Advertise on podcast: Kids Ministry Calling with Jana Magruder

What happens when biblical literacy declines, and how can the church help the next generation build a strong foundation of truth? In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana Magruder sits down with Jeff and Jen Wilkin to explore the critical state of biblical literacy among evangelicals and why teaching theology to children matters now more than ever. They discuss the importance of giving kids a strong foundation in Scripture and helping them understand not only what the Bible says, but what it teaches us about God. In a world shaped by rapid technological change and endless access to information, kids need more than Bible knowledge. They need a robust understanding of Scripture that helps them recognize truth, develop a biblical worldview, and grow in their relationship with Christ. Jeff and Jen share practical wisdom for kids ministry leaders who want to move beyond simply teaching Bible stories and begin intentionally building theological foundations that can shape a child’s faith for a lifetime. Discipleship starts with helping kids know who God is and what He has revealed about Himself through His Word. The foundation we build today can shape how the next generation understands their faith for years to come. SHOW LINKS:  State of Theology Report  Levels of Biblical Learning Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

Music has a unique way of helping truth take root in the hearts and minds of kids. A song can teach theology, reinforce Scripture, create meaningful moments of worship, and stay with a child long after they leave church. In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana Magruder sits down with VBS songwriters Paul Marino and Jeremy Johnson to explore the power of music in spiritual formation and kids ministry. They share their journeys as songwriters, the creative process behind writing music for children, and some of their favorite projects along the way. Together, they discuss what it takes to create songs that are more than catchy. Great kids ministry music can be both engaging and deeply rooted in biblical truth, helping children understand who God is and what it means to follow Jesus. Paul and Jeremy also share why theology matters in songwriting and how creativity can serve the mission of helping kids know and love God’s Word. Music isn’t simply something we add to a kids ministry program. When it’s grounded in truth and created with purpose, it can become a powerful tool for discipleship, helping kids sing, remember, understand, and live out the truth of the gospel. SHOW LINKS: Lifeway VBS Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

Generation Alpha is growing up in a world unlike any generation before them. From artificial intelligence to constant digital connection, today's kids are being shaped by technology in ways that present both incredible opportunities and significant discipleship challenges. In this special crossover episode, Chuck Peters from the ETCH Next Gen Podcast joins Jana Magruder from Kids Ministry Calling for a timely conversation about understanding and discipling Generation Alpha. Along with Dr. Shelly Melia and Shane Pruitt, they explore what makes this generation unique, how technology and AI are influencing their worldview, and how churches and families can faithfully prepare them to follow Jesus in an increasingly complex culture. Whether you're serving in kids ministry, student ministry, or leading your family at home, this episode offers practical insights to help you engage Generation Alpha with intentionality, biblical truth, and relational discipleship. As the first generation to grow up with AI woven into everyday life, Generation Alpha needs leaders who understand both their world and the unchanging truth of the gospel. This conversation will encourage and equip you to disciple the next generation with confidence and hope. Subscribe to the ETCH Next Gen Podcast and Kids Ministry Calling for more conversations that help church leaders and parents disciple the next generation with biblical wisdom, practical ministry insights, and gospel-centered encouragement. SHOW LINKS:  Reaching Gen Alpha by Dr. Shelly Melia and Shane Pruitt  Kids Ministry Calling Podcast with Jana Magruder  Register for ETCH Conference 2026 Connect with Lifeway Next Gen Ministry  Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

Missions isn’t simply a topic we teach during VBS or highlight once a year. It’s an essential part of helping kids understand God’s heart for the world and their role in His mission. In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana Magruder sits down with Dr. Paul Chitwood, president of the International Mission Board, to talk about integrating missions education into discipleship in kids ministry. Together, they explore how kids can begin developing a biblical understanding of missions from an early age and how leaders can make missions a natural part of the way they teach and disciple kids. When children learn that God’s story extends far beyond their church, community, and culture, they begin to see the world differently. Missions education can help kids develop compassion for people, a heart for the nations, and a desire to participate in God’s work. The goal of kids ministry isn’t simply to help children know more about the Bible. It’s to help them know Jesus and understand what it means to follow Him. And that includes helping them see the world through God’s eyes and live with a heart for the nations. SHOW LINKS: State of Theology Report  Lifeway VBS  International Mission Board  FUGE Camps  Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

