Developing Leaders, Discipling Kids
This podcast offers practical advice and leadership insights for those involved in children's ministry. It focuses on discipleship strategies to help families and church leaders nurture the faith of the next generation. Each episode aims to equip listeners with tools to effectively teach and mentor children in a Christian context. The show is produced by COGOP International Children’s Ministries and is intended for children's ministry leaders and parents.
Episodes
Helping Kids Fall in Love with the Bible | Rev. Joy Rivas
What if kids didn’t just know the Bible—but actually loved it?
Jonathan Olavarria sits down with Joy Rivas, International Children’s Ministry Director, to explore how parents, grandparents, and church leaders can help children treasure God’s Word and build their lives on its truth.
Discover practical ways to make Scripture come alive through everyday rhythms, music, imagination, questions, and pla
How to Help Children Understand and Defend Their Faith | Dr. Josh Mulvihill
Most parents and church leaders are racing to equip children with faith but often miss the crucial depth needed to withstand today’s cultural challenges. Dr. Josh Mulvihill exposes how the next generation’s faith is under attack and reveals simple, effective strategies to build a rooted, confident faith that endures. If you're serious about helping your kids and congregation defend their beliefs
Gen Alpha: Knowing Them, Loving Them, Leading Them
What does ministry look like for the most digitally connected, socially aware generation ever?
Hint: Gen Alpha doesn’t need perfection. They need presence.
In this episode, we're joined by Andy Kirk—OneHope Global Kids Ambassador and National Leader of Children’s Ministry for the ACC (Australian Christian Churches)—as we unpack what it means to reach Gen Alpha and their families with authenticity,
Encouraging Kids to Ask Hard Questions
In this episode, we dive deep into how tough questions are a natural part of the faith journey. Dr. Roberts shares why it's so important for children to feel safe asking those big, tough questions as they grow in their walk with Christ. Faith isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about seeking truth—and for kids to become disciples of Christ, they need the space to explore, question, and learn.
How to Teach Kids Theology
In this episode, we sit down with Hunter Williams to discuss How to Teach Kids Theology. While the word "theology" may sound overwhelming or intimidating, Hunter breaks down how to make complex spiritual concepts accessible and engaging for children. Whether you’re a children's minister, pastor, or parent, this conversation will equip you to confidently guide kids in their spiritual growth and und
Teaching Kids About Missions
Kids are naturally egocentric; this means they easily think about themselves first. This may sound negative, but it has to do with how their brains aren’t fully developed. As children age, they begin to notice the people around them and develop compassion and empathy. This is why it is so important that we come alongside children when they are young so that they can be exposed to what it means to
Christian Grandparenting
Larry Fowler shares on the importance and Biblical mandate to intentionally be involved in the discipleship process of grandchildren.
Transitioning Kids to Youth Ministry
Join us as we discuss how to successfully transition kids from children's ministry to youth ministry. This month, we welcome Children's Pastor Cathy Baggerly and Youth Pastor Josh Brown of the Peerless Road Church in Cleveland, Tennessee, as they discuss what has worked well for them.
Children's Ministry in Crisis
Children’s ministry leaders have been plagued by burnout, waning volunteer commitment, denominational discord, and outdated approaches that fall short of addressing the shifting cultural standards of today’s children and families. But all is not lost. Children’s ministries can thrive, but only when courageous leaders lay aside all that prevents them from serving with a spirit of excellence.
In thi
Connecting the Local Church to the Camping Ministry
Camping ministry is more than a week full of fun activities for our youth and children. Camping ministry is an extension of the local church. In this month's podcast, Alabama Camping Ministries Director Denise Junkin shares about the importance of camping ministry and the local church working together to raise disciples for the kingdom.
Children's Ministries Welcomes Jonathan Olavarria
Meet the newest International Children's Ministries team member, Jonathan Olavarria. Our Child Discipleship and Faith Formation Specialist shares about his life, ministry, and new role supporting parents, families, and caregivers in the Church of God of Prophecy to build a lasting faith in the next generation.
