Have you ever wondered if the Bible you’re handing to a child is the right fit for them? As kids grow and develop, so do their needs when it comes to engaging with God’s Word. 

In this episode, we’re joined by Mary Wiley for an eye-opening conversation about choosing age-appropriate Bibles that truly connect with kids at every stage of their spiritual journey. Mary brings her deep passion for biblical literacy and her ministry experience to the table as she walks us through how to select Bibles that are not only theologically sound but also accessible, engaging, and tailored to a child’s developmental needs.  

Mary shares her personal calling story and why fostering a love for God’s Word in children is one of the most important things we can do. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or ministry leader, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about the Bibles you place in kids’ hands.

We’re so glad you joined us for this important conversation with Mary Wiley! If today’s episode gave you new insight or encouragement, we’d be so grateful if you’d take a minute to rate and review the podcast. Your support helps more ministry leaders and parents discover these conversations that equip them to make a difference. And don’t forget to share this episode with a friend or teammate who’s passionate about helping kids grow in their love for God’s Word. 

Thanks for listening—we’ll see you next time!

SHOW NOTES:

It's All About Jesus Bible Storybook

Read to Me Bible

Grace Bible

Explorer Bible 

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One of the greatest gifts we can give children is a deep love for God’s Word. But how do we help them not just hear Bible stories, but truly engage with Scripture and develop lasting Bible skills? In this episode, we’re joined by Emily Jennings to talk about the importance of biblical literacy in kids ministry. 

From preschoolers to preteens, every child can begin building a strong foundation in God’s Word—one that will carry them through a lifetime of faith. Emily shares her passion for equipping kids with essential Bible skills, practical strategies for making Scripture come alive, and how parents and ministry leaders can work together to cultivate a love for God’s Word in the next generation. If you’re looking for ways to make Bible learning fun, meaningful, and impactful, this conversation is for you!

We hope this episode has encouraged and equipped you in your ministry to kids! If you found this conversation helpful, would you take a moment to rate and review the podcast? Your feedback helps others discover this resource and continue growing in their calling. And don’t forget to share this episode with fellow ministry leaders and parents who are passionate about helping kids grow in biblical literacy!

SHOW LINKS: 

Explore the Bible Kids

Explorer Bible 

Wholly Kids: Guiding Kids To A Life In Christ

Books of the Bible Flash Cards

Nothing Less

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Many churches hesitate to host VBS because they feel they don’t have enough volunteers. But what if we told you that this shouldn't be the obstacle stopping you? What if we told you we have strategies that can help you engage your church and build a strong, committed volunteer team? In this episode, Melita Thomas shares her top tips for recruiting and retaining volunteers, ensuring a meaningful VBS experience that will impact not only your church, but your entire community.

From the foundational role of prayer to the importance of personal asks, Melita Thomas and Jana Magruder break down essential strategies that will help you build a strong volunteer team. Learn how clear planning, effective communication, and equipping your volunteers for success can lead to a meaningful VBS experience. With these practical tips, you’ll be prepared to engage and appreciate your volunteers, ensuring that VBS becomes a powerful tool for reaching children with the gospel.

Lifeway VBS Curriculum is the perfect companion to