Tom's insights on the importance of pacing in ministry and how Jesus modeled this through His own ministry. Cole's reflections on the pitfalls of key person dependency and why it's vital to delegate responsibilities. Vicki's take on building systems that enhance personal relationships rather than hinder them. The stakes are high: without understanding how to manage your energy, you risk burnout and losing your passion for ministry. This episode not only highlights the importance of pacing but also presents an opportunity to rethink your approach to leadership and service. Perfect for ministry leaders feeling the pressure of constant demands, this episode will equip you with actionable insights to shift from a sprint mentality to a marathon mindset. Tune in now and learn how to sustain your calling for the long haul — because eternity is at stake. Need someone to talk to? Set up a 30-min conversation with a Experienced and trained mentor: kidsministrycollective.com 

GOOD SAMARITANHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, Good Samaritan, with your child after they've watched the video service!Jesus told a story. Who was today's Bible story about?A Samaritan man.A Jewish man was hurt – he had lots of owies. A Samaritan man came. He helped the Jewish man. Let's say, Hooray for the Samaritan man. It is good to help people when they are hurt.God made people because he loves everyone. Can you point to someone God made?Help your child point to you and to themselves!Jesus is happy when we help someone and we can be happy, too. Show me your happiest happy face.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage them to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:“God, thank you for making us. Thank you for loving us. Thank you for wanting to be our friend. Help us to help people just like the Good Samaritan. We love you! Amen.”Parent Encouragement - The Good SamaritanHey Parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas from this week to make the Good Samaritan lesson part of your everyday conversation with your toddler at home!DownloadToddler Coloring Page - The Good SamaritanAs your child colors this coloring page, they will be reminded of today's Bible story and that God made them! There are additional coloring pages with familiar faces from today's lesson, too.DownloadToddler Craft – The Good Samaritan BadgesThis week, your child will create a Good Samaritan badge to remind them they can help people just like the Good Samaritan helped in the Bible story.DownloadToddler Activity – Find the Hurt ManIn this activity, your child will find the hurt man hiding under a cup. They will remember they can be like the Good Samaritan. When they see someone who is hurt, they can help.DownloadNavigating Parenthood Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this Two-Minute Tip, How to Help Your Children See Themselves Through God's Eyes Pt.1, all about solidifying the basis of your child's identity through three words.Download

Church was never meant to be a restaurant - it's a potluck. We're invited to come hungry, ready to receive what God wants to do in. us, but we're also called to bring something. God has given each of us something to offer, and serving is one of the ways we worship Him. Whether it's in Kids Ministry, behind the scenes, or in the ordinary "it" of everyday life, we can do it all for the Lord. So come hungry but don't come empty-handed. Ask God: What have You given me to bring to the table?

Are you overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list? In this episode of the KMC Podcast, Vicki, Tom, Cole, and Ben tackle the pressing question: How do we determine what truly deserves our attention? Join us as we explore the complexities of prioritizing tasks in a ministry setting, where everything feels urgent but not necessarily important. Vicki sets the stage, questioning how we can sift through the chaos of responsibilities. Tom shares his insights on the dangers of letting others dictate our priorities, while Cole reflects on the balance between being prepared and building meaningful relationships. Ben adds a creative perspective, discussing how his urge to design can clutter his focus. You'll discover effective strategies for managing your time, including: The importance of setting boundaries to protect your priorities How to recognize when you're being pulled into someone else's fire Tips for assessing what tasks genuinely contribute to your mission This conversation is essential for anyone feeling the pressures of leadership and seeking clarity amidst the noise. Don't let urgent tasks derail your purpose! Tune in and learn how to focus on what matters most. Perfect for ministry leaders and anyone looking to reclaim their time, this episode is packed with actionable insights and relatable experiences that will inspire you to take control of your calendar and your life. Want someone to talk to: Head to KidsMinistryCollective.com and set up a Call with one of us!! 

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DAVIDHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, David, with your child after they've listened to the story!Who was today's Bible story about?David. David loved God and God loved him..David saw a giant, Goliath. He was rude and very tall. Who is the tallest person you've ever seen?Show me with your arms how tall. Wow, that is so tall! But Goliath was even taller.Was David afraid of Goliath?No not at all. Show me your face when you feel afraid. Now show me your face your face when you are brave!David prayed to God because he loved him. We can pray to God and love him, too. Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage them to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for making us and wanting to be our friend. Thank you for loving us, just like you loved David! We love you! Amen.Parent Encouragement - DavidHey Parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by this week and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadToddler Coloring Page - DavidAs your child colors this coloring page, they will be reminded that God loves David, and God loves them, too!DownloadToddler Crafts This week, your toddler will create their own scene from the Bible story by gluing 5 stones onto the river scene. This will remind them that David was brave and used a stone to defeat Goliath because he believed God was the biggest and strongest!DownloadToddler Activity In this activity, your toddler will have fun finding all the “stones” hidden around the room to place in David's shepherd pouch. This will remind of the Bible story about David!DownloadNavigating Parenthood Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out http://saddlebackparents.com/ for resources to help guide you as you do the challenging and worthy work of raising brave, loving, kind kids who love God and others!Download

Your inbox is chaos. Your to-do list never ends. And you're carrying tasks that shouldn't be yours. In this episode, the KMC Coaches get real about neglected tasks, email overload, and procrastination—and why they're actually leadership issues, not character flaws. We share our own struggles, dig into why prioritization feels impossible when you're juggling everything, and walk through practical strategies that actually work. But here's the thing: time management isn't a destination. It's a journey. And the healthiest leaders know when to lead themselves and when to lead their teams through delegation. We talk about the emotional side too—the guilt, the fear of letting go, the boundaries you need to set—so you can move from overwhelm to clarity and focus on what truly matters in your ministry. Ready to stop carrying it all? Tune in. Need Help?? Set up a FREE 30-Minute Conversation with a ministry coach who cares and will listen!  kidsministrycollective.com

Zacchaeus did not have very many friends. Mostly because he wasn't very friendly. But one day he met Jesus and all of that changed! Join Arlo, Kelby, and Tilly as they learn all about Zacchaeus.

Procrastination isn't a character flaw. It's a signal. In this episode, we're getting real about why kids ministry leaders procrastinate—especially when energy is low and the tasks feel endless. Cole Rice opens up about his own procrastination struggles and how they drain his leadership energy. But here's the thing: once you understand why you're avoiding tasks, you can actually do something about it. We explore the real factors behind procrastination: How energy levels directly impact your motivation and focus Why your work environment matters more than you think (yes, lighting and music actually help) The tension between human connection and task completion Practical strategies that work: gamifying tasks, the "Eat the Frog" method, boundary-setting Plus, we share two powerful frameworks: The Red & Green Task System (knowing which tasks drain vs. energize you) The Eisenhower Matrix (so you stop doing busy work and start doing what matters) The big takeaway? You don't need more discipline. You need the right mindset, the right environment, and permission to work the way God wired you. You'll leave this episode with clarity on how to tackle procrastination without burning out—and tools to protect your energy for what truly matters in your ministry.   Want some help breaking through procrastination? Let us have a conversation: pick a coach and schedule a call

Today, Tilly teaches the friends all about someone named Joseph! Joseph had some crazy dreams and a big family. Check out the whole story in this episode!And for more great stories, don't forget to look for Stories of the Bible from Saddleback Kids!“And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NLT)Genesis 37 The same question gets asked in a variety of forms: Where is God when it hurts? Why do bad things happen to good people? How can a good and loving God allow suffering?Joseph could have asked these same questions; maybe he did. Mistreated and abused by his brothers, and eventually sold into slavery by them, Joseph could have easily chosen to believe that this was all evidence that God didn't love him or wasn't “on his side.” Isn't that the same place our minds are often tempted to go when we face difficulties or troubles? “God must not care about me. If He did, these things wouldn't be happening to me.” This seems to be especially true if our troubles come about because of other people's meanness or sin, while we were simply trying to live our lives following God.Joseph was living a life of obedience even as a young boy. He wasn't perfect, as evidenced by his somewhat boastful interactions with his brothers, where he relayed his dreams of ruling over them. But he definitely didn't deserve to be thrown in a pit and then sold as a slave by his own family members! Can you imagine how he must have felt when his brothers ripped off his colorful robe? This robe represented the special bond he had with his father and his brothers, in their jealousy, destroyed it.Have you ever seen something you treasured be ripped apart before your eyes? Maybe it was a tangible object like Joseph's robe, or maybe it was a long-treasured dream that you saw crumble. In those moments, it's easy to ask, “Where are you, God? Don't you see me?”One thing we can learn from Joseph's life is that God never leaves us. Even when we can't see Him or feel Him, He is there and He is working on our behalf. Joseph must have wondered what God was up to as he was being led off to Egypt as a slave, but he didn't waiver in his trust and obedience to God.Questions to think about:How does it feel to be mistreated when you have done nothing wrong?What do you learn from Joseph's life that can help you respond to people who mistreat you or are jealous of you?Do you ever struggle with envy like Joseph's brothers did? If so, what are some healthy ways you can deal with it?

What You'll Learn in This Episode You're running your kids ministry on fumes—short-staffed, stretched thin, and wondering where your next volunteer is coming from. This episode is for you. We dig into the real challenges of recruiting and retaining volunteers in children's ministry without burning yourself out in the process. Learn practical strategies Nicole Brutosky and our team use to move from constantly asking for help to actually building a team that stays. Topics covered: Why volunteers quit (and it's probably not what you think) The difference between shadowing and serving (and why it matters) How to build trust with your volunteer team Delegation that actually works Creating safe entry points for new volunteers Fun, food, and feedback: The forgotten retention tools Appreciating volunteers in specific, meaningful ways Want your FREE Call with a KMC Coach? Head to kidsministrycollective.com

The stories we place in a child's hands have the power to shape the truths they carry in their heart.In this special episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana spotlights two incredible children's authors whose books deserve a place on every kids ministry bookshelf and in every family's home.First, Blaire Linne shares the heart behind Yara the Brave, a beautifully written story that helps children understand anxiety, process worry, and discover the peace that comes from trusting God. Drawing from her own journey through anxiety, Blaire offers practical encouragement for ministry leaders and parents who want to help kids navigate big emotions with biblical truth.Then, Kyle Worley joins the conversation to introduce The Dragon Slayer and His Super Special Suit, an imaginative retelling of the gospel that weaves together the story of redemption and the armor of God. Kyle explains why storytelling and imagination are powerful discipleship tools and how theology can come alive for children through memorable stories.Whether you're building your ministry library, looking for resources to recommend to parents, or searching for meaningful gifts for kids, this episode will introduce you to two books that help children grow in both faith and understanding.SHOW LINKS:Yara the Brave and the Swirling Worry  The Dragon Slayer and His Super Special Suit Check out Lifeway Kids CurriculumConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

Hey, Beyond Sunday listeners! For the next several weeks, we are shining a spotlight on the various ministries of our church. Today, we are joined by Preschool Director Jessica Vandagriff and Elementary Children's Director Sam Killion to learn more about our Preschool and Kids Ministries. Tune in today to hear about the heart behind each of these areas, get info on how to plug in, and understand how our Preschool and Kids Ministries contribute to the larger mission of Harvest Church!

The friends at Happy Harbor learn about someone who was good friends with God. His name was Daniel! His story is in God's special book, the Bible. Let's check out his story!

In this episode, the KMC Teach discuss the importance of inviting volunteers to serve in children's ministry rather than simply asking them. They explore the ineffectiveness of mass appeals and share research-backed strategies for personal engagement. The conversation includes personal anecdotes and success stories that highlight the positive impact of direct invitations on volunteer participation.  Listen in and get some practical and sustainable ideas to help you get the right people on your childrens ministry teams 

Ready to start a small group this Fall? Explore Connected Families small groups here. The best parenting support often comes from something simple: walking alongside one another instead of carrying the hard moments on our own. That’s the heart of today’s conversation, as host Stacy Bellward sits down with Dr. Cindy Wilson (Director of Education, Equipping, and Research) and Lori Menekheim (Ministry Partnership Manager) to explore why growing in community makes such a difference. Whether you’re a parent craving encouragement, a friend wanting to gather a few neighbors, or a church leader hoping to support families well, there’s something here for you. Much of that community can grow through Connected Families small groups, and Cindy and Lori make the case for why this Fall is the time to start one. Along the way, they share their own journeys, share a story of one group's transformation, and practical answers about the courses, registration, and the support leaders receive.  And if the thought of leading makes you nervous, they have good news: perfection isn’t the point. Transparency and a willingness to grow together are. As Fall approaches, consider whether God might be nudging you to gather a few parents and grow in grace, wisdom, and confidence together. Listen to the full episode for the encouragement and next steps to get started. Key Takeaways: Growth happens best in community, and walking alongside other parents builds wisdom, peace, and confidence on the hard days You don’t have to be an expert to lead. Your honest, imperfect moments are often what free others to grow Practical tips for starting a group of your own, from choosing a course to the support leaders receive from Connected Families Mentioned in this Podcast:  Connected Families Small Groups Connected Families Certified Parent Coach Training Program Ministry Partnership Program Virtual Small Groups Hosted by CF Coaches The Table Monthly Giving Program cf community Membership Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting! Guest Bio: Cindy Wilson is a CF-Certified Parent Coach and a Certified Family Life Educator with 20+ years in children & family ministry and academia. As Director of Education, Equipping, and Research for CF, she helps churches, schools, and other organizations use CF resources to equip and support families in their community. She is also helping collect data to show the impact of CF resources on parents and families. Cindy lives in Florida with her husband of over 30 years. She has three adult children, one son-in-law, four grandchildren, and a farm full of animals. Lori Menikheim is a wife, mom of two strong-willed teenage girls, and Kids Ministry leader with over 15 years of experience. She is CF's new Ministry Partnership Program Director, where she helps churches, schools, and other Christian organizations use CF resources to equip and support parents in their communities. When she discovered Connected Families, she finally found the language, tools, and hope to parent well and lead ministry well. Now she loves connecting with parents and ministry leaders who want to partner with God in reaching the next generation.  Want to keep this conversation going? Join us inside the cf community — a faith-anchored, coach-supported space where parents grow together. Reflect on episodes like this one, ask hard questions, and celebrate the small wins alongside parents from around the world.

If you're a children's pastor feeling alone, overwhelmed, or questioning whether you can keep going, Ryan and Beth Frank want to meet you at The KidzMatter Conference. This conversation isn't just about breakout sessions (though there are 170+ of those). It's about sacred space. It's about discovering that you are not alone. It's about hearing God's voice again. And it's about figuring out the one next right thing you need to do, instead of drowning in all the "nexts."In this episode, you'll hear why this year's conference theme—rooted in Psalm 78:4—is designed for you, and why creators and first-time attendees often leave saying, "That changed my life."Come as you are. Get your tickets at thekidzmatterconference.com - $95 for first-timers and $50 for students. Need financial assistance? Email support@kidzmatter.com.Lift Curriculum helps you LIFT the name of Jesus every single week by helping kids see that every part of the Bible points us to Jesus. Get 52 weeks of Elementary AND Preschool Ministry lessons PLUS Worship Videos, PLUS Game Videos, AND EVEN VBS - ALL for only $97 for the entire year! Just visit liftcurriculum.com, select the "annual billing" option, and enter the code KIDZPOD in the discounts box on the payment page. Don't wait - the code is only good for the first 100 people, AND it expires on September 30th.

What does innovation actually look like in kids ministry? In this episode, we sit down with Andy, Shawn and Delia to explore how leaders can stay creative, adaptable, and effective in a constantly changing world. From understanding ministry life cycles to knowing when to pivot or persevere, this conversation is packed with practical insight. We also dive into how to bring your team along the journey, pitch ideas to senior leadership, and start small without losing vision. If you've ever felt stuck in a ministry rut or unsure how to move forward, this episode will help you think differently and lead with confidence.Gen Alpha Resource - https://resources.onehope.net/genalphausa/p/100:00 – Intro & episode setup01:10 – Meet Andy, Shawn and Delia + topic introduction (innovation & entrepreneurship)03:00 – Innovation in kids ministry: adapting methods for Gen Alpha05:20 – Feedback loops: evaluating what's working (and what's not)07:30 – Knowing when to stop, pivot, or evolve a ministry10:00 – Understanding the ministry life cycle (vision → systems → decline)13:40 – Avoiding “ruts” and robotic thinking in leadership16:00 – Leading innovation without losing your team19:00 – Bringing stakeholders into the process early21:30 – Drawing ideas out of your team (not just leading with your own)24:30 – Identity vs ideas: letting go in leadership27:00 – Pitching innovation to senior leadership effectively30:00 – Using research, data, and preparation to support ideas33:00 – Real example: launching a podcast (and adapting the vision)37:30 – Starting small: pilot programs and beta testing41:00 – Minimum viable product mindset in ministry43:30 – Building while flying: innovation in real time45:30 – Practical example: early check-in systems (start somewhere)48:00 – Dreaming forward: what innovation could look like50:00 – Final thoughts: small beginnings and faithfulness51:30 – Outro

When there is a big scary storm going on, what do you do to stay brave? Do you find your parents and hide under them? Maybe you even like storms? Arlo and the gang learned about a storm that was especially scary for some fishermen, but Jesus took a nap right in the middle of it!Jesus Calms the Storm“When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Silence! Be still!' Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39)Mark 4:35-41Jesus told us in scripture that we will face many trials in this life (John 16:33). This is a fact of life – not an “if,” but a “when.” Maybe you have not experienced trials yet or maybe you have been through more than your fair share of struggle. Whatever the case may be, God can handle it.Jesus demonstrates His power to the disciples by effortlessly calming a raging storm after suggesting He and the disciples cross the lake in a boat. Soon after setting off on their journey, a storm, described as “fierce,” comes upon them. The boat began to fill with water and, understandably so, the disciples began to panic. They looked around for Jesus, but could not find Him. Eventually, they found Him sleeping peacefully in the back of the boat. He was unfazed by the storm because He was not afraid. The disciples began yelling, “Don't you care that we are going to drown?” Jesus woke up and using only His voice, instructed the waves and wind to be still. Immediately, the storm subsided.Once the storm had ended, Jesus turned to His disciples and asked, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” In the midst of a raging storm, Jesus felt peace because He knew He was stronger than the storm. He would not let it bring down the ship. Yet, the disciples let fear consume them when they faced the storm, not believing that Jesus could save them.When trials or “storms” enter our lives, it is easy to let our fear lead us. Let this miracle be a testament to the power of Christ in our lives. By calming the dangerous storm, He showed us that He can calm any type of storm we are facing. When something scary happens, we do not have to be afraid because Jesus has proved that He is more powerful than anything we will face, including nature.Questions to think about:What storm are you facing?What stands in the way of you handing over your fear to Christ?Is there a time in your life when Jesus has calmed a storm you faced? Trust that He can do it again.

In this episode, Tom Bump, Cole Rice, and Vicki Abbott discuss the challenges of volunteer recruitment and retention in church ministries. They emphasize the importance of understanding the difference between recruiting new volunteers and retaining existing ones. The conversation highlights key questions leaders should ask themselves to improve their volunteer culture and the significance of creating a culture of celebration to enhance retention. Want to get some help with your recruitment plan? We want to help you, Go to: kidsministrycollective.com You can get 30 minutes of FREE Mentor/Coaching just by setting up a a clarity call. 

In this episode, I chat with Brian Mosley from Right Now Media. Right Now Media is jumping into the Kids Ministry Curriculum world with their newest curriculum, God's Kids. Hear from Brian what this new curriculum is and why it may transform your Kids Ministry.Resources MentionedGod's Kids CurriculumVolunteer Webinar

Have you ever wondered who made everything? God did! That's why God loves you so much, because He made you! Let's hear about from our friends.thing just for you to enjoy this Bible story for yourself. We encourage you to read over this devotional sometime this week as a way to reflect on the Bible story your child saw from Church at Home. We love you!DownloadElementary Activity SheetsEach week we have a variety of activity pages to help your child remember the week's lesson. They include new coloring pages and activity sheets to enjoy!DownloadNavigating ParenthoodHey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this Two-Minute Tip, The Universal Talk, all about communicating your child's value as someone created by God.Download

Volunteers rarely quit because of the kids — they quit because of what's (or isn't) happening around them. We're getting honest about the real reasons children's ministry volunteers walk away, and what actually builds a team that stays.   Want someone to talk to about this? Kidsministrycollective.com 

The best holiday ministry moments don't happen in December—they begin with intentional planning long before the season arrives.In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, we're continuing our Summer Dreamin' series by looking ahead to the holidays and exploring how churches can create meaningful experiences that go beyond events and help families grow in their faith together.This conversation is packed with practical ideas for planning Christmas, Easter, and more with purpose. You'll hear creative ways to engage families, equip parents, and create opportunities for discipleship that extend beyond your church walls. From prayer resources and family worship to community outreach and memorable events, you'll walk away with fresh inspiration for your ministry calendar.Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that holiday ministry isn't just about filling the schedule—it's about creating moments that point kids and families to Jesus.Choose one upcoming holiday and ask this question: "How can we help families continue this experience after they leave our church?" Then create one simple resource, conversation starter, or prayer guide that encourages discipleship at home.Because when we plan holidays with intentionality, we're not just creating great events—we're creating opportunities for kids and families to experience the hope of the gospel together.SHOW LINKS: Check out Lifeway Kids CurriculumConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

Who is in Kelby's treasure chest this week? Kelby, Arlo, and Tilly all learn about an amazing woman named Esther this week! Come along with us to Happy Harbor to pop some bubbles, ride the Bible train, and hear an amazing story all about God's love.EstherHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson about Esther with your child after they've watched the video service!Who was today's Bible story about?Esther. God made Esther and she loved God.What did Esther wear on her head?A crown! The crown showed everyone that Esther was a queen.One day, she heard someone was going to do something bad. Uh oh! Did Esther stop the bad thing from happening?Yes! She stopped the bad plan. Shake your head “no” because the plan was not good.Esther had to do something brave and tell the king to stop the bad plan. Can you be brave, too?Yes! God helps us be brave. Show me your strong arms because God made us to do good and brave things.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage your toddler to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for loving us and wanting to be our friend. Thank you for making us. Help us do good things and be brave like Esther! We love you! Amen.Parent Encouragement - EstherHey parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadToddler Craft – Esther Character StickIn this craft, your toddler will create their own Esther Character Stick to remind them of the main character from the Bible story. God made Esther, and God made them!DownloadToddler Activity – Talk Like EstherIn this activity, your toddler will bring the craft they made to life. They will practice saying and doing things with their Esther Character Stick to remember this Bible story about Esther.DownloadToddler Coloring Page - EstherWe have a variety of coloring pages to help your child remember familiar faces from this month's lesson!DownloadNavigating Parenthood - EstherHey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this blog post all about how to foster healthy obedience in our children that comes from a place of love and respect rather than rules they follow out of obligationDownloadAt Saddleback Kids we believe every kid should be known, connected, equipped and empowered. KNOWN by another kid and a leader. CONNECTED to a group where they can grow spiritually. EQUIPPED with the tools and the knowledge to develop a strong faith in Jesus. EMPOWERED to serve others and share Jesus in the world.To sum it up, Saddleback Kids exists to connect kids to God and others while helping them live a purpose driven life.

In this episode, the KMC Team welcomes listeners back to the KMC Collective Podcast for Season 3, discussing their commitment to the kids' ministry community and previewing upcoming topics. They delve into the importance of building confidence in leadership, sharing personal experiences with imposter syndrome and the challenges of people-pleasing. The conversation reflects on highlights from Season 2 and emphasizes the need for community engagement and open dialogue among leaders. In this episode, the hosts discuss their experiences with worship music, the importance of community connections, and the impact of international outreach. They share their excitement for the upcoming season, highlighting new topics and engagement strategies to foster growth in the kids ministry community. The conversation emphasizes the value of learning together and encourages listeners to subscribe and participate in the podcast's journey. Want to sign up for the Better Together Newsletter?  SIGN UP HERE! Want to learn more about the Kids Ministry Collective! CLICK HERE!  

This week Arlo looks for adventure through the telescope in his lighthouse! He is hoping to learn about someone new today. Will learn with the help of his friend Kelby the octopus? Let's find out!For more great stories and things to do, head to Saddlebackkids.comAnd to see the video version of Happy Harbor, check out our youtube channel!Parents, there's plenty for you too at Saddlebackparents.com, and don't forget to subscribe to the On Purpose Parents podcast from Saddleback Parents.Talk It OverThe Parable Of The Lost SheepHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson about The Parable of the Lost Sheep with your child after they've listened to the episode!Who was today's Bible story about?Jesus.A man had 100 sheep. What sound does a sheep make?Baa.Uh-oh. What happened when he lost one of his sheep?He looked and looked all around to find it. Let's play peek-a-boo! You can pretend to be the sheep and I'll cover my eyes then find you. Ready? Peek-a-boo sheep!How did the man feel when he finally found the lost sheep?He was happy! He asked everyone to come celebrate. Let's jump and clap our hands and celebrate, too.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage your toddler to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for loving us. Thank you for making us. Thank you for wanting to be our friend. Thank you that you will take care of us. We love you! Amen!Parent Encouragement - The Parable of the Lost SheepHey parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadCraft – I-Spy BagIn this craft, your toddler will make an I-Spy bag filled with hidden items from the Bible story. As they look for the items in their bag, they will be reminded that the shepherd looked for the sheep. He loved the sheep, and God loves us!DownloadActivity – Balloon SheepIn this activity, your toddler will have fun as they find all of the sheep like the shepherd found his lost sheep in our Bible story. The shepherd loved his sheep, and God loves us!DownloadColoring Page - The Parable of the Lost SheepWe have a variety of coloring pages to help your child remember familiar faces from this month's lesson!DownloadNavigating Parenthood: Step Up Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out part 2 of this Two Minute Tip series all about how we can help our kids hold onto faith.Download

Do you know the real reason we're called to serve in our church communities?In today's episode, Gaby Alessi Calatayud invites us to explore what it truly means to serve as part of the body of Christ. We'll reflect on our unique gifts, learn why every role matters, and uncover how serving others not only blesses our church, but refreshes our souls in return.Let's come together in prayer and devotion, embracing the call to serve, so that we can encourage one another and grow deeper in faith as one community.Tap HERE to send us a text! BECOME A FOUNDING "MY MORNING DEVOTIONAL" MEMBERIf you enjoy your 5 minute daily dose of heaven, we would appreciate your support, and we have a fun way for you to partner with the MMD community! We've launched our "Buy Me a Coffee" membership where you can buy us a latte, OR become a founding member and get monthly bonus video episodes! To donate, go to mymorningdevo.co/join! Support the showNEW VIDEO EPISODES! You can watch our new video episodes on YouTube! Watch Our Video DevotionalsNEW TO MY MORNING DEVOTIONAL? We're so glad you're here! We're the Alessis, a ministry family working together in a church in Miami, FL, and we're so blessed to partner with the My Morning Devotional community and continue the great work done by the show's creator and our friend, Alison Delamota.We pray our personal reflections and devotions will empower you to grow your faith in God, and that you'll join us every morning in prayer! JOIN THE MMD COMMUNITYSubscribe to the show on this appShare with a friendJoin our newsletter Follow Us on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Facebook⁠⁠Leave a reviewMORE PODCASTS YOU'LL ENJOYEnjoy more podcasts from Metro Life Studios, including:The Family Business with The AlessisMen's Morning DevotionalThe Mary and Martha Show Available on our Metro Life Studios app!Get The Metro Life Studios app 

Kidtastic Adventure is this week at Sunrise Community Church. Cliff is joined by Kim Shaw, Luke Miller, Kord Jacobsen and many more as we look what goes into the biggest outreach event of the year for our Kids Ministry.Watch  on YouTube: youtube.com/sunrisecommunitychurchWatch live on Mondays at 10am:  www.facebook.com/sunrisecommunityonline/liveSong: Fredji - Happy Life (Vlog No Copyright Music)Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.Video Link: https://youtu.be/KzQiRABVARk

Noah And The FloodHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, Noah and the Flood, with your child after they've  listened!What was your favorite part of the story we just heard? Do you have any questions about what you saw?How was Noah different from the people around him?Noah was the only man on Earth who still walked with God and made the right choices. All of the other people were evil and were doing things God says are wrong.What were God's instructions to Noah? Why might that have seemed strange?God told Noah to build a boat and put two of each animal on it. It was strange because God warned of a flood, but it had never even rained like that before! Noah had to have faith and trust God's plan.What did God promise Noah? How did he show this promise?God promised he would never flood the Earth again, and he put a rainbow in the sky to show his promise.What are some of God's plans for me?To love him forever, to love other people, and to be a part of his family.Think about this part of our Bible verse: “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.” What does it mean that God directs your path?It means he tells us what is best and the right way to live. He does that by speaking to us through the Bible, through his helper the Holy Spirit, by talking to us through other Christians, or by talking to him in prayer.Parent Devotional Hey parents! We have something just for you to enjoy this week's Bible story for yourself. Read over this devotion sometime this week as a way for you to reflect on the Bible story your child saw from Church at Home. We love you!DownloadColoring page and Activity SheetEach week we have new activity sheets and coloring pages to help your child remember the Bible story and learn more about how they can step up in faith.DownloadNavigating Parenthood: Step Up Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out part 3 of this Two Minute Tip series all about how we can help our kids hold onto faith.DownloadToday's Bible Story Comes Genesis 6-8 (from Bible Gateway)6 Then the people began to multiply on the earth, and daughters were born to them. 2 The sons of God saw the beautiful women[a] and took any they wanted as their wives. 3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit will not put up with[b] humans for such a long time, for they are only mortal flesh. In the future, their normal lifespan will be no more than 120 years.”4 In those days, and for some time after, giant Nephilites lived on the earth, for whenever the sons of God had intercourse with women, they gave birth to children who became the heroes and famous warriors of ancient times.5 The Lord observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. 6 So the Lord was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart. 7 And the Lord said, “I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing—all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them.” 8 But Noah found favor with the Lord.The Story of Noah9 This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God. 10 Noah was the father of three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth.11 Now God saw that the earth had become corrupt and was filled with violence. 12 God observed all this corruption in the world, for everyone on earth was corrupt. 13 So God said to Noah, “I have decided to destroy all living creatures, for they have filled the earth with violence. Yes, I will wipe them all out along with the earth!14 “Build a large boat[c] from cypress wood[d] and waterproof it with tar, inside and out. Then construct decks and stalls throughout its interior. 15 Make the boat 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high.[e] 16 Leave an 18-inch opening[f] below the roof all the way around the boat. Put the door on the side, and build three decks inside the boat—lower, middle, and upper.17 “Look! I am about to cover the earth with a flood that will destroy every living thing that breathes. Everything on earth will die. 18 But I will confirm my covenant with you. So enter the boat—you and your wife and your sons and their wives. 19 Bring a pair of every kind of animal—a male and a female—into the boat with you to keep them alive during the flood. 20 Pairs of every kind of bird, and every kind of animal, and every kind of small animal that scurries along the ground, will come to you to be kept alive. 21 And be sure to take on board enough food for your family and for all the animals.”22 So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him.The Flood Covers the Earth7 When everything was ready, the Lord said to Noah, “Go into the boat with all your family, for among all the people of the earth, I can see that you alone are righteous. 2 Take with you seven pairs—male and female—of each animal I have approved for eating and for sacrifice,[g] and take one pair of each of the others. 3 Also take seven pairs of every kind of bird. There must be a male and a female in each pair to ensure that all life will survive on the earth after the flood. 4 Seven days from now I will make the rains pour down on the earth. And it will rain for forty days and forty nights, until I have wiped from the earth all the living things I have created.”5 So Noah did everything as the Lord commanded him.6 Noah was 600 years old when the flood covered the ...

We believe that the Great Commission isn't just a task for a few—it is an identity for all of us. Throughout this series, we are exploring how loving our neighbors is the essential first step in reaching the nations From our doorsteps to the ends of the earth, we are called to be a people who live out the Gospel in every relationship and every corner of the globe.

In this episode of the Inside Out Podcast, Brent and Andrew highlight Citipoint's Kids Camp. Brent and Andrew share some of their memories related to Kids Ministry.

The greatest gift we can give kids isn't a great program—it's a clear picture of Jesus.In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana sits down with Aaron Wilson, team leader for The Gospel Project at Lifeway, to talk about what it truly means to keep the gospel at the center of children's ministry.Aaron unpacks what the gospel is, why it's more than just the message of salvation, and how every Bible story ultimately points to Jesus. He shares practical ways to consistently teach the gospel in age-appropriate ways and challenges ministry leaders to evaluate whether Jesus is truly at the center of everything they do.The conversation also takes a personal turn as Aaron shares his calling story and offers encouragement to leaders who may be tempted to find their identity in ministry success rather than in Christ.Whether you're teaching preschoolers, leading elementary kids, or equipping volunteers, this episode is a timely reminder that when Jesus is the focus, everything else finds its proper place. When the gospel becomes the foundation—not just a lesson we teach, but the lens through which we lead—we don't just create better ministry. We help kids discover the life-changing hope of Jesus.SHOW LINKS: The Gospel Project Check out Lifeway Kids CurriculumConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

Gen Alpha kids (born 2010 to 2024) are reshaping what families expect from children's ministry, and most churches need some practical, achievable adjustments to keep up. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three concrete changes any church can make to better reach Gen Alpha kids and their parents. Whether your church is just getting started or looking to sharpen what you already have, this conversation will give you a clear path forward. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a church consulting organization dedicated to helping churches move from decline to health. Scott brings the perspective of a millennial parent raising Gen Alpha kids, while A.J. brings a Gen X practitioner's eye for what actually works in the local church. Together they offer frank, field-tested guidance for pastors and ministry leaders every week. [4:07] Communication With Parents: Why digital-first but not digital-only matters for millennial families [9:09] Finding the Right Communication Mix: Avoiding the constant deluge and building a consistent plan [11:18] Safety Systems: Why check-in and checkout protocols are non-negotiable for Gen Alpha families [17:18] Practical Safety Setup: Single point of access, digital check-in, and low-cost ways to make it work [18:36] Tech Expectations in the Classroom: Meeting Gen Alpha where they are without dumbing down the message Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/348 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

GOOD SAMARITANHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, Good Samaritan, with your child after they've watched the video service!Jesus told a story. Who was today's Bible story about?A Samaritan man.A Jewish man was hurt – he had lots of owies. A Samaritan man came. He helped the Jewish man. Let's say, Hooray for the Samaritan man. It is good to help people when they are hurt.God made people because he loves everyone. Can you point to someone God made?Help your child point to you and to themselves!Jesus is happy when we help someone and we can be happy, too. Show me your happiest happy face.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage them to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:“God, thank you for making us. Thank you for loving us. Thank you for wanting to be our friend. Help us to help people just like the Good Samaritan. We love you! Amen.”Parent Encouragement - The Good SamaritanHey Parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas from this week to make the Good Samaritan lesson part of your everyday conversation with your toddler at home!DownloadToddler Coloring Page - The Good SamaritanAs your child colors this coloring page, they will be reminded of today's Bible story and that God made them! There are additional coloring pages with familiar faces from today's lesson, too.DownloadToddler Craft – The Good Samaritan BadgesThis week, your child will create a Good Samaritan badge to remind them they can help people just like the Good Samaritan helped in the Bible story.DownloadToddler Activity – Find the Hurt ManIn this activity, your child will find the hurt man hiding under a cup. They will remember they can be like the Good Samaritan. When they see someone who is hurt, they can help.DownloadNavigating Parenthood Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this Two-Minute Tip, How to Help Your Children See Themselves Through God's Eyes Pt.1, all about solidifying the basis of your child's identity through three words.Download

In episode 40 of season two of the KMC Collective Podcast, Tom, Ben, Vickie, and Ron celebrate passing 375 episodes and major growth milestones, including nearly 180,000 downloads, 25,000 listeners across 100 countries, and early YouTube traction. Tom shares his ministry background, including decades of pastoral work and a passion for supporting burned-out leaders through Restoring Leaders, while Ron recounts his 30 years in kids ministry and his ongoing behind-the-scenes role in KMC. Ron highlights his ministry resources, including the “Kids Guide to Christianity” workbooks and the “Dewey the Dragon” book series. The team reminisces about KMC's origins in internet radio via CM Connect and Blog Talk Radio, their early tech mishaps and memories, and the core mission of community—helping children's ministry leaders not do ministry alone—as they prepare to launch season three. Links: https://pastorronbrooks.com/ https://deweythedragon.com/ https://Kidsministrycollective.com    

DAVIDHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, David, with your child after they've listened to the story!Who was today's Bible story about?David. David loved God and God loved him..David saw a giant, Goliath. He was rude and very tall. Who is the tallest person you've ever seen?Show me with your arms how tall. Wow, that is so tall! But Goliath was even taller.Was David afraid of Goliath?No not at all. Show me your face when you feel afraid. Now show me your face your face when you are brave!David prayed to God because he loved him. We can pray to God and love him, too. Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage them to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for making us and wanting to be our friend. Thank you for loving us, just like you loved David! We love you! Amen.Parent Encouragement - DavidHey Parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by this week and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadToddler Coloring Page - DavidAs your child colors this coloring page, they will be reminded that God loves David, and God loves them, too!DownloadToddler Crafts This week, your toddler will create their own scene from the Bible story by gluing 5 stones onto the river scene. This will remind them that David was brave and used a stone to defeat Goliath because he believed God was the biggest and strongest!DownloadToddler Activity In this activity, your toddler will have fun finding all the “stones” hidden around the room to place in David's shepherd pouch. This will remind of the Bible story about David!DownloadNavigating Parenthood Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out http://saddlebackparents.com/ for resources to help guide you as you do the challenging and worthy work of raising brave, loving, kind kids who love God and others!Download

What if your kids worship time was doing far more than filling a slot in your service? In this episode, we sit down with Dylan Arms — kids worship songwriter, worship director at Springwell Church, and creator of Dylan Arms Kids Worship — to talk about how worship is one of the most powerful discipleship tools you have in children's ministry. Dylan shares why he believes kids were made to worship just like the rest of us — and how the biggest misconception in the Church is treating kids worship as entertainment rather than formation. When you shift that mindset, everything changes: your song selection, your preparation, and the culture you're intentionally building. We dig into: How to define the why behind your worship culture before you change anything else Why engaging the fifth grade boy is your secret weapon for reaching the whole room Practical ways to extend worship beyond Sunday morning — including the power of a playlist What it means to lead the room, not just lead the song How Dylan's newest release, Hello God, teaches kids to pray through worship Whether you're leading with a full live band or a lyric video on a screen, this conversation will give you real, practical steps you can take this week to raise the bar in your kids worship experience. Dylan also opens up about how identity has shaped his writing journey — and why music that's genuine, theologically rich, and just plain good will follow kids home, into the car, and into their hearts for a lifetime. Connect with Dylan: Visit dylanarmskidsworship.com | Instagram @DylanArms | YouTube: Dylan Arms Kids Worship | Streaming: Spotify, Apple Music, and all major platforms.

What if one of the most effective tools for discipling families and encouraging volunteers is something you can create yourself?In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, we're continuing our Summer Dreamin' series by exploring how podcasting can become a powerful extension of your kids ministry. Whether you've thought about starting a podcast or have no idea where to begin, this conversation will give you the confidence and practical steps to get started.Jana is joined by Video and Sound Engineer Donnie Gordon and Podcast Producer Nikki, who share how podcasting can help you connect with parents throughout the week, equip volunteers beyond Sunday mornings, and strengthen communication across your ministry. They also tackle common fears, simplify the technology, and explain why you don't need a professional studio to make a meaningful impact.If you're looking for a fresh way to reach families, encourage your team, and extend your ministry beyond the church walls, this episode will inspire you to dream bigger.Take 30 minutes this week to dream about how your ministry could connect with families outside of Sunday mornings. Maybe a podcast is the next step. Start by brainstorming three topics your parents or volunteers would love to hear about.Whether you're ready to hit record tomorrow or simply exploring what's possible, this episode will help you see that your voice can be a valuable resource for the families you serve!Check out Lifeway Kids CurriculumConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

Zacchaeus did not have very many friends. Mostly because he wasn't very friendly. But one day he met Jesus and all of that changed! Join Arlo, Kelby, and Tilly as they learn all about Zacchaeus.

Nobody tells you what you're actually signing up for when you say yes to kids ministry. The confetti, the costumes, and the camp stories look great from the outside — but what happens behind the curtain? In this episode, Tom, Cole, and Vicky get refreshingly honest about their calling, their biggest ministry mistakes, and the lessons that shaped them into the leaders they are today. From Cole's leap from volunteer to multi-site programming director before finishing college, to Tom's life-changing encounter with a six-year-old girl in Detroit who didn't know who God was, to Vicky's unexpected pivot from aspiring special ed teacher to children's pastor — every story is proof that the calling to kids ministry is deeply personal, rarely predictable, and always worth saying yes to. The team also shares their most cringe-worthy "what was I thinking?" moments — including an indoor pyrotechnic object lesson that sent 300 kids running for their lives and a camp tornado watch that turned into a real-time safety scramble. You'll laugh, maybe tear up, and definitely feel seen. Whether you're brand new to kids ministry leadership or you're in a hard season wondering if you made the right call, this episode is your reminder: God's not done writing your story. This Week's Better Together Challenge: Write your personal ministry calling statement. Answer these four questions — What do you believe about your calling? Why does it matter to you? How has God wired and prepared you? And what future do you want to help create? Share your answers in the Kid Ministry Collective Facebook Group at kidministrycollective.com.

Big ministry vision is exciting until you try to turn it into Tuesday's to-do list. We sit down with Chuck Peters to get practical about goal setting for kids ministry leaders, especially when you're planning for the next season and trying to bring volunteers along with you.We talk about why “actionable, incremental goals” beat giant vague targets every time, and how to build a pathway your team can actually follow. We also dig into Bible engagement goals that move from aspiration to practice, including modeling Scripture use, helping kids own a Bible, and building repeatable habits week by week.If you're doing summer planning, fall promotion prep, or volunteer training, this gives you a clear framework to simplify and move forward with confidence. Subscribe, share with a ministry friend, and leave a review so more leaders can find the show.Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

Today, Tilly teaches the friends all about someone named Joseph! Joseph had some crazy dreams and a big family. Check out the whole story in this episode!And for more great stories, don't forget to look for Stories of the Bible from Saddleback Kids!“And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NLT)Genesis 37 The same question gets asked in a variety of forms: Where is God when it hurts? Why do bad things happen to good people? How can a good and loving God allow suffering?Joseph could have asked these same questions; maybe he did. Mistreated and abused by his brothers, and eventually sold into slavery by them, Joseph could have easily chosen to believe that this was all evidence that God didn't love him or wasn't “on his side.” Isn't that the same place our minds are often tempted to go when we face difficulties or troubles? “God must not care about me. If He did, these things wouldn't be happening to me.” This seems to be especially true if our troubles come about because of other people's meanness or sin, while we were simply trying to live our lives following God.Joseph was living a life of obedience even as a young boy. He wasn't perfect, as evidenced by his somewhat boastful interactions with his brothers, where he relayed his dreams of ruling over them. But he definitely didn't deserve to be thrown in a pit and then sold as a slave by his own family members! Can you imagine how he must have felt when his brothers ripped off his colorful robe? This robe represented the special bond he had with his father and his brothers, in their jealousy, destroyed it.Have you ever seen something you treasured be ripped apart before your eyes? Maybe it was a tangible object like Joseph's robe, or maybe it was a long-treasured dream that you saw crumble. In those moments, it's easy to ask, “Where are you, God? Don't you see me?”One thing we can learn from Joseph's life is that God never leaves us. Even when we can't see Him or feel Him, He is there and He is working on our behalf. Joseph must have wondered what God was up to as he was being led off to Egypt as a slave, but he didn't waiver in his trust and obedience to God.Questions to think about:How does it feel to be mistreated when you have done nothing wrong?What do you learn from Joseph's life that can help you respond to people who mistreat you or are jealous of you?Do you ever struggle with envy like Joseph's brothers did? If so, what are some healthy ways you can deal with it?

Should kids be in the main worship service — or not? It's one of the most emotionally charged questions in kids ministry, and the KMC Collective team is diving in headfirst. In this episode, Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vickie unpack the real conversation happening inside the Kids Ministry Collective Facebook group around kids in big church — and they're not here to hand you one right answer. Because honestly? There isn't one. The team walks through the three primary models churches use — full kids church, kids in the entire service, and the hybrid dismissal model — and explores the honest benefits and real challenges of each. From the powerful discipleship moment of a parent worshiping beside their child, to the logistical chaos of safely dismissing kids mid-service, no stone is left unturned. Want some help? Head to our Website for all the info: KidsMinistryCollective.com

Segment 1 • Are you missing a key reason your Christian life feels stuck or incomplete? • Todd argues that spiritual gifts are woven into God's design for human flourishing—just like marriage, family, work, and education. • What if the fastest way to discover your spiritual gift isn't a test, but simply getting involved? Segment 2 • Why do so many Christians leave their God-given gifts sitting on the shelf? • Todd breaks down a wide range of spiritual gifts and shows how they can be used in surprisingly practical ways. • Could your church—and your own joy—be suffering because you're neglecting a "priestly duty"? Segment 3 • What does Ken Ham's family legacy reveal about passing faith to future generations? • Todd challenges modern children's ministry models that prioritize entertainment over theology. • Are we giving kids a “Jesus is your friend” message when they desperately need a bigger view of God? Segment 4 • Why are so many Christian parents losing ground in the battle for their children's hearts and minds? • Todd shares ten practical ways to pass biblical wisdom to children and grandchildren. • Could simple habits like family meals, handwritten letters, and visible repentance leave a gospel legacy that lasts for generations? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

How do you build a children's ministry from scratch — or step into one and make it better? In this special collaboration between the KidzMatter Podcast and the Cross Formed KidMin Podcast, hosts Hannah Augustine, Hunter Williams, and Tim Beilhartz give you a practical, theology-grounded roadmap for starting strong.Whether you're brand new to kids ministry or a veteran who needs to get back to basics, this episode is packed with frameworks you can apply right away.Visit https://crossformedkids.com/podcast/ to listen to the Cross Formed Kidmin Podcast!

When was the last time you took a Sunday off? If the honest answer is never — this episode is for you. In this candid and deeply practical conversation, Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vicki get real about one of the most common traps in kids ministry: building a ministry that only runs when you show up. They share their own confessions, their burnout stories, and the mindset shifts that changed everything. Here's what's covered in this episode: The team dives into why kids ministry leaders struggle to step away — from the lie that "nobody can do this but me," to the fear of taking advantage of volunteers. They unpack the difference between a ministry that's healthy and one that's secretly dependent on a single person showing up 52 weeks a year. You'll hear practical, scalable strategies for raising up volunteer leaders at every church size — from small churches with fewer than 10 volunteers, to multi-site ministries with 40-plus team members. Whether you're looking for your first right-hand person or building out a full coach model, this episode meets you where you are. The crew also tackles one of the biggest mental hurdles in volunteer recruitment: "don't say their no." Stop disqualifying people before you even ask. Give the Holy Spirit room to work — and be surprised by who steps up. Finally, the team issues a Find Your One challenge: ask God to show you the one person you can begin pouring into today. Then come share that name in the Kids Ministry Collective Facebook group or YouTube comments so the community can pray with you. You don't have to do this alone. A healthy kids ministry never depends on just one person. We are better together.  Join the conversation in the Kids Ministry Collective Facebook Group and share the name of the one person you're going to invest in this week! Need a Coach: Kidmincoach.net Learn about what the KMC offers YOU!: KidsMinistryCollective.com