From ICM 2023: The Priority of Passion and Power
Presiding Bishop Tim Coalter shares day two of our spiritual formation session on "The Priority of Passion and Power" as we unite to Reconcile the World to Christ through the Power of the Holy Spirit.
From ICM 2023: Embracing Your Chosen Calling
Pastor Janice Roseboro of Smithfield, North Carolina, shares a message with participants at the 2023 Institute of Children's Ministry entitled, "Embracing Your Chosen Calling."
From ICM 2023: The Priority of Presence and Purpose
Presiding Bishop Tim Coalter shares a spiritual formation session at the 2023 Institute of Children's Ministry on "The Priority of Presence and Purpose" as we unite to Reconcile the World to Christ through the Power of the Holy Spirit.
Finishing the Commitment in West Africa
KidServe Coordinator Michelle Brooks-Young share testimonies and stories of the work of KidServe in West Africa, as well as over the past five years.
Change Is Coming: Children’s Ministries Moving Forward
Change is coming to International Children's Ministries. Listen in as Dr. Shaun McKinley, international director, and English-Language Training Specialist Joy Hensley discuss a new future for our ministry.
Leadership 101
Leadership in children's ministries requires competence, skill, and spiritual wisdom. Our role requires us to serve children in the present, consider the preferred future for them and our ministries, and develop strategies for attaining our ministry goals. We serve families, support pastors, and equip teams. We also steward financial resources, ministry spaces, and the talents of our people.
Ther
The Children’s Ministry Leader: Calling, Preparation and Pursuit
Those who serve children must have an accurate understanding of the value of this ministry and their calling, be prepared for ministry to the children and families they serve, and pursue effective ministry. In this episode, Dr. Shaun McKinley shares how kidmin leaders can gain a correct understanding of ministry and calling, the necessary qualities for one desiring to be a leader in ministry, and
Elevating Child Discipleship in the Church of God of Prophecy
Listen in as CM International Director Dr. Shaun McKinley and Training Specialist Joy Hensley discuss the recent inaugural Leadership Summit and the future for child discipleship in the Church of God of Prophecy.
Value and Spiritual Life of Children
The Least of These Matters Most
Dr. Wess Stafford speaks to the 101st International Assembly of the Church of God of Prophecy during the International Children's Ministries presentation. Dr. Stafford is president emeritus of Compassion International and an internationally recognized advocate for children in poverty.
He earned undergraduate degrees from Moody Bible Institute and Biola University, a master’s degree from Wheat
Sabbath, Solitude, and Silence
“The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deep people” —Richard J. Foster.
In Romans 7, Paul said, effectively, “I don’t even know what I’m doing. I do what I don’t want to do, and I don’t do what I want to do. I’m a mixed-up mess!” In “Sabbath, Solitude, and Silence,” we discuss what it takes to win “life’s most important argument” as w
Growing in Prayer: Conversation with God for Anyone
God loves us and desires to be with and speak to us. We can experience Him more deeply and grow in prayer, even in the busiest and most stressful times of our lives.
In this month’s podcast with our special guest Dr. Brian Sutton, we discuss the importance of prayer, practical ways to grow in awareness of God's presence around us, and how to incorporate prayer in our roles as leaders or parents.
The Necessity of Fellowship and Community
One of the disciplines modeled effectively by Jesus was that of nurturing fellowship and developing community. The beautiful scene revealed in the conclusion of Acts chapter 2 demonstrates the continuation of a community known for its commitment to Christ’s teachings and their love for one another. During the past months, we have been relegated to quarantine, isolation, and “virtual” fellowship. I
Maintaining Structural Integrity in Ministry
In the physical world, the term “structural integrity” means “the ability of a structure to withstand its intended load without failure due to fracture or fatigue.”
