The Small Church Ministry Podcast

That question — “Would you keep doing your ministry if you weren’t paid?” — drives me nuts. Ministry isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is pay. Some serve as a career, others as a calling — and both deserve respect. This episode isn’t about right or wrong; it’s about honesty, healthy boundaries, and giving yourself permission to choose what works for your life, whether that includes a paycheck or not.What You’ll Hear:How the “Would you work for free?” question misses the messy, real-life truth about small church ministryWhy budgets don’t always reflect the value churches place on ministry rolesWhen unclear expectations can lead to hurt—and why clear boundaries protect everyoneJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

If your church is shrinking, struggling, or just doesn’t look like it used to—it can feel like failure. But what if it’s not?In this episode, we talk honestly about fear, change, and what actually makes a church vibrant (hint: it’s not numbers). Because while buildings close, callings don’t—and Jesus isn’t panicking.You’ll hear:Why panic isn’t a strategy—and what to focus on insteadHow to grieve well without getting stuck in itWhat to do when the youth group disappears (or never existed)What influence looks like when you have no title or teamLet’s shift from fear to purpose—and start showing up like it still matters.Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

What if you could enter the next ministry year with clarity, unity, and a plan that actually fits your church? In this episode, I talk with Lauren Jackson from Kids Ministry Circle about how churches of any size can create a meaningful, intentional KidMin plan—and why July is the perfect time to start. Whether you're leading solo or working with a team, this conversation will give you practical ideas and a whole lot of encouragement.In this episode, you'll hear:1. Why summer is the ideal time to plan your KidMin year2. How to invite Jesus into your planning process3. Key conversations to have with your pastor and team4. What planning looks like in small church contexts5. Encouragement for leaders who feel overwhelmed or under-resourcedConnect with Lauren Jackson:www.nextgenministrynetwork.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

What if your small church could run a meaningful, Jesus-centered children’s ministry—even with just a few kids and a couple of volunteers? In this episode, I’m talking with Group Publishing about their brand-new Sunday School curriculum, Two or More, designed specifically for smaller churches and mixed-age groups. If you've been trying to “make it work” with curriculum that doesn’t fit your context… this one's for you.In this episode, you'll hear:1. Why Two or More was created with small churches in mind2. How it works for all ages in the same room3. What makes this curriculum different from others on the market4. How it supports volunteers who wear all the hats5. How to know if it’s the right fit for your churchFind Two Or More Curriculum here: www.smallchurchministry.com/groupConnect with Ali Thompson: athompson@group.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

In this episode of The Small Church Ministry Podcast, Laurie names something many small churches deal with—but haven’t had the words for: ministry silos. You know when two ministries plan events on the same night—and no one realizes it? Or you hear about something great after it already happened? That’s a silo—and it’s more common than we think. We’ll talk about why silos form, how they quietly hurt small churches, and—best of all—how to start breaking them down without adding more to your plate.In this episode, you’ll hear:1. Signs your church might be stuck in silo-mode2. Why silos are especially harmful in smaller churches3. How collaboration can bring momentum and support4. Practical ways to start building bridges5. One simple conversation that can spark real changeJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

In this inspiring episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, host Laurie Graham talks with Heather Harkins about transforming children's ministry in a small church. Heather shares practical strategies for increasing congregational involvement, breaking down traditional ministry barriers, and creating meaningful intergenerational connections. Learn how her church reimagined children's ministry by Involving senior adultsCreating church-wide eventsDeveloping a flexible, inclusive approach that works for churches with limited resourcesWhether you're a children's ministry volunteer or church leader, this episode offers creative solutions for building a vibrant, supportive ministry that engages the entire congregation.Connect with Heather Harkins:www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

In this series, we’ve been naming what’s broken in church culture—and today, we’re talking about what we lost in discipleship.When did spiritual growth become just facts, checklists, and classroom settings? Jesus didn’t disciple minds—He discipled hearts. He invited people into His life. He wept. He asked questions. He modeled emotional depth, not just theological accuracy.Somewhere along the way, we started ignoring that side of discipleship—and it’s costing us. Real transformation doesn’t happen without real connection.In this episode hear:Why emotions, vulnerability, and connection matter in spiritual growthHow Psalms and the life of Jesus model emotional intelligenceWhat happens when we teach minds but ignore heartsWhy small churches are uniquely positioned to lead the way in authentic discipleshipLet’s stop numbing out and start showing up—heart, soul, and all.Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

This anniversary series is about naming what’s broken in church culture—and making room for leadership that looks like Jesus.In this episode, we’re rethinking the phrase “We’re a biblical church.” It’s often used to divide, not unite—and that’s a problem.We’ll cover:1. Why “we’re a biblical church” can actually drive people apart instead of uniting us.2. My personal frustration with how “biblical” has sometimes been used as a measuring stick for others’ faith.3. Celebrating our diverse, Scripture-loving community4. How using “biblical” as a litmus test for belonging does more harm than good.5. Reclaiming “biblical” as a term that reflects Christlike love, humility, and connection.Let’s use our words to build unity—not walls.Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

Church should be a place of growth and healing—but too often, dysfunction gets disguised as “unity” or “God’s will.”In this episode of our anniversary series, we’re naming the unhealthy systems churches cling to and calling for leadership that reflects Jesus’ heart.We’ll talk about:1. True unity vs. fear-based “togetherness”2. The damage of avoiding hard conversations3. How power imbalances keep people silent4. Why dysfunction isn’t spiritual maturity5. What it takes to build an emotionally healthy church cultureIt’s time for small churches to lead with empathy, curiosity, and respect.Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

We’re kicking off our 4-part anniversary series: “Off Script: Five Years Later & Still Saying What No One Else Will.”This series names what’s broken in church culture—and calls us to something better. From power dynamics to discipleship, we’re going there.Today’s episode tackles a common problem: treating volunteers like a workforce instead of ministry partners. This mindset leads to burnout, disconnection, and people feeling used—not valued.We’ll explore how to move from a task-based model to a relational one that reflects Jesus’ heart for ministry.In this episode:1. Why treating volunteers as workers leads to burnout2. Helpers vs. true ministry partners3. How to build a culture where volunteers feel valued4. The power of shared ownership in ministryIf your church is stuck in a “fill-the-slot” mindset, this episode is your invitation to rethink volunteer ministry.Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!Get the Ministry Bundles here!Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/