Kids Ministry and Leadership Podcast

In this months episode we chat through the history and growth of Kids Ministry over the last 200 years. Show notes for this ep will be below.Check us out!WebsiteInstagramProverbs 22:6:  Early BeginningsChildren's ministry has deep roots in ancient times. In Jewish tradition, religious education began in the home, with parents teaching their children the Torah. Early Christians continued this practice, often meeting in homes or small gatherings where children learned alongside adults. During the medieval era, monastic schools became centres of learning, including for children.Sunday Schools in the 19th CenturyIn the 19th century, Sunday Schools expanded rapidly, particularly in the United States. Churches of various denominations recognised the value of structured religious education for children. Key figures like Horace Bushnell advocated for tailored religious instruction that considered children's developmental stages which was groundbreakingEarly 20th Century DevelopmentsAs we entered the 20th century, children's ministry became more formalised. Churches developed structured curriculum and teaching materials, often produced by denominational publishing houses.This period also saw the birth of Vacation Bible School (VBS). Mid-20th Century ShiftsPost-World War II saw significant shifts. The baby boom led to a surge in children, and suburban churches grew rapidly. Children's ministry programs expanded to meet this demand. Innovation was key during this period. Churches began using audio-visual aids, music, puppetry, and drama to make lessons more engaging and dynamic. These methods helped capture children's imaginations and made learning about faith more enjoyable.The Rise of Children's Ministry as a ProfessionBy the 1970s and 1980s, children's ministry began to be recognised as a specialised field. Churches started hiring dedicated children's pastors. Professional organisations and conferences emerged, offering training and resources for those in children's ministry. This era saw a focus on developmental psychology, understanding how children learn and grow, and adapting ministry methods accordingly.Technology and Modern Kids MinistryThe digital age has transformed children's ministry. Today, we use multimedia and interactive tools to engage children. Online resources, apps, and even virtual Sunday schools have become common. This technology allows us to reach children in new and innovative ways. At the same time, we've had to enhance safety protocols to protect children in both physical and digital spaces. Inclusive and Holistic ApproachesModern children's ministry emphasises inclusivity and holistic approaches. We recognise the importance of catering to diverse cultural backgrounds and have developed programs for special needs children.Future Trends in Kids MinistryLooking to the future, we see several emerging trends. The use of AI and virtual reality could revolutionise how we teach children about faith. There's a growing focus on mental health and well-being, recognising the whole child in ministry.Church Involvement"Secondly, the role of the church has been critical throughout history. Initially, religious education took place in small gatherings or monastic schools. The Sunday School Movement expanded this role significantly, with churches becoming central to children's spiritual education. Faith in the HomeLastly, faith in the home has always been a crucial element of children's ministry. In ancient times, religious education started with parents teaching their children at home. The Word of God, church involvement, and faith in the home have been the key threads weaving through the history of kids ministry.

In this months episode Andy goes into depth about one of the big church killers: Assumptions & Avoidance. Show notes for this ep will be below.Check us out!WebsiteInstagramShow Notes:Let’s start with a guiding scripture from Proverbs 4:7: 'The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.’This verse reminds us of the importance of seeking understanding in all aspects of our ministry. Let’s delve into this topic with open hearts and minds."The Power of AssumptionsAssumptions are beliefs we accept as true without proof.In the context of our churches, assumptions can be particularly dangerous. For example, we might assume that everyone understands the church's vision or that conflicts among team members will resolve themselves. However, these assumptions can lead to significant issues such as miscommunication, misunderstandings, and ultimately, a breakdown of trust and unity within those working together.Henry Winkler once said, 'Assumptions are the termites of relationships.' Just like termites can silently destroy a structure from within, assumptions can erode the foundation of our church relationships."Overcoming AssumptionsTo overcome assumptions, we need to focus on active communication, education, and building trust.First, we must regularly share our vision and goals with the Team and encourage feedback and questions. This ensures that everyone is on the same page.Second, we should provide clear explanations and training, making sure everyone understands their role and the bigger picture. Finally, building trust is crucial. We must create an environment where members feel heard and valued.James 1:19 advises, 'My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.' Listening actively and responding thoughtfully are key to dismantling assumptions.There is a great illustration I often use that has a line along the top of the page and one at the bottom.The top line is expectation and the bottom is communication - The gap in the middle is frustration. The only way to close the gap is move CommunicationThe Danger of AvoidanceNow let’s discuss avoidance. Avoidance is the act of deliberately ignoring or evading issues.In our churches, this might look like avoiding difficult conversations, or ignoring conflicts with team or sin within the congregation.The impact of avoidance can be devastating. Unresolved issues tend to fester and grow, leading to a decline in both spiritual and relational health.Bishop T.D. Jakes wisely said, 'What you don't confront won't change.'Avoidance prevents healing and growth, and can lead to further division and dysfunction.ConclusionI’d like to leave you with a thought from Simon Sinek, a renowned author and inspirational speaker, who said,'Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.'This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of addressing assumptions and avoidance in our churches.This approach not only strengthens the individual relationships within the church but also builds a resilient, united community that reflects the love and grace of Christ. Let’s commit to being leaders who truly take care of those in our charge, addressing the issues that threaten our unity and working together to build a stronger, healthier church.