Unfortunately, we have recently seen the result of the lack of structural integrity and the devastation that it can bring. As in the physical world, when we cannot withstand our ministry load due to fracture or fatigue, emotional and
A Look Back at ICM 2021
International Director of Children's Ministries Dr. Shaun McKinley and Podcast Co-Host Joy Hensley, discuss ECHO, the 2021 Institute of Children's Ministries. They share personal highlights, behind the scenes info, and what's ahead for Children's Ministries in the coming year.
Helping Kids Deal with Depression
Depression is a common and a serious medical illness. It is real, it happens, and it is treatable. Society has put a stigma on mental illness and as the salt and light of the world we must put an end to that stigma. It is normal for children to feel sad, irritated, and have bad mood swings, but when those negative feelings linger it is possible that the child is struggling with depression. So how
Helping Kids Deal with Anxiety
Dr. Morais Cassell shares thoughts, ideas, and strategies for helping children and families confront the challenges of anxiety, biblically and thoughtfully.
Too Small to Ignore
An interview with Dr. Wess Stafford, president emeritus of Compassion International and author of Too Small to Ignore and Just a Minute.
Progressive Children’s Ministry Leader
Esther Moreno shares insights from her new book, "The Progressive Children’s Ministry Leader."
Calling Versus Assignment?
Is there a difference in calling and assignment? What happens when your calling and current assignment don't seem to align? How do we overcome challenges and struggles associated with our pursuit of calling? Listen to this month's podcast featuring an interview with Kathryn H. Creasy, executive director of Leadership Development and Discipleship Ministries for the4 Church of God of Prophecy, as we
Calling, Influence, Challenges, and Credentials: A Conversation with Joy
DLIK Training Specialist Joy Hensley is interviewed on a variety of topics, including calling, influence, challenges in CM, and pursuing credentialing.
Changing Your Spots: Identifying Blind Spots in Your Leadership and Spiritual Life
Have you ever been driving and changed lanes only to hear the horn of another vehicle blast because you almost hit someone you didn’t see? That’s what happens when you check all of your mirrors but you don’t see someone sitting in your vehicle’s “blind spot.” As leaders, we can also have spiritual and emotional “blind spots” that may be dangerous. This class will examine some Biblical leaders who
Membership Matters for Kids
The church is a loving place to belong where we learn about God's Word, fellowship with other believers, receive Christian care, and find opportunities to give and serve others in Jesus' name. As the Church of God of Prophecy (Official) prepares for "Membership Matters" month in September, how will your church engage children in this special initiative? Enjoy this panel discussion where we share a
Burned Out or Fired Up?
As leaders in children’s ministry, there are times when we feel overwhelmed and isolated, like we’re fighting this battle alone. How do we keep the discouragements from overcoming us? How do we keep from “ministering” to the point of exhaustion – physically, mentally, or both- when we sometimes “are” out there on our own! When we start to feel “burned out,” we need to get “F.I.R.E.D. U.P.” ins
From Praying to Playing
Will we give our children the opportunity to “stand before the Lord” in intercession for nations, communities, families, individuals, and those dear to them? Will we invite them to experience the authority and intimacy that comes when we come alongside the Father in intercession? This podcast provides concrete ideas and resources to help you bring your children into the throne room of intercessi
Amazing Insights from Jesus’ Ministry to Children
Studying Jesus’ teachings and interactions with children provides a powerful platform for reaching boys and girls.
Helping Kids in Crisis
The Holy Habit of Scripture Memorization
The Most Important Single Ministry in Your Church
Alan E. Nelson, national expert in young leader development, shares on the importance of developing young leaders.
Praise and Worship That Rocks
Yancy Richmond is a worship leader and songwriter for kids, traveling the globe providing family concerts and training worship leaders. She grew up a kidmin PK who knew God wanted to use her music for His glory. Her life is made even more complete in Nashville, TN with her husband, Cory, and son, Sparrow Rocket.
Recorded LIVE March 15, 2016, CM Live!
Learn more about Yancy at yancyministries.com.
Making Your Church New Family Friendly
David Rausch is the founder and president of Mooblio, a dynamic organization devoted to developing resources for children’s ministries. He is also the creator of GO!—a new, interactive curriculum designed to help kids “Join God’s Story.”
