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You signed up for the games, the object lessons, and the excitement of reaching kids. Then came the preparation, the prayer, and the responsibility. What happens when ministry asks more of you than you expected? In this episode of Sunday School Junkie, James shares three lessons from Simon of Cyrene, the man compelled to carry Jesus’ cross: he was compelled, he carried it close, and it went home with him. Drawing on a message he shared with his teaching team, James challenges us to move from “I have to” toward “I get to,” stay close to Jesus through daily prayer, and remember that what happens in a classroom can reach a family for years to come. An encouragement for Sunday school teachers, children’s ministry volunteers, and leaders who need a fresh sense of purpose in the work they already do. CHAPTERS 00:00 SSJ introduction 00:32 A message for the teaching team 01:19 Simon in Mark 15 02:14 He was compelled 06:45 He carried it close 08:54 It went home with him 10:23 Rufus and a possible family connection 11:51 How we carry it today matters 12:12 Closing and SSJ outro SCRIPTURE REFERENCES Mark 15:21; Matthew 5:41; Romans 16:13; Luke 9:23 REFLECTION What part of your ministry has become an “I have to,” and how could prayer help you approach it again as an “I get to”? Share this episode with a Sunday school teacher or children’s ministry volunteer who needs encouragement.

There’s a space every ministry worker knows—the moment God calls… and your confidence hasn’t caught up yet. That tension? That hesitation? That “I’m not ready” feeling? You’re not alone. And more importantly—you’re not disqualified. In this episode, I dive into the very real gap between calling and confidence, unpacking: Why this gap shows up in every callingHow even lesser-known Bible figures like Ananias stepped into itThe truth about “imposter syndrome” in ministryWhy nobody starts out good—and why that’s actually the pointWhat God can do when you say yes before you feel ready Plus, this week’s Twist Game: “Ready or Called?” challenges you to rethink what readiness really looks like in Scripture. If you’ve ever hesitated, second-guessed, or felt unqualified… this one’s for you. Main Takeaways The gap between calling and confidence is normalFeeling unready does not mean you’re uncalledMost “imposter syndrome” is just being early in the processGrowth comes from stepping, not waitingGod gets the glory when we start unqualifiedPractical Steps Say yes faster than you overthink itStart small—but startDon’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middleStay consistent, even when it feels messy

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest conversations in creative and ministry spaces right now: AI. Is it a helpful tool? A threat to creativity? A shortcut? A steal? This conversation digs into the tension many people feel as artificial intelligence becomes more common in writing, teaching, content creation, and communication. We talk honestly about the hesitation people now have when they hear or see something good and immediately wonder, “Was that AI generated?” But this episode goes deeper than technology. It explores the difference between assistance and authenticity. AI may be able to help organize, generate, or polish, but it cannot replace burden, conviction, calling, or the spiritual weight behind real ministry. Whether it is teaching a Sunday school class, writing a book, or using any other creative tool, there are things that come from prayer, experience, and God-given burden that no machine can truly reproduce. If you’ve wrestled with where to draw the line, how to think about AI, or how to protect authentic creativity in a world full of generated content, this episode is for you. The growing suspicion around AI-generated contentWhy AI creates hesitation around appreciating creativityThe feeling some creators have that AI has “stolen” something from themThe difference between using a tool and replacing true burdenWhy spiritually meaningful communication cannot be fully automatedAI may be a tool, but it is not a substitute for burden, calling, creativity, or the voice God gave you.

What happens when God places something inside you that won’t let go? In this episode, we explore the life of Bezaleel—a young man called, filled, and gifted by God to build and teach. His name means “in the shadow of God,” and his story reminds us that calling isn’t about age, experience, or confidence—it’s about what God has placed within you. From passion that can’t be satisfied to purpose that must be shared, this episode challenges every listener: if God gave you a heart to teach, you won’t be able to keep it to yourself. Passion reveals what you truly love—and what you can’t get enough ofThe world chases satisfaction but never finds itGod-given purpose brings a deeper fulfillmentBezaleel was young, but he was filled, skilled, and calledTeaching isn’t just a task—it’s a calling placed in the heartWhen you teach God’s Word, you’re building a place for His presence in othersWhen you teach God’s Word, you’re building a resting place for His presence in someone’s life. If God has given you a heart to teach—don’t wait. Step into it.Stir it up.Share it. Because when you love it… you just can’t get enough.

