Kids Ministry Calling with Jana Magruder

Lifeway Podcasts
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Kids Ministry Calling with Jana Magruder

The Kids Ministry Calling Podcast is designed to inspire and equip kids ministry leaders in every season of their journey! Join us as we dive into heartfelt discussions, practical tips, and uplifting stories that remind you of the incredible calling God has placed on your life. Tune in to be reminded of your purpose, share in the joys and struggles of ministry, and find renewed strength in your calling. Together, we can remember to have joy in our calling! 

  1. 1D AGO

    From Questions to Commitment: Supporting Kids Through Faith Decisions with Danielle Bell and Jeremy Carroll

    We’re so excited to continue our summer series, Milestones. We're focusing on the key spiritual moments that shape a child’s faith. These milestones aren’t just checkboxes; they’re opportunities for deep connection, discipleship, and celebration within the church and at home. In this powerful episode, Jeremy Carroll and Danielle Bell explore the importance of celebrating and supporting spiritual milestones in children’s lives. They discuss how the church can better partner with families during key moments like baptism and the Lord’s Supper by equipping parents with gospel-centered resources, conversation guides, and follow-up tools. The episode emphasizes the value of building relationships, using curriculum that reinforces faith, and creating church-wide celebrations that affirm a child’s spiritual growth. From workbooks to one-on-one discipleship, this episode provides practical ways to engage both kids and their parents in meaningful faith conversations that leave a lasting impact. If today’s conversation helped you think differently or sparked new ideas for your ministry, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more leaders like you find us and join in the mission. And don’t forget to share this episode with your ministry team or a parent you know—it could open the door to their next faith conversation. Thanks for joining us—we can’t wait to continue this series with you all summer long! SHOW LINKS:  Hyfi Ministry Three Circles  The Gospel: God's Plan for Me The ABC's of Becoming a Christian Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

    39 min

  2. JUN 12

    26. PreK graduation to Kindergarten with Delanee Williams and Kimba Campbell

    We’re thrilled to be in our brand-new series, Milestones, a month-long journey designed to help ministry leaders and parents celebrate and support the spiritual milestones that shape a child’s faith journey. In this second episode, we’re diving into one of the most foundational stages: the preschool years. Join preschool ministry experts Delanee and Kimba as they unpack the key transitions that happen in early childhood—moving from nursery to preschool, and eventually to “big church.” Through engaging stories and practical advice, they remind us that spiritual growth is just as essential as physical and emotional development. Whether you’re a kids ministry leader or a parent, this conversation will help you walk alongside families with intentionality and grace during these early, formative years.  If this episode encouraged you or gave you practical next steps for your ministry or parenting, we’d love for you to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps others discover the podcast and join in the journey. And be sure to share this episode with fellow leaders, volunteers, or parents who are navigating the preschool season. SHOW LINKS: Ages and Stages Levels of Biblical Learning  Bible Studies for Life Flip the Script Bible Skills for Kids Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

    39 min

  3. JUN 5

    25. Creating Lasting Impact with Parent-Child Dedications in Kids Ministry with Delanee Williams and Kimba Campbell

    Hey friends! We’re kicking off a brand-new season with something truly special: the Milestone Series for this summer! Over the next few months, we’ll dive into some of the most significant moments in a child’s spiritual journey and how the church can walk alongside families every step of the way. In this first episode, we’re starting where it all begins—preschool ministry and parent-child dedication. In this kickoff episode of the Milestone Series, the we'll dive into the powerful ministry of preschool years and the importance of parent-child dedications in the life of the church. Kimba Campbell and Delanee Williams unpack the heart behind these special moments, offering practical tips on how to structure dedication ceremonies, prepare parents, and follow up in meaningful ways. With heartfelt personal stories and ministry insights, this episode highlights how the church can create lasting impact by coming alongside families from the very start of their faith journey. It’s a conversation full of wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder that even the earliest years in a child’s life matter deeply in God’s bigger story. If this episode encouraged you or gave you fresh ideas for your ministry, would you take a moment to rate and review the podcast? Your support helps others discover the show and grow in their own ministry journeys. And be sure to share this episode with a friend or teammate in children’s ministry—especially someone preparing for parent-child dedications. We can’t wait to walk through these milestones together this summer. Let’s keep leading with purpose and pointing families to Jesus! SHOW LINKS: Ages and Stages Levels of Biblical Learning  Bible Studies for Life Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

    39 min

  4. APR 24

    24. What I Wish My Senior Pastor Knew with Ben Mandrell

    Every year, children’s pastors from across the country gather for the Children’s Pastors Conference—a time to grow, connect, and be reminded of the incredible calling to reach the next generation. This year, our producer Nikki Ogden walked the halls with one question in mind: “What’s the one thing you wish your senior pastor knew about your ministry?” The answers were honest, heartfelt, and deeply insightful.  In this episode, we’re joined by Ben Mandrell, president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources—and a former senior pastor himself—to explore that very question from the other side of the conversation. Ben offers a powerful perspective on how senior leaders can champion children’s ministry in meaningful ways, showing up with presence, purpose, and passion. If you’ve ever longed for stronger support from your church leadership—or wondered how to build that bridge—this episode is for you. If this episode encouraged you or gave you a new perspective on the role of leadership in kids ministry, we’d love for you to take a moment to rate and review the podcast. Your feedback helps us reach more ministry leaders and make a greater impact. And don’t forget to share this episode with your pastor, leadership team, or anyone passionate about seeing children’s ministry thrive. Thanks for listening—and keep showing up for the next generation with purpose and heart. SHOW LINKS: Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