Salvation, Then What?
After a child accepts Christ into their hearts what are the next steps? How do I ignite them on a discipleship path to bring better understanding to the decision they have made and lead them to the next step of Water Baptism?
Leading a Transformational Children’s Ministry
Dr. Shelly Melia is Associate Dean and Assistant Professor of Childhood education in the Graduate School of Ministry at Dallas Baptist University. Prior to her academic career she served in churches in Oklahoma, Florida and Texas. Most recently, she served as minister to young families for eighteen years at First Baptist Church in Burleson, Texas. She is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University,
Shining His Light Through Special Events
At the age of 15 years old, Melissa Minter was called into children’s ministry by God and her mom! I believe her mother’s words were, “You’re old enough to teach this class. You can do it!” God had already placed in her heart a desire to teach children, and He began to prepare her for a life of ministry. Melissa has a B.S. degree from Lee University in Math and Science and a Master’s Degree in
How Should the Church Respond to Culture
The children in your ministry are facing greater pressure from louder voices and from more directions than ever. Many children are confused by the mixed messaged they hear everyday. The church tells them one thing, the world tells them another. As the church of Jesus Christ, what do we do when faced with a culture that is completely anti-Christian and anti-God? In this episode, Brian shares some p
Big Events, Special Days, and Traditions
Regular weekly ministries are the foundation a Children's Ministry calendar and ensures ongoing discipleship. However, a huge draw for your kids and their friends is
your ability to say “there is no such thing as a typical Sunday/Wednesday season in our Children's Ministry!" And that's why Special Events, Theme Days, and traditions are so important.
10 Conventional Ways to Stay Productive
Ryan Frank serves as the CEO of KidzMatter and a Vice President at Awana. Ryan and his wife, Beth, are also the publishers of KidzMatter Magazine. Ryan served as a children’s pastor for 15 years at the church where he came to the Lord at age five. He is the author of 9 Things They Didn’t Teach Me in College About Children’s Ministry (Standard) and Give Me Jesus (Baker). Ryan and Beth live in Conve
Equipping Parents to Raise Godly Kids
At the age of 15 years old, Melissa Minter was called into children’s ministry by God and her mom! I believe her mother’s words were, “You’re old enough to teach this class. You can do it!” God had already placed in her heart a desire to teach children, and He began to prepare her for a life of ministry. Melissa has a B.S. degree from Lee University in Math and Science and a Master’s Degree in
Sharpened to Lead
Brian has been a Kids’ Pastor since 1992. He approaches Children’s Ministry with a cutting-edge style, leading a volunteer staff of over 150 in ministering to the children at First Assembly of God in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Every week, more than 600 children gather for high-energy worship, games, and life-changing ministry from their dynamic ministry team.
In 1998, he founded High Voltage Ki
Generation Z…The Generation We Are Called to Reach and Love
Dale Hudson has co-authored several books on children’s ministry leadership and written dozens of articles for various magazines. He currently writes the “Leading Volunteers” column for Children’s Ministry Magazine. His Children’s Ministry articles are featured at www.churchleaders.com and www.cmbraintrust.com.
Dale’s passion is helping children and families discover God’s life-changing grace. He
Discipling World Changers
Passionate about the church and about kids, Melissa J. MacDonald travels extensively speaking, training, coaching, and consulting. She’s the author of Missing: An Urgent Call for the Church to Rescue Kids. She currently serves as the National Children’s Disciplemaking Specialist for the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination. With a fresh and unique perspective Melissa boldly calls the chu
Engaging Kids in Kingdom Ministry
Cindy Hunnicutt is passionate about ministry and considers it a privilege to serve the local church. She eats, breathes, and lives Children’s Ministry and loves that God would trust her to help pass faith to the next generation. She recognizes the value of engaging and equipping parents to disciple their kids.
Recorded: September 26, 2015, Institute of Children’s Ministry
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