What happens when biblical literacy declines, and what can the church do about it? In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, we take a closer look at the current state of discipleship and biblical literacy in the church through the lens of recent research. Scott McConnell shares insights into what people believe about God, Scripture, and faith, and why these findings matter for churches, families, and those who are discipling the next generation. Biblical truth shapes more than what we know. It shapes how we understand God, how we live, and how we follow Jesus. That makes intentional discipleship from an early age more important than ever. Together, we explore what the research reveals and consider practical ways church leaders can respond by building stronger foundations of biblical truth and creating a culture where kids are equipped to know God and grow in their faith. If we want the next generation to develop a lasting faith, we have to help them know what they believe and why they believe it. This conversation offers important insight and encouragement for every leader committed to helping kids know and follow Jesus. SHOW LINKS:  Levels of Biblical Learning Disciples Path  State of Theology Report Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

What does it really look like to disciple kids in a changing world? This season on Kids Ministry Calling, we’re breaking down discipleship in kids ministry! We’re kicking off the season with Scott McConnell and the State of Theology, exploring what today’s research reveals about biblical beliefs and what it means for the way we disciple the next generation. Then, you’ll hear timeless truths from Jeff and Jen Wilkin, insights on reaching Gen Alpha from Shane Pruitt and Dr. Shelly Melia, a conversation with Raechel Myers from She Reads Truth, and so many more voices who are helping the church faithfully point kids to Jesus. From biblical literacy and theology to discipleship, family partnership, and reaching the next generation, we’re asking important questions and looking for practical ways to help kids know God, love His Word, and follow Jesus. This season, let’s go deeper into what it means to disciple kids well. Join us for a new season of Kids Ministry Calling. SHOW LINKS:  State of Theology Report Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

Kids may remember the games, the lessons, and the events—but they'll never forget the people who made them feel like they belonged. In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana sits down with Mark Dance to talk about one of the most powerful tools in children's ministry: relationships. Together, they explore why belonging is essential to discipleship and how every church leader—from the senior pastor to the kids ministry volunteer—plays a role in helping children and families feel seen, known, and loved. Mark shares practical wisdom on creating a church culture where relationships are intentional, pastors are present in the lives of children, and families experience genuine connection. The conversation also reflects on the lasting impact of childhood church experiences and why investing in the next generation is one of the greatest opportunities the church has. Think about one child or family in your ministry who could use a deeper connection. This week, take one intentional step—a conversation, a handwritten note, a prayer, or simply learning a name. Small moments of connection can have an eternal impact. Because at the heart of every healthy kids ministry is a simple truth: children grow best in a community where they know they belong, are deeply loved, and are consistently pointed to Jesus. SHOW LINKS:  Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

The stories we place in a child's hands have the power to shape the truths they carry in their heart. In this special episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana spotlights two incredible children's authors whose books deserve a place on every kids ministry bookshelf and in every family's home. First, Blaire Linne shares the heart behind Yara the Brave, a beautifully written story that helps children understand anxiety, process worry, and discover the peace that comes from trusting God. Drawing from her own journey through anxiety, Blaire offers practical encouragement for ministry leaders and parents who want to help kids navigate big emotions with biblical truth. Then, Kyle Worley joins the conversation to introduce The Dragon Slayer and His Super Special Suit, an imaginative retelling of the gospel that weaves together the story of redemption and the armor of God. Kyle explains why storytelling and imagination are powerful discipleship tools and how theology can come alive for children through memorable stories. Whether you're building your ministry library, looking for resources to recommend to parents, or searching for meaningful gifts for kids, this episode will introduce you to two books that help children grow in both faith and understanding. SHOW LINKS: Yara the Brave and the Swirling Worry   The Dragon Slayer and His Super Special Suit  Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

SHOW LINKS:  Hyfi Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

Some of the biggest moments in a child's faith journey begin long before they can read a Bible on their own. In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, we're continuing our Summer Dreamin' series by dreaming about one of the most foundational ministries in the church—preschool ministry. Jana is joined by Todd Villemont and Renee Blaine, two passionate preschool ministry leaders who share why these earliest years are some of the most influential in a child's spiritual development. Together, they discuss how churches can create environments where preschoolers experience God's love, begin building biblical foundations, and develop a sense of belonging that lasts for years to come. This week, take a fresh look at your preschool ministry through the eyes of a first-time family. Ask yourself, "What would help this child and their parents feel known, welcomed, and connected to Jesus?" Then make one intentional change that creates a stronger first impression and a deeper opportunity for discipleship. Because when we dream bigger about preschool ministry, we're investing in the very first chapters of a child's faith story—and those chapters matter more than we often realize. SHOW LINKS:  Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

