Have you ever found yourself asking, “What could ministry look like if we truly worked together across every age and stage?” In many churches, kids and student ministries operate in silos—running strong but disconnected. But what if we intentionally bridged those gaps and created a unified approach that served the whole family? What if collaboration replaced competition, and trust shaped every decision?

In this episode, we invite you behind the scenes of Lifeway’s transition to a NextGen model—a bold move to integrate kids and student ministries in order to better serve the church and equip families. You’ll hear honest reflections, practical insights, and encouraging stories from leaders who have walked through both the challenges and the victories of building something new—together.

The team discusses what it took to reimagine structure, navigate leadership changes, and foster trust between ministries that often operate independently. Through transparency and shared experience, they talk about building a new team culture rooted in connection, communication, and shared purpose.

If this episode inspired or challenged you, would you take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast? Your feedback helps us reach and equip even more next generation ministry leaders.

Thanks for listening—and keep pressing forward in faith and unity as you lead the next generation.

SHOW LINKS:

Connect with Lifeway Kids

Connect with Lifeway Students

Connect with Next Gen Ministry

Write for Lifeway

Have you ever thought about how your childhood dreams shaped the person you are today? For many of us, the journey from our early aspirations to our current calling in ministry is filled with unexpected turns, challenges, and lessons learned. Yet, each step prepares us for the work God has set before us. In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on the importance of embracing diverse family structures in ministry. What if we could see families not just as they “should be” but as they truly are—and meet them with belonging, support, and grace?

This conversation challenges ministry leaders to broaden their perspectives on family dynamics and recognize that not all families fit the traditional mold. Dr. Melia emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of belonging for families of all kinds, particularly single-parent households and those in need. She also discusses the significance of male role models in children's and student ministry and encourages leaders to pursue further education to better serve their communities.

If this episode encouraged or challenged you, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Please take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast. Your feedback helps us reach more next-gen ministry leaders like you, and your support means the world to us. Thank you for joining us on this journey. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes, and we look forward to continuing the conversation next time!

SHOW LINKS:

ETCH Conference

Connect to Lifeway Next Gen Ministry

Have you ever paused to consider what’s really going on beneath the surface in the lives of the kids and students you serve? So often, we see behaviors that confuse or frustrate us, but behind many of those actions is a story—sometimes one marked by pain, trauma, or stress they don’t yet have the words to explain.

In this episode, Chuck Peters and Stephanie Shivers invite you to slow down and reflect on the reality that many children and youth are carrying more than we realize. The impact of trauma and toxic stress—especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic—has left a deep mark on this generation. This conversation explores the reality of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and how they affect brain development, emotional regulation, and relational connection. We discuss why ministry leaders need to approach kids with empathy and understanding, providing safe spaces where they can heal, grow, and experience the love of Christ.

As ministry leaders, we have a unique opportunity to meet them in their brokenness, offer them safe spaces, and point them toward the hope and healing found in Christ. Whether you’re a kids ministry leader, student pastor, or volunteer, this episode will equip you with insights and tools to better support the next generation in their spiritual and emotional journey. Thanks for listening!

SHOW LINKS:

ETCH Conference

Connect with Lifeway Next Gen Ministry