In this months episode Andy will talk all about how best parents can make the most of Spiritual guiding there kids and how we as leaders can guide the parents to do so.Check us out!WebsiteInstagramShow Notes:In Matthew 28, Jesus calls us to follow him and make disciples of all nations. We are to teach others to follow him well. This includes children and young people.The Great Commission has no age limitations!Spiritual formation, as stated in Romans 12:2, is the process of becoming more like Jesus in our thoughts, words, and actions. It is about being transformed by the Holy Spirit and becoming more like Christ in our character and behaviour.As the spiritual writer and teacher Henri Nouwen once said, "Spiritual formation is the process of being formed in the image of Christ for the sake of others."OneHope, a global Scripture engagement ministry, recently completed a worldwide study of teens calledGlobal Youth CultureIn the study, 43% of teens globally identified as Christian. However, far fewer could be called Committed Christians.To be a Committed Christian, you had to have six traits: four foundational beliefs and two spiritual disciplines. It was actually pretty basic, let’s take a look:To be a committed Christian, teens had to:●  Believe God exists and they can have a personal relationship with him●  Believe Jesus is the Son of God●  Believe forgiveness of sins is possible through Jesus Christ●  Believe the Bible is the Word of God●  Pray at least weekly●  Read the Bible at least weeklyThe number of Committed Christians in the study was just 7%! 43% Christian - 7% committed.In Australia it drops from 32% down to 3%Children need to know what the Bible teaches so they can understand its more complex concepts as they grow older.Research that OneHope did in partnership with Barna showed that the majority of parents choose their church because of the children’s program.This research happened in the US, but the concept holds true in other places. Making children a priority and teaching them well matters a lot to families. It draws them into the faith community where they can all be discipled and encouraged.Help them understand that they can talk to God through prayer any time. They can read the Bible and worship any time. Children don’t have as many barriers and doubts as adults do. They are ready to believe that God is real and wants to be involved in their lives. We should encourage this faith and trust.Finally, we are going to look at a very important point–the role of family.The survey of parents in the US. It showed that 80% of Christian parents agree they are primarily responsible for the faith development of their child. However, only 25% say they are in a good place with their faith related interactions. That’s a big drop!As 1 Corinthians 11:1 says, "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ." Our children will learn more from observing our actions than from our words. We can show them daily the importance of putting our beliefs into practice.This can include things like regular family devotions, praying together, and having open discussions about faith. There are countless opportunities to have spiritual conversations and teaching moments. As a dad of three, I can attest to this!Deuteronomy 6:4-9 tells us that parents have a responsibility to teach their children about God and His commandments so that they may follow Him all the days of their life. Proverbs 22:6 echoes this: "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it."Let’s help children start this journey so they can follow Jesus and look more like him every day.