    33 min

  5. APR 17

    23. Teaching Kids Theology: Mary Wiley on Helping Children Know God Deeply

    What if teaching theology to children wasn’t as intimidating as it sounds? What if, instead, it was one of the most natural and essential parts of shaping a child’s faith? In this episode, Mary Wiley joins us to unpack the idea that theology is simply learning about God—and that kids are not only capable of learning it, but eager to! With warmth and wisdom, Mary shares how parents and ministry leaders can make big truths about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the church both accessible and engaging for young hearts.  In this episode, Mary Wiley dives into the heart of why teaching theology to children matters deeply. She reminds us that theology is simply learning about who God is—and that every child deserves to know Him personally and deeply. Mary offers practical tools, insights, and encouragement for both parents and ministry leaders as they teach kids about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the church. With a focus on making theology engaging and understandable, she shows how we can help children build a strong foundation of faith that lasts.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about helping the next generation grow in their understanding of and love for God. If this episode gave you fresh ideas or encouraged you in your role as a parent or leader, we’d love for you to take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach even more people who are passionate about discipling the next generation. And don’t forget to share this episode with a friend, ministry partner, or fellow parent who’s walking the same journey. Let’s keep growing together as we teach kids the beautiful truths about who God is! SHOW LINKS: Everyday Theology Ages and Stages Big Picture Questions and Answers Bible Skills for Kids Our Highest Good Discovering the Bible Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

    50 min
  6. 22. Parenting and Grandparenting with a Generational Vision with Janie Ortlund

    APR 9

    22. Parenting and Grandparenting with a Generational Vision with Janie Ortlund

    What does it mean to leave a lasting spiritual legacy? In a world filled with challenges and distractions, how can parents and grandparents intentionally invest in the faith of the next generation? In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Janie Ortlund, an author and passionate advocate for generational faith.  Drawing from her book To the Tenth Generation, Janie shares her heart for passing down faith through practical traditions, intentional parenting, and a deep reliance on God’s promises. She reminds us that it’s never too late to influence our children and grandchildren for Christ, no matter what stage of life we’re in. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or ministry leader, this conversation will inspire you to think about your spiritual legacy and how to build a foundation of faith that endures for generations to come. We’re so grateful you joined us and would love for you to share this episode with parents, grandparents, or anyone who desires to pass down their faith to future generations. Thanks for listening, and keep building a legacy of faith that will impact generations to come! SHOW LINKS:  To the Tenth Generation Connect with Janie Ortlund Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

    28 min

  7. APR 3

    21. Old Space, New Perspective with Lynley Mandrell

    Have you ever walked into a church space and immediately felt overwhelmed? The environments we create for kids and families can make a powerful first impression, and they play a big role in how people experience church. In this episode, we welcome back Lynley Mandrell to dive into the importance of thoughtfully designed spaces in children’s ministry.  Lynley shares her passion for creating environments that are both inviting and functional, offering practical tips for evaluating, updating, and organizing ministry spaces. From balancing thematic decor with neutral elements to making signage clear and welcoming, Lynley highlights how intentional design can enhance hospitality and outreach. Plus, she emphasizes the value of involving the community in renovation projects, making the process collaborative and meaningful.  Whether your church is looking to refresh a room or completely overhaul your kids’ ministry area, this episode is packed with insights to help you create a space where families feel at home! If you found today’s episode helpful, we’d love for you to take a moment to rate and review the podcast. Your feedback helps us reach more leaders who are passionate about making a difference in children’s ministry. And don’t forget to share this episode with your team or anyone involved in creating ministry environments—they’ll thank you for it! Thanks for listening, and keep making your space a welcoming place for families to grow in faith. SHOW LINKS:  Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

    38 min

  8. MAR 27

    20. Making Bible Truths Stick with Joel Evrist

    How do we take deep, biblical truths and make them come alive for kids in a way that sticks? In this episode, Jana Magruder tackles this topic with Joel Evrist, a passionate kids ministry leader who knows how to bring God’s Word to life through humor, real-life applications, and music. Joel shares his journey in children’s ministry and the heart behind his work on the Explore the Bible series, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at how to simplify complex theological concepts in ways kids can truly grasp. Along the way, he reflects on favorite teaching moments, emotional experiences in ministry, and the powerful ways God moves in the lives of children. Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas, encouragement, or practical resources to enhance your kids ministry, this conversation is full of wisdom and inspiration! We’re so glad you joined us for this fun and insightful conversation! If this episode encouraged you or gave you new ideas for your ministry, we’d love for you to take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps more leaders discover these conversations. And don’t forget to share this episode with a friend or fellow kids ministry leader who would benefit from Joel’s wisdom and experience. Thanks for listening, and keep sharing the joy of God’s Word with the next generation! SHOW LINKS: Explore the Bible Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

    41 min
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4.8
out of 5
93 Ratings

About

The Kids Ministry Calling Podcast is designed to inspire and equip kids ministry leaders in every season of their journey! Join us as we dive into heartfelt discussions, practical tips, and uplifting stories that remind you of the incredible calling God has placed on your life. Tune in to be reminded of your purpose, share in the joys and struggles of ministry, and find renewed strength in your calling. Together, we can remember to have joy in our calling! 

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