Advertise on podcast: Key Ministry the Podcast

Episode Summary In this episode of Key Ministry The Podcast, host Dr. Steve Grcevich welcomes Laura Howe, a registered social worker, trainer, and founder of Hope Made Strong. Laura shares her journey from clinical mental health social work to empowering church leaders with practical, sustainable tools for care ministry. Together, they discuss the unintended harms that can occur when churches lack clear care structures, how to prevent volunteer burnout, and why systemic frameworks are essential for both small and large congregations. Key Takeaways Laura’s Journey: How 20 years in clinical social work, peer support leadership, and her personal experience with compassion fatigue led to the creation of Hope Made Strong.Unintentional Harm in Care: The dangers of church leaders either pulling away due to insecurity or overextending beyond their level of expertise.Support for Leaders, Not Just Congregations: Why Hope Made Strong focuses on equipping care leaders, pastors, and volunteers rather than offering direct care to individuals.The Care Protocol Framework: A simple, 4-step framework for handling care needs: Receive, Respond, Report, and Follow Up.Scalable Systems for Every Church Size: How structured care processes benefit small, volunteer-led churches just as much as mega-churches.Featured Guest Laura Howe – Registered Social Worker, Founder of Hope Made Strong, and host of the annual Church Mental Health Summit.Resources Mentioned Hope Made Strong: Learn more about care leadership cohorts, templates, and administrative tools at hopemadestrong.org.Church Mental Health Summit: An annual online event taking place October 7–10, 2026. https://www.churchmentalhealthsummit.com/home  • • Key Ministry: Discover resources for disability and mental health ministry at keyministry.org.

Episode Summary In this episode of Key Ministry: The Podcast, host Dr. Steve Grcevich welcomes Dr. Jedd Medefind, long-time President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO). Jedd reflects on his journey from public policy in the White House to leading a nationwide coalition of over 300 organizations dedicated to serving vulnerable children and families. Together, they explore the core principles of building collaborative movements, the role of local churches, and the intersection of faith, technology, and mental well-being. Key Topics Covered From Public Policy to Orphan Care: Jedd shares his transitional journey from working in the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives to providing full-time leadership for CAFO.Building a Collaborative Movement: How dozens of competing organizations learned to "leave logos and egos at the door" to unite around shared core commitments for greater impact.The Role of the Local Church: Why local congregations—not just individuals or programs—are the essential environment for supporting foster and adoptive families.A Theology of Suffering: Understanding why walking alongside hurting children requires embracing complexity, pain, and long-term perseverance.Technology, Neuroscience, and Relationships: Jedd discusses his latest book on how technology impacts human flourish, mental health, relationships, and spiritual formation.Featured Guests & Leaders Mentioned Dr. Jedd Medefind: President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO), author, and former White House official.Beth & Todd Guckenberger: Co-founders of Back2Back Ministries and long-time CAFO leaders.Jason Johnson: Director of Church Ministry Initiatives at CAFO.Resource Links & References Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO)Key Ministry ResourcesDATC Tour Stops

Vacation Bible School season is here, and churches everywhere are preparing decorations, snacks, crafts, lessons, games, registrations, and all the beautiful chaos that comes with welcoming children for a week of gospel-centered ministry. But before VBS begins, there is one important question every church should ask: Is our VBS accessible for every family God has already placed in our care? Show notes at KeyMinistry.org

In this episode of Key Ministry: The Podcast, Dr. Steve Grcevich talks with Dr. Karl Benzio, Chief Psychiatric Officer at Honey Lake Clinic and Medical Director for the American Association of Christian Counselors.  Together, they discuss the intersection of mental health care, Christian community, and the local church. Dr. Benzio shares why he believes the church has a vital role to play in caring for individuals and families impacted by mental health struggles, addiction, loneliness, adversity, and suffering. Show notes at KeyMinistry.org.

What if the church has been asking the wrong question about disability? Too often, disability is presented as a picture of spiritual weakness, brokenness, or a barrier to faith. But when Jesus encounters people impacted by disability, He often does something very different. He highlights their faith, elevates their testimony, and uses their lives to strengthen the faith of others. In this episode, Dr. Chris Hulshof examines the intertwined stories of Jairus’ daughter and the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5. By studying these two miracles together, we discover how Jesus used the faith of one woman as a catalyst for another person's faith during a moment of crisis. Along the way, Chris challenges churches to consider how disability is portrayed from the pulpit, in ministry, and in congregational life. Are people with disabilities viewed primarily as ministry recipients, or are they recognized as fellow disciples whose faith can encourage, equip, and strengthen the entire body of Christ? In This EpisodeWhy the language we use about disability mattersHow disability is often portrayed as a hindrance to faithThe connection between Jairus’ daughter and the woman with the issue of bloodHow Jesus used one person's faith to strengthen another'sWhy people with disabilities can serve as catalysts for faith within the churchPractical ways churches can create opportunities for meaningful participation and leadershipQuestions every church should ask about disability inclusion Key ScripturesMark 5:21–43Matthew 9:20–22Luke 8:43–48 Key Quote"Too often disability is portrayed as a hindrance to faith rather than a catalyst for faith. Jesus shows us another way." Questions for ReflectionHow is disability typically discussed in your church?Are people with disabilities regularly visible in meaningful ministry roles?When was the last time someone's disability-informed faith encouraged your own walk with Christ?What opportunities exist in your church for individuals with disabilities to serve, lead, pray, or share their testimony? Additional Show Notes at KeyMinistry.org.

Starting a disability ministry can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to begin with a full program, a big budget, or a perfectly trained team. Sometimes, it begins with three simple conversations. In this episode of the Key Ministry Podcast, Lauren Hickman continues the Start Here series, also called the Rule of Three series, by walking through the first three conversations that can help a church begin removing barriers for families impacted by disability. Show notes at KeyMinistry.org/Podcast

This episode features a main stage message from the Disability & the Church Conference 2025, where Stephanie Hubach walks through the difference between human hope and Christian hope. Human hope is real and often motivating, but it’s uncertain and tied to circumstances that may or may not change. In disability ministry and everyday life, that kind of hope can quickly hit limits—systems fail, expectations fall short, and desired outcomes don’t always come. But Christian hope is different. It’s not wishful thinking; it’s a confident, future-oriented expectation grounded in God’s promises. At the center of that hope is the truth from Colossians: “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” She explains that our hope isn’t rooted in a plan or outcome, but in a person—Jesus Christ. Through union with Him, believers receive His benefits, are connected to His body (the Church), and experience His constant presence. This means we don’t have to strive to prove ourselves, we already belong, and we are never alone in our suffering. Because Christ is our hope, the future is secure—sin and its effects will one day be gone, and we will be fully renewed. Until then, we live with a sure and steady hope, knowing that what we’ve begun to experience now will one day be fully realized in glory. Go to Disabilityandthechurch.com to register today!

On this episode of Key Ministry the Podcast, Dr. Chris Hulshof explores a vital question for disability ministry: how do we move from curiosity to compassion? Looking at John 9 and Acts 3, Chris shows how the way we respond to disability reveals what is shaping our hearts. This conversation offers a theological and practical framework for church leaders who want to move beyond questions and toward welcome, empathy, and action.  If disability ministry is going to reflect the heart of Christ, it cannot stop at curiosity. It must grow into compassion. In this episode, Chris helps us see how the disciples’ response to a man born blind in John 9 stands in contrast to Peter and John’s response to a man lame from birth in Acts 3. The difference is not just maturity. It is what happens when people spend time with Jesus and begin to see others the way He does. Show notes at KeyMinistry.org.

In this episode of Key Ministry, the Podcast, Dr. Steve Grcevich is joined by Kimberly Britt, Executive Director of Anchor International, to talk about one of the most pressing needs in today’s church—mental health support that is both Christ-centered and practical. Kimberly shares how churches can move from uncertainty and stigma to becoming safe, supportive communities where people can talk about hard things. Drawing from her personal journey and professional experience, she unpacks how peer support, training, and simple next steps can equip everyday church members—not just professionals—to care well for those struggling with mental health challenges. Together, they explore what it looks like to build a culture of preparedness before launching programs, why confidence (not just compassion) is often the missing piece, and how churches can take meaningful steps toward mental health outreach and discipleship. If you’ve ever thought, “I know this matters… I just don’t know what to do,” this conversation will give you clarity—and a place to start. Show Notes at KeyMinistry.org

We’re excited to introduce a new voice on Key Ministry, the Podcast—Lauren Hickman. Lauren is a special education teacher and disabilities ministry leader at Tabernacle Baptist Church. Her heart is simple and clear: to help churches become places where individuals and families impacted by disability are not just accommodated, but truly welcomed and discipled. In this episode, Lauren kicks off a brand-new series focused on something many church leaders are missing—not more ideas, but clear next steps. This series will guide you through: The first steps of starting a disability ministryWhat to expect in the first three monthsAnd how a ministry grows over the first three years Because let’s be honest—disability ministry can feel overwhelming. You know it matters… but where do you start? What do you actually do first? What if you don’t have the people, budget, or experience? This series is designed to meet you right there. Each episode will help you take one step forward—practically, faithfully, and sustainably—so your church can begin removing barriers and reflecting the welcome of Christ to every family. Show notes at KeyMinistry.org

In this episode of the Key Ministry Podcast, Larah Roberts sits down with Britni Marinelli to kick off a brand new series: Disability & the Church Stories. Britni shares an incredible testimony of how God transformed a simple act of respite care into something far greater than she ever imagined. What began as caring for three autistic brothers eventually grew into a home, a family, and a monthly dinner gathering where the gospel is shared around a table of spaghetti. Listeners will hear how God used Britni’s “yes” to serve others to build a ministry that welcomes individuals with disabilities, families, and members of the community who might never step inside a traditional church. From surrendering personal plans, to trusting God for provision, to watching autistic young men preach the gospel to their peers, this story reminds us that the church often grows in the simplest places — like around a dinner table. For episode show notes go to KeyMinistry.org.

What does it look like to care with intentionality? Job’s friends are a fascinating contrast. At first, they do almost everything right. They show up. They stay. They sit in the dirt. And then, later in the book, they say almost everything wrong. This episode focuses on what they did in those first moments of suffering—and how their actions give us a surprisingly clear framework for how to care well when someone is in pain. Visit KeyMinistry.org/Podcast for show notes.

What does faithful discipleship look like when a teen struggles with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, anxiety, or other hidden disabilities? In this episode of the Key Ministry Podcast, Dr. Steve Grcevich is joined by Dr. Brian Barrineau, Pastor of Family Ministries at Fruit Cove Baptist Church, for a practical and deeply encouraging conversation about discipling teens with learning differences. Hidden disabilities are often misunderstood. They aren’t always visible. They don’t always come with clear labels. And yet, they profoundly shape how teens experience church, school, relationships, and their own identity. Together, Steve and Brian explore how churches and families can move beyond fear and into faithful, intentional inclusion. This episode will help you think more clearly about: • Why hidden disabilities require intentional discipleship pathways • The overlap between neurodivergence and mental health struggles • How Deuteronomy 6 applies to families raising neurodivergent teens • What churches can do when volunteers feel intimidated or unprepared • Why belonging matters more than perfection in ministry • When pastoral care should involve professional mental health support Dr. Barrineau brings a unique perspective as a former high school teacher, pastor, researcher, and parent of a child with learning differences. His insights bridge the classroom and the church — helping leaders and families navigate both environments with wisdom. One of the most powerful reminders from this conversation: “If that family feels seen, known, and loved, the rest can be figured out.” Churches don’t have to get everything right to begin. But they do have to communicate welcome. If you’re a church leader, youth pastor, volunteer, or parent seeking to disciple a teen with hidden disabilities, this episode offers both theological grounding and practical encouragement. Resources Mentioned • Deuteronomy 6 • Individual Spiritual Plans • IEPs and 504 Plans • Child Find early intervention services • Theory of Mind research About Our Guest Dr. Brian Barrineau serves as Pastor of Family Ministries at Fruit Cove Baptist Church in St. Johns, Florida. He holds a doctorate in education and is passionate about equipping churches to disciple students with learning differences in ways that are both biblically faithful and developmentally wise.

In many churches, grandparents are the ones bringing their grandkids to church—often stepping in as caregivers, spiritual anchors, and advocates, especially when disability is part of the story. In this episode, Sandra Peoples is joined by David Armijo, Special Needs Ministry Director at Champion Forest Baptist Church, to talk honestly about what churches need to understand when grandparents are the primary connection point. From communication gaps and generational differences to stigma, fatigue, and fear of “labeling,” this conversation names the real challenges—and the real opportunities. You’ll hear why disability ministry is not about punishment or behavior management, but discipleship. You’ll also learn practical ways churches can support grandparents, include them in spiritual development conversations, and honor the legacy they’re trying to leave with the time they have. This episode is especially helpful for church leaders, ministry volunteers, and anyone serving families where grandparents are carrying more than most people realize. Visit KeyMinistry.org/Podcast for show notes.

A single letter forced one pastor to confront what his church wasn’t ready for—and what God was calling him to lead. Pastor Jonathan shares his journey from awareness to conviction to action, offering an honest look at leadership, humility, and the slow work of cultural change in the local church. Visit https://disabilityandthechurch.com/ to register.