Andy Kirk takes us on a road to getting rid of self in a world where self is the 'most important.' Check out this months episode with us. Check us out!WebsiteInstagramShow Notes:The notion is that as we are called to express the Image of God as we live out the Mission of GodAugustine grappled with a fundamental question that many of us have pondered:"Who put this will in me?"The evolution of the self though is a fascinating journey.Augustine's introspection initiated the concept of the self as a stable, enduring reality that defines an individual.This psychological perspective, rooted in the concept of self, contributed to frameworks like Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and was further developed by thinkers like Michel de Montaigne, who explored the autobiographical self.19th Century German writer GRENZ asked- “What happens when the concept of the infinite within the finite, on which the self-expressive self relies for stability and overcoming its particularity, proves to be an unstable center?"Or to say another way “What happens when SELF is at the Centre?”This crisis gave birth to the postmodern self, characterised by the loss of self and the embrace of its demise.A famous theologian put it this way-“The intended working of God’s mission through the world then is ‘the shalom of God outworking by the flourishing of his creation’This Shalom of God can’t be expressed when self is at the centre as it needs us to reflect and show the love of GodRon Sider says it this way“in many crucial areas evangelicals are not living any differently from their unbelieving neighbours.” The consequences of this on our witness to Jesus Christ are incalculable.PEOPLE ARE OUR PURPOSESo how do be as leaders balance this notion of expressing the Misso Die or Mission of God as we reflect the Imago Dei or Image of God?[James 1:22-24 NIV].1- Self-Control through His Strength:Scripture:Galatians 5:22-23Message:We need God's Spirit to renew our self-control. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit, and it's only by walking in the Spirit that we can exercise true self-control. When we depend on God's strength, we can resist temptation and respond with self-control.2- Self-Belief through His Promises:Scripture:Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) Message:Our self-belief is renewed by trusting in God's promises. In Isaiah, He reassures us that His presence strengthens and upholds us. When we place our faith in His steadfast promises, we can overcome self-doubt and face the future with renewed self-belief.3- Self-Esteem through His Unconditional Love:Scripture:1 John 3:1 (NIV) Message:We need God's unconditional love to renew our self-esteem. His love is lavished upon us, and when we see ourselves as His beloved children, our self-esteem is rejuvenated. We are His, and this truth elevates our sense of self-worth.4- Self-Worth through His Redemption:Scripture:Ephesians 1:7 (NIV) Message:Our self-worth is renewed through God's redemption. We are made worthy through Christ's sacrifice, and His grace provides the foundation for our self-worth. When we accept His redemption, we find our worth renewed in Him.5- Self-Awareness through His Word:Scripture:Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) Message:Self-awareness is renewed through God's Word. His Word is living and powerful, revealing the deepest parts of our being. When we immerse ourselves in His Word, we gain insight and self-awareness, leading to personal growth and transformation.

In this months episode Andy will talk all about the next generation, Generation Alpha! How they think, act and are as well as how all other gens tie in.Check us out!WebsiteInstagramShow Notes:Psalm 78:4,7-8We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about His power and His mighty wonders...so the next generation might know them—even the children not yet born—and they in turn will teach their own children. So each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting His glorious miracles and obeying His commands.”Jeremiah 6:1This is what the LORD says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”For us right now looking back along the ancient paths to be able to point the future generations in the way to walkTo break it down-We need to intentionally lead our children and others to the truth of God’s Word.We need to intentionally show our children and others that they belong in God’s family.We need to intentionally help our children and others discover God’s divine purpose for their lives.To help us understand where we are at let’s take a look at where we currently sit with the this unique time in history when 6 VERY different Generations co-exist.1. We are a dynamic generation.2. We are a diverse generation.[WHO IS GEN ALPHA]Generation Alpha, born between 2010 and 2024, is growing up in a world vastly different from the one most of the older generations experienced.They are the children of Millennials and are the first generation that we will see in record numbers in the 22nd century.They are logged on and linked up, known as "digital natives."[PRACTICAL MINISTRY]Reaching Generation Alpha for Christ: Nurturing Faith and Well-BeingIntegrating Faith into Well-BeingPromoting Emotional and Spiritual IntelligenceCreating Inclusive and Accepting Faith CommunitiesFostering a Sense of PurposeEducation on Faith and SpiritualityEnvironmental StewardshipOnline and Digital OutreachPromote Prayer and MeditationEngage with Parents and CaregiversModeling a Faith-Centered Life