The best holiday ministry moments don't happen in December—they begin with intentional planning long before the season arrives. In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, we're continuing our Summer Dreamin' series by looking ahead to the holidays and exploring how churches can create meaningful experiences that go beyond events and help families grow in their faith together. This conversation is packed with practical ideas for planning Christmas, Easter, and more with purpose. You'll hear creative ways to engage families, equip parents, and create opportunities for discipleship that extend beyond your church walls. From prayer resources and family worship to community outreach and memorable events, you'll walk away with fresh inspiration for your ministry calendar. Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that holiday ministry isn't just about filling the schedule—it's about creating moments that point kids and families to Jesus. Choose one upcoming holiday and ask this question: "How can we help families continue this experience after they leave our church?" Then create one simple resource, conversation starter, or prayer guide that encourages discipleship at home. Because when we plan holidays with intentionality, we're not just creating great events—we're creating opportunities for kids and families to experience the hope of the gospel together. SHOW LINKS:  Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

What if worship became more than just the singing portion of your kids ministry? In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana sits down with Kirk Kirkland, Director of Worship at Lifeway, to explore how churches can help kids understand that worship is far more than music—it's a lifelong response to who God is. Kirk shares practical ways to create meaningful worship experiences for children by incorporating Scripture, prayer, and community alongside music. He also offers wisdom on choosing biblically sound songs, leading kids with intention, and helping them understand why they worship—not just how. This week, take a fresh look at your worship time. Ask yourself, "What are we teaching kids about worship beyond the music?" Look for one intentional way to incorporate Scripture, prayer, or a moment of reflection that helps children understand worship as a response to God's character and His love. Because when we teach kids why we worship, we're equipping them with a foundation that can shape their relationship with God for years to come. SHOW LINKS:  Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

What could happen if your senior pastor and kids ministry leader were fully aligned around one mission? In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, we're continuing our Summer Dreamin' series by dreaming about one of the most influential relationships in the church—the partnership between the senior pastor and the kids minister. Jana is joined by Senior Pastor Jay Hardwick and Kids Ministry Melissa Whitworth for an honest conversation about what it takes to build trust, collaboration, and a shared vision for reaching the next generation. They unpack practical ways pastors can champion children's ministry, how kids ministry leaders can strengthen relationships with church leadership, and why unity at the leadership level creates healthier ministry for everyone. You'll also hear why creating a culture where kids are known, valued, and belong starts long before they enter a classroom—it starts with a church that believes children matter. Whether you're a kids minister hoping to build a stronger relationship with your pastor or a church leader looking to better support your next generation team, this episode offers practical wisdom and plenty of encouragement. Take one intentional step this week to strengthen your partnership with your senior pastor or ministry leadership. Schedule a conversation, share a win from your ministry, ask how you can better support one another, or spend time praying together for the next generation. Because when church leaders dream together, serve together, and champion the same mission, kids and families experience a church where they truly belong—and where the gospel is passed faithfully to the next generation. SHOW LINKS: Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

The greatest gift we can give kids isn't a great program—it's a clear picture of Jesus. In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana sits down with Aaron Wilson, team leader for The Gospel Project at Lifeway, to talk about what it truly means to keep the gospel at the center of children's ministry. Aaron unpacks what the gospel is, why it's more than just the message of salvation, and how every Bible story ultimately points to Jesus. He shares practical ways to consistently teach the gospel in age-appropriate ways and challenges ministry leaders to evaluate whether Jesus is truly at the center of everything they do. The conversation also takes a personal turn as Aaron shares his calling story and offers encouragement to leaders who may be tempted to find their identity in ministry success rather than in Christ. Whether you're teaching preschoolers, leading elementary kids, or equipping volunteers, this episode is a timely reminder that when Jesus is the focus, everything else finds its proper place. When the gospel becomes the foundation—not just a lesson we teach, but the lens through which we lead—we don't just create better ministry. We help kids discover the life-changing hope of Jesus. SHOW LINKS:  The Gospel Project  Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026

What if the greatest impact of your kids ministry didn't happen in your classrooms—but in your families' living rooms? In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, we're continuing our Summer Dreamin' series with a conversation that challenges kids ministry leaders to think beyond Sunday mornings. Tristan Meza shares her passion for equipping parents to embrace their God-given role as the primary disciplers of their children and offers practical ways churches can partner with families for lasting spiritual impact. Together, Jana and Tristan explore what it looks like to dream intentionally about family discipleship, helping parents see that faith isn't confined to church programs—it can be woven into the everyday moments of life. If you've been wondering how your ministry can move from simply serving families to truly equipping them, this conversation is full of practical encouragement and fresh vision. This week, identify one simple way your ministry can encourage parents outside of Sunday morning. Whether it's a conversation, a text message, a take-home resource, or a prayer guide, look for one practical step that empowers families to continue discipleship at home. Because the goal of kids ministry isn't simply to create great church experiences—it's to help families build a faith that lasts long after they leave the church building. SHOW LINKS: Check out Lifeway Kids Curriculum Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback! Join us at ETCH 2026