1. What Is a Calling and Why Is It Necessary?

It’s a Wrap on an Incredible Season! Join us for an exciting and heartfelt finale to this season of Kids Ministry Calling Podcast! In this special Q&A episode, we’re diving into YOUR questions straight from the floor of the ETCH Conference. From navigating challenging ministry moments to celebrating big wins in kids ministry, this episode is jam-packed with practical wisdom and a few laughs along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned ministry leader or just starting your journey, this episode is designed to equip and encourage you as you impact the next generation for Christ.Thank you for an amazing season! As we close out this season, we want to say a HUGE thank you to all our listeners! Your passion for serving kids, students, and families inspires us every day. We are grateful for your support, your feedback, and your dedication to building God’s kingdom.Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode when we’re back for the next season. In the meantime, follow us on Instagram @lifeway_kids for updates, encouragement, and resources to support your ministry journey.Listen now and share this episode with your ministry team! Merry Christmas!SHOW LINKS:Explore The BibleThink Biblically Christ-Centered ParentingThe Gospel Project AxisRaising Boys and GirlsConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Ever feel like you’re juggling a dozen roles at once in kids ministry? Whether you’re organizing holiday programs, managing volunteers, or supporting families in need, the demands can feel endless! In this episode, Jana Magruder, Nikki Ogden, and Lynley Mandrell, explore what it takes to thrive in kids ministry leadership, sharing real-life strategies and encouragement for navigating the chaos. From juggling countless roles to managing volunteers and navigating the demands of being a leader, they unpack the realities, rewards, and challenges of wearing all the different hats of Kids Ministry.Learn why delegation, collaboration, and understanding your own strengths are essential for thriving in this fast-paced ministry environment. Whether you're navigating volunteer recruitment or offering emotional support to families, this episode is packed with strategies and encouragement for leaders just like you. Get ready to be inspired, equipped, and reminded that you don’t have to do it all alone!SHOW LINKS:Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Live from the ETCH Conference, join us for an exciting conversation with Jana Magruder and Stephanie Chase, Kids Minister at Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, Texas!This season, we’ve been diving into all the different “hats” of Kids Ministry, and today, Stephanie draws random “hats” from a bucket to share her insights! Get ready to laugh as she connects teaching kids the Bible to the quirks of handling raw chicken. Discover her advice on when to delegate, when to grow in your weaknesses, and how to build a team that loves one another and serves together on mission.Thanks for listening—and don’t forget to share this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Connect with Stephanie Chase Raw Chicken TeachingConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

In this engaging conversation, John Murchison shares insights on the importance of administration in children's ministry, discussing how his background in engineering has equipped him with problem-solving skills that are invaluable in ministry. He emphasizes the need for leaders to balance administrative tasks with empowering volunteers, fostering ownership, and focusing on the gospel's mission. The discussion highlights the significance of viewing tasks as opportunities for growth and leadership development within the church community.John also shares practical tips for effective administration in ministry, including time management and systematizing processes to enhance efficiency. We know this episode will help you wear the administration hat a little better! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Didn't realize you would be a certified event planner when you entered Kids Ministry? We're here for you! In this conversation, Bill Emeott dives into his wealth of experience in children’s ministry, zeroing in on the essentials of impactful event planning! He stresses the importance of having a clear purpose, knowing your audience, and setting focused goals for every event. Bill shares practical, actionable tips for pulling off successful events—from building a strong team and creating a budget to effective marketing strategies. He also highlights the need for event evaluation to keep improving and ensures that the gospel stays at the heart of everything. Bill wraps up with his inspiring personal calling story, showing how God has faithfully led him throughout his ministry journey! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Ever wondered what it takes to build a thriving kids ministry team?" In this episode, Heidi Hensley shares her insights on the vital roles that shape a successful ministry, with a special emphasis on the coaching element. From purposeful recruiting to fostering community among volunteers, Heidi explains how these efforts lay the foundation for impactful ministry. She also dives into the importance of continuous training and development, underscoring the value of investing in people. Finally, Heidi opens up about her personal calling story, reflecting on how mentors and her experiences have inspired her journey in children's ministry.Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS:Connect with Lifeway Kids Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Stepping into the role of a counselor can feel intimidating, but wearing this hat can be so crucial for creating lasting spiritual impact on the families we serve. On today's show we're putting on the "counselor hat" and tackling one of the most meaningful yet challenging roles in kids ministry. Moving away from a flashy, entertainment-driven approach, we talk about how the church can focus on building genuine relationships and fostering a safe community for kids.We also dive into the role of the children's ministry leader as a counselor for pre-faith conversations and other important discussions with kids and their families. You’ll hear about the importance of building strong relationships with both parents and children, as well as the transformative power of listening and being rooted in the Word of God. From addressing deeper heart issues over surface-level behavior to walking with kids through grief and hard times, this episode offers invaluable insights on being present, compassionate, and spiritually grounded in every interaction.Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend.SHOW LINKS: The Moon is Always RoundForming FaithThe Cross Forum Kidmin PodcastConnect with SamConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

In this insightful episode, we dive into the vital role of evangelism in children's ministry with special guest Danielle Bell. Together, Jana and Danielle explore how to keep the gospel at the heart of kids' ministry, emphasizing the power of family involvement and creative strategies to share faith with children. Danielle opens up about her ministry journey, highlighting the importance of intentionality and introducing practical tools to help kids both understand and share the gospel. They also discuss how training kids and parents in faith-sharing practices strengthens the Great Commission as the foundation of their ministry. Get ready to be inspired and equipped to make a lasting impact in your ministry! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Three CirclesThe Gospel: God's Plan For MeConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Whether you're wrangling toddlers or leading preteens, wearing the teaching hat is one of the most important (and sometimes most challenging) parts of the ministry. In this episode, Kevin Jones and Jana Magruder are putting on their "teaching hat" and diving into all things related to leading well in kids ministry! We talk about the vital role adult leaders play in calling out and nurturing the teaching gift in younger kids, helping them grow into their God-given potential. Plus, we'll share how to bring the power of prayer and preparation into your lessons, making your teaching both impactful and fun! You’ll learn how to prepare age-appropriate lessons, equip others to teach effectively, and create an environment where both leaders and kids thrive. Whether you're a pro or just starting, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you lead with confidence and joy! Thank you for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS: The Gospel ProjectLevels of Biblical LearningConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Whether you're crafting a Bible lesson, planning a fun event, or simply looking for ways to engage young hearts, creativity is your secret weapon in kids ministry!Jeff and Abby Land join us on the show today to explore practical ways to wear the "creative hat" in your ministry. From transforming everyday spaces into biblical adventures to caring for your volunteers and families, this episode is packed with inspiration that will help you take your ministry to the next level.Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting, you’ll walk away with new tools and inspiration to help kids experience God in fresh, impactful ways. Don’t miss it—grab your notebook and let's get creative for the Kingdom!We want to hear from you! Click here to leave us a message or question!Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS: The Way to The Savior: A Family Easter DevotionalThe Way to The Manger: A Family Advent DevotionalConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!