In this months episode Andy Kirk goes through Transformative Thinking and the need to be in control of what you think. There is so much power in thought and this will help you greatly.Check us out!WebsiteInstagramShow Notes:Our mental processes operate on a fascinating ratio: 80% subconscious and 20% conscious. While this intricate dance between the conscious and subconscious realms shapes our thoughts, it is the 80% submerged beneath the surface that guides our words and actions."We act in accordance with what resonates in our internal dialogue."Proverbs says - "As a man thinks in his heart (subconscious), so is he."This word Heart in Hebrew is LEVAV+ Levav means-Seat of thought- (Where your thoughts originate)-Intention- (When we say "That guy has a good heart")-Feeling- (Where your emotions originate from)-Inclination/Disposition-INNER SELFSO OFTEN OUR VOICE IS MORE POWERFUL THAN GOD’S VOICE IN OUR LIFEUNLESS WE SURRENDER-Seat of thought- (Where your thoughts originate)Intention- (When we say "That guy has a good heart")- Feeling- (Where your emotions originate from)-Inclination/Disposition- INNER SELFOne of the biggest illustrations of this was when 12 spies returned in the book of Numbers and used a phrase “We are like grasshoppers in our own mind”…..Remarkably, the conversation within ourselves is four times more rapid than external dialogue—an inner symphony shaping our responses and steering our actions.Jesus, a master communicator, faced opposition not from what he directly spoke, but from the interpretations woven around his words- Essentially what people said to themselves about what He saidThis profound insight illuminates the power of perception and the pivotal role it plays in shaping beliefs and attitudes.For those of us aspiring to foster a transformed community, the key lies in transformative thinking.In a recent OneHope study named Global Youth Culture, a compelling revelation emerged: Teens who engaged with the Bible just once a week witnessed a remarkable decrease in anxiety, depression, and confusion in identity.This underscores the profound impact of the Word of God on the well-being of individuals.Within the framework of a biblical worldview, Christian leaders are bestowed with a distinctive opportunity to shape the subconscious minds of those under their guidance.Grounding teachings in the timeless Word of God, a concept articulated as "living and active" in Hebrews 4:12, is not merely a religious tradition but a potent strategy for delving into the depths of the heart and mind.This connection to Scripture is a powerful avenue, resonating within the 80% subconscious thinking of the audience.It goes beyond words spoken, tapping into the transformative potential inherent in God's truth. As the psalmist declares, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105), affirming the guiding and illuminating power of God's Word in our lives.Through its living and active nature, it not only reduces anxiety, depression, and confusion but becomes the guiding force that shapes the very fabric of our subconscious minds.In the words of St. Augustine, "Thou hast made us for Thyself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee."In the Word, we find both rest and transformation—a testament to the enduring power of God's truth.

In this months episode Andy Kirk goes through People vs Process Driven Leadership. The pros and cons to both and how we as leaders can use them to our advantage in all circumstances. Check us out!WebsiteInstagramShow Notes:People-Driven Leadership"People-centric leadership is the cornerstone of a thriving organisation," People-driven leaders prioritize the human aspect of leadership, understanding that nurturing a motivated, engaged, and satisfied team is crucial for success. These leaders build relationships, foster trust, and encourage open communication. As John C. Maxwell once said, "Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge."People-driven leadership styles create an inclusive and supportive environment that not only enhances morale but also encourages innovation, collaboration, and personal growth.  Process-driven LeadershipOn the other hand, those who champion process-driven leadership recognize the power of efficiency and consistency in achieving organizational goals. Striking the BalanceIn the dynamic landscape of leadership, there are potential pitfalls in taking an extreme stance. Overly people-focused leaders may struggle with maintaining structure and achieving consistency, while those obsessed with processes can overlook the unique needs and aspirations of their team members. Building a Culture of Balanced LeadershipLeadership styles do not exist in a vacuum; they are profoundly influenced by the organisation's culture. In conclusion, leadership is a dynamic interplay between people and processes. Effective leaders understand that it's not a matter of choosing one over the other but of harnessing the strengths of both to create a thriving and high-performing team. 

This months episode is an interesting one where Andy chats to us about Spiritual Vibrancy, what that means as well as how anxiety can be tamed through spiritual disciplines.Check us out!WebsiteInstagramShow Notes:DECONSTRUCTION of the truthWe are living right now where many feel and the world feels we have a right to create or recreate our version of Truth.DISILLUSIONMENT with our lives“Never has any one culture had so much and enjoyed it so little”You can’t have gratitude and anxiety in your brain at the same time Let me unpack this further by highlighting some research that explored what it took to create spiritual vibrancy. It’s a funny term and it wasn’t exclusive to Christianity but applying this can help shape what we need for breakthrough from - DECONSTRUCTION of the truthDISILLUSIONMENT with our livesDETACHMENT from othersThis pie chart that is broken into 3 parts points towards the 3 things that produces Spiritual Vibrancy in an adult according to BARNA Research 1- TRUST IN AN AUTHORITATIVE TEXT (BIBLE)2- FAITH COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT (CHURCH)3- POSITIVE FAMILY EXPERIENCES (FAMILY)Now whether you are young or old these 3 aspects are the foundation to spiritual vibrancy. I am sure we would all affirm this and say that the bible is important, church is important and a happy and healthy home is important but my question and probing today is to explore what we can personally do to help these 3 pieces fit together in our lifeThis calling is calling us through His word, into a family of believers to be able to outwork who we were meant to be in the context of healthy families1- TRUST IN AN AUTHORITATIVE TEXT (BIBLE)The thing that is unhinging this is our response to His word…..The terms "indicative" and "imperative" refer to two different verb moods commonly used by the New Testament authors in their teaching on sanctification.Indicative - mood of Certainty, ActualityImperative - mood of Command2- FAITH COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT (CHURCH)In the 1 Peter 2:5 in the  NRSV reads a little differently, it says, “…Let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood.” In other words, there is 2 choices I need to make. First, am I willing to build myself on Christ as the cornerstone? (we just covered this when we allow the Word of God to be authoritative in our life as it all points to Christ)Second, will I allow God to work on my rough edges to be built into God’s spiritual house? Living Stones Built into a Spiritual HouseEph. 2:19-22 3- POSITIVE FAMILY EXPERIENCES (FAMILY)The third and final part of building Spiritual Vibrancy is a Positive Family Experience Let me show you some statistics in the home that may challenge us all……HOW DO WE BRING THIS ALL TOGETHER??[1]- The Bible is good and you can read that anywhere[2]- The Church community is good but you can enjoy that without any real connection with the Word of God or taking it home [3]- Positive family experiences can happen external from church and void of the bibleBUT when all done together it brings growth individually and growth to those around us….

On this months ep, Andy Kirk goes deep into Generational Mentality and shows us, regardless of your generation, how we can best setup and help the other generations around us. 

On this months ep, Andy Kirk goes deep into Servant Leadership and how Jesus showed us how the best leaders are the ones that serve others.  Mark 10:42-45"You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many."So a Question for you all and one to write down is- Do you need a position in order to lead others?The First impact 1- Fosters Trust: Servant leaders build trust through authenticity and selflessness. This trust creates a positive and supportive environment where people feel safe and valued.Stephen Covey said- "Trust is the glue of life. It's the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It's the foundational principle that holds all relationships." The second impact-Enhances Team Dynamics: Servant leaders encourage collaboration and teamwork. “Teamwork makes the dream work." Thirdly- Boosts Morale and Satisfaction: Genuine care and support from servant leaders elevate morale and job satisfaction. This, in turn, leads to higher productivity and a lower turnover rate.Steve Jobs explained it that “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do."Number 4- Inspires Others: Servant leaders inspire others to adopt the same mindset. This cultivates a culture of service and compassion that extends beyond the leader's immediate influence."Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge." - Simon Sinek5th impact is it- Leads to Lasting Change: Servant leadership serves as a catalyst for societal change. Leaders who prioritize the well-being of their communities can spearhead initiatives that address systemic issues, promote justice, and advance equality.Margaret Mead sums this thought up when she said-"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."1- Fosters Trust: , 2-Enhances Team Dynamics: , 3- Boosts Morale and Satisfaction: , 4- Inspires Others: , 5- Leads to Lasting Change: Produced & Edited by Poly Studios