Episode Summary Children’s ministry is one of the most meaningful callings in the church — but sometimes it feels like we’re juggling a dozen things at once. In this episode of Sunday School Junkie, Brother Booker joins the conversation to talk about the realities of balancing ministry, family, responsibilities, and the constant demands of life. Together we explore practical principles for managing the chaos, building healthy routines, and staying focused on what matters most. You’ll hear about the importance of patterns and priorities, the role of delegation in ministry, and why protecting your family and personal walk with God must always come first. The episode also includes a fun “Booker or Bogus” segment that puts some surprising ministry claims to the test. If you’ve ever felt stretched thin trying to serve well in children’s ministry, this conversation will remind you that while the juggling may be real, God can help you keep the right things in the air. Episode Chapters0:08 – Welcome to Sunday School Junkie0:50 – The Juggle Is Real3:32 – The Twist: Booker or Bogus8:15 – Juggling Chaos and Routine15:07 – Juggling Principles and Patterns25:39 – Identity and Motivation in Ministry29:14 – Family First: Balancing Life and Ministry32:02 – Taking Small Steps Toward Big Goals33:41 – Closing Thoughts and Encouragement Key TakeawaysMinistry often feels chaotic, but healthy routines help create stability. Delegation is essential for long-term ministry health. Your identity should come from God, not from ministry performance. Family must remain a priority even when ministry demands increase. Small consistent steps accomplish far more than occasional bursts of effort. Faithfulness over time matters more than perfection in the moment.

If Part 1 was the why, this episode is the how. We open cold with a powerful dramatization of creation from Childlike Media and explore a simple but weighty truth: God created with words. “Let there be light.” And there was. If His words created environments, atmosphere, culture, and momentum — and we are made in His image — what are ours creating? This episode moves from theology to practicality... We unpack how Scripture demonstrates that words matter: Words can move mountains. Words reveal the heart. Words steer direction. Words build (or break) culture. Then we dive into our most interactive TWIST yet — a live, choose-your-own-adventure game called “Last Sunday.” It’s fast, fun, and revealing. You’ll laugh… and maybe wince a little. We also share a real story about a door decorating contest that perfectly illustrates the tension between intent and impact — and why awareness matters more than perfection. The challenge is simple: If last Sunday wasn’t what you dreamed of… Let’s make last Sunday the last Sunday like that. Because words don’t just describe ministry. They shape it. The opening creation dramatization is from Childlike Media.Check out their incredible work here: 👉 www.youtube.com/@ChildlikeMedia Scriptures Referenced (KJV)In This Episode Genesis 1 (Creation account) Mark 11:23 Matthew 12:34 Matthew 15:11 James 3:5–11 Colossians 4:6 Proverbs 18:21 Proverbs 16:24 If this episode encouraged you, challenged you, or made you think differently about how you speak in ministry — share it with a fellow leader. Words matter. And so do yours.

Words feel small—but they shape everything that comes next. In this episode of Sunday School Junkie, James sits down with Chris Bradshaw to unpack a phrase many have heard him say for years: Words matter. Not as a slogan, but as a steering wheel. Together, they explore how the language we use in children’s ministry forms identity, influences behavior, and quietly becomes a child’s inner voice. From correcting behavior without damaging self-worth, to choosing phrases that call kids toward who God made them to be, this conversation is practical, honest, and deeply needed for anyone leading kids, volunteers, or teams. Along the way, they tackle the tension between discipline and dignity, growth and mess, standards and compassion—and why the order and weight of our words matter more than we realize. The episode wraps with a memorable challenge (and a witty send-off from Samantha Bradshaw) that will stick with you long after the audio ends. The Twist: Word Order Workout A fast, fun segment that proves a powerful point:Even when we don’t know the rule, we feel when word order is wrong. By comparing phrases that sound natural versus awkward, the game highlights how instinctively our brains respond to structure—and why, in ministry, the order and emphasis of our words can either confuse or clarify, wound or heal. In This Episode: Why “words matter” isn’t a cliché—it’s leadership reality Separating behavior from identity when correcting kids “If you pray for rain, expect the mud” — growth always gets messy How a few changed words can immediately change outcomes Shame language vs. honor language Why labels carry stories—and why leaders must choose words carefully Speaking life, hope, and future into kids who may not hear it anywhere else The biblical weight of words (Matthew 12, John 1) The words we speak often become the words kids believe Correction should address actions without attacking identity Language can either push people away or pull them back Leaders don’t just manage behavior—they shape futures If God creates by speaking, we should speak with care and intention Listener Challenge: What words are you sowing into the lives of the children you serve? This week, listen to yourself closely—especially in moments of correction. Choose words that keep standards high and spirits intact. Speak life on purpose. About the Guests: Chris Bradshaw is a trusted voice in Apostolic Children’s Ministry, known for his practical wisdom, clarity, and deep care for kids and leaders alike. Samantha Bradshaw closes the episode with a sharp, lighthearted reminder that proves—once again—words matter.

What if the story you’ve told a hundred times still has something new to teach you? In this episode of Sunday School Junkie, we’re joined by children’s pastor and author Eric Stender to explore the power of perspective—in Scripture, in ministry, and in everyday KidMin moments. Eric shares how a chaotic Sunday School class unexpectedly gave birth to one of his most effective teaching tools: retelling Bible stories from unexpected viewpoints. From the lion in Daniel’s den, to the thief on the Jericho road, to even the forgotten water jar at the well, Eric shows how rotating the camera doesn’t change the truth—it reveals it more clearly. Together, we talk about: ·      Why perspective makes familiar Bible storiesfeel fresh again ·       How misread behavior in kids often comes down tohunger, hurt, or hidden struggles ·       The difference between biblicalcreativity and drifting from Scripture ·       Why perfection is the enemy of progress—and whywaiting “until it’s ready” often means never starting ·       How self-publishing, collaboration, and feedbackcan unlock the resources already inside KidMin leaders This episode also introduces a fun, practical segment—the Perspective Pivot—challenging every listener to take thisweek’s lesson and retell it from a new angle. Key takeaway:You don’t lose truth by changing perspective—you often discover it. 🎯 Listener Challenge:Take one Bible story you’ve taught countless times. Rotate the camera. Tell it from a different viewpoint. Then ask your class:  “What did you notice this time that you never noticed before?”

What happens when people who’ve worked together for years finally sit in the same room for the first time? In this special bonus episode of Sunday School Junkie, recorded on New Year’s Day in Branson, Missouri, James & Kimberly Pelletier sit down in person with Jason & Kim Ashley from Growing Up With Pawpaw for an unscripted, real-time conversation about kids ministry, creativity, calling, and the surprising fulfillment that comes from investing in something bigger than yourself. This isn’t a polished interview. It’s friends talking shop — laughing, reflecting, and unpacking what they’ve learned while building curriculum, podcasts, and resources for Apostolic kids across the country. In this episode, you’ll hear about: How God connects people long before geography ever does Why the more you serve the Kingdom, the more fulfilled life becomes Building safe, Apostolic content for kids in a noisy digital world Balancing outreach and discipleship in Sunday School Why collaboration beats competition in children’s ministry The unseen ripple effect of saying “yes” to kingdom ideas If you’ve ever wondered whether your ideas matter, whether your effort is worth it, or whether you’re called to something more — this conversation will remind you why serving the Kingdom never leaves you empty. Resources mentioned: Apostolic Radio for Kids (ARK): wpfkids.org/ark Apostolic Sunday School: apostolicsundayschool.com If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone serving in kids ministry. You never know who’s one conversation away from stepping into their calling.

What if the biggest problem in kids ministry isn’t behavior—but how we interpret behavior? In this Season 2 kickoff episode of Sunday School Junkie, we dive deep into the principle of assuming positive intent—a leadership mindset that has the power to reduce conflict, strengthen teams, and radically improve how we minister to children, parents, and volunteers. The episode opens with a real-life, laugh-out-loud story about a grandmother who assumed friendliness instead of frustration—and how that simple perspective shift exposes a much bigger truth about human nature. From there, we explore: why our brains naturally assume the worst, how fatigue and past hurt distort interpretation, and why Scripture consistently points us toward seeing the heart before reacting to behavior. Using powerful biblical examples—including Hannah and Eli, Samuel and Eliab, Zacchaeus, the Samaritan woman, Mary and Martha, and Peter walking on water—we see how God responds to intent, not just action. There’s also a fun mid-episode Twist segment, honest humor imagining “What if Jesus was like us?”, and highly practical application for: handling challenging behavior in kids, leading volunteers with grace, and building a healthier, more Christlike ministry culture. If you’ve ever felt frustrated, misunderstood, or worn down in ministry—this episode will reframe how you see people and remind you why grace must always come first.

Life’s full of questions — from “Why?” to “Where’s the ketchup?” to “What in the world is God doing?” In this laugh-filled yet deeply thoughtful episode, James, Jorge, and Manny explore the power of questions — from silly ones to sacred ones. Starting with Chris Rice’s classic song Questions for Heaven, they reflect on how curiosity shapes our faith and how even God asked questions from Genesis to Revelation. You’ll hear about: The “dumbest questions” we’ve all asked (and the dad-vision vs. mom-vision debate). Why the Bible isn’t just an Answer Book — it’s full of famous questions that mirror our own. How great leaders (JFK, MLK Jr., and Jesus Himself) used questions to awaken purpose. And how David’s bold shift from “Who am I?” to “Is there not a cause?” challenges every Sunday School teacher and believer to focus on the mission — our kids. It’s part humor, part conviction, and 100% encouragement for everyone working in children’s ministry. Notable Moments 🧃 C4 and Kermit the Frog: A caffeinated detour into Chris Rice and cartoon worship songs. 🤔 Dad Vision vs. Mom Vision: The eternal “where’s the ketchup” question gets theological. 📖 The Bible’s Big Questions: From Adam and Abraham to Paul and the martyrs in Revelation. 🧠 “Sometimes the question is the answer.” 💥 David’s comeback: “Who do you think you are?” → “Is there not a cause?” TakeawayYou don’t need to have all the answers — just keep asking the right questions.When doubt whispers “Who am I?”, answer back with David’s question: “Is there not a cause?”Because there is — and that cause is our kids.

Wow! 11 of us gather round the big table and review what God did this past weekend in Union City, Tennessee... WPF Kids Hosted a Children's Ministry Conference that started off with a FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) gathering at a local elementary school where we had around 300 students attend. Then we kicked off the seminar with a powerful general session and capped off the first night with a Children's church service where 15 got the Holy Ghost! Saturday was jam packed with great sessions and Sunday we closed the weekend out with another power-packed kid's service and another 15 being filled with the Holy Ghost!

This episode was an absolute BLAST to record. Honestly, our audio leveler muted a lot of the laughter, and our editor cut out about five minutes of pure, ridiculous frivolity. Hopefully, you’ll still catch the spirit and fun that carried through the whole conversation. We’re back! One of my goals for Sunday School Junkie is that it’s not just my voice you hear every-other week. I want you to hear from all kinds of people who are out there making a difference in kids’ ministry. And this week, we got to do just that with my friend, Brother Philip Booker. Now, you’ll notice that we never actually said the phrase “Big Dreams Begin Small” during the episode—but that’s the heart of everything we talked about. From growing up in the home of an Apostolic hero (who never set out to be a hero) to building a simple website that has become a huge resource in our movement, and now expanding into podcasts, YouTube channels, curriculum, and even an audio Bible—it all started small. And that’s the lesson: big dreams don’t happen overnight. The key to running a marathon is just taking the next step—sometimes it’s as simple as making it to the next crack in the sidewalk. That’s true in running, and it’s true in the Kingdom of God. The marathon mindset applies to ministry: don’t stare at 26.2; just take the next step… even if it’s only to the next crack in the sidewalk. We also got into the idea of burnout—and here’s the takeaway: if you’re passionate about what you’re doing, burnout really isn’t an option. If your fire’s dimming, lock onto a short milestone—the next doable step—and relight the wick that’s burning toward your TNT. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why “start small” beats “wait for perfect.” How small, consistent steps snowball into big impact. Calling ≠ cloning: find your role in God’s work. A practical way to fight burnout: aim for the next tiny win.

This episode brings together Sunday School Junkie, Truism, and For Generations To Come for an unforgettable conversation with Pastor Daniel McKillop, host of Kingdom Speak and a leading voice in the Apostolic world today. Recorded in a humble nursery during camp meeting (yes—there were squeaky toys & squeaky chairs), this raw and rich dialogue dives deep into the purpose of Apostolic content creation, the danger of spiritual consumerism, and the power of grounded doctrine and praise. You'll hear why praise is rapture rehearsal, how context keeps truth from being bludgeoned, and what Pastor McKillop thinks is the most out-of-context verse used today. 🧠 Highlights: “Creators control consumers”—why Apostolics need to produce excellent content. The importance of being rooted in doctrine in the age of noise and deception. “Praise isn’t about personality”—how worship reflects your walk. A powerful explanation of Romans 8:28 in full context. “Rapture Rehearsal” — spontaneous praise as your spiritual temperature check. Favorite misused verses and the difference between fathers and instructors.

🌧️ Summary: What do gum in the carpet, stolen vans, and muddy classrooms have to do with revival? According to Bro & Sis Bradshaw—everything. In this candid and powerful Sunday Snippet, they remind us that rain is only an inconvenience to things that don’t want to grow. Ministry gets messy. But if even one soul is reached, it’s worth every inconvenience. 🔑 Key Quotes: “Rain is only an inconvenience to things that don’t want to grow.” “Time spent in the unseen always leads to fruitfulness in the unseen.” “We pray for rain, but complain about the mud.” 💬 Themes: Enduring the hidden work of ministryThe value of a single soul Revival’s messiness and beauty Embracing the rain—and the mud that comes with it