4: A Communicative God

Can Christians celebrate Halloween? Seth and Shannon talk about freedom in Jesus, honoring your conscience, and loving others who make different choices. Drawing on Paul's discussion of food sacrificed to idols in 1 Corinthians, they consider why fear doesn't have to drive family decisions—and how Halloween can be an opportunity to connect with neighbors. Plus, childhood trick-or-treating memories, the Hein family's Spider-Verse costumes, and a few quotes from the kids. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2026/episode-010.html

After two years away, Seth and Shannon return to Wonder and Welcome with a family update: an unexpected foster placement that brought two children into their home and a year of learning to depend on God in new ways. They talk honestly about marriage under pressure, the support of their church community, and why they're restarting the podcast before life slows down. Plus, a look at upcoming conversations about baptism, technology, and pursuing your children's hearts—and why the teenage years can be a season to enjoy. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2026/episode-009.html

The Hein family traveled to Israel in September of 2023 and recorded a parenting conversation with dear friends Daniel and Shachar Harel. We cover diverse topics such as vineyards, bedtime routines, and losing your cool in Hebrew. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2024/episode-008.html

Seth and Shannon discuss how they have including their children in times of prayer and fasting in the life of their church. There are lots of difficulties, but the work is worth it. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2023/episode-007.html

Shan remembers things friends have said to her that turned out to be weirdly encouraging. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2023/episode-006.html

In this episode, we talk with the hilariously wonderful Curt and Brenda McCutchan. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2023/episode-005.html

In this episode, we welcome our very first guest parents and talk about prayer, community, and the importance of working together. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2023/episode-004.html

Today we are sharing with you a parenting seminar from the Confluence 2023 conference, with 4 of our favorite people: Rick and Gayle Hein, and Curt and Brenda McCutchan. Over the next few episodes we will be having both couples on as guests to share more wisdom, insights, and stories! Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2023/episode-003.html

Input can feel like an attack, but it is often a gift. In this episode, Seth and Shannon discuss the importance of receiving input and feedback in parenting. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2023/episode-002.html

Seth and Shannon make introductions, explain the meaning behind the name Wonder & Welcome, and share stories of encouraging and squashing wonder and welcome. Show notes available at https://www.wonderandwelcome.com/2023/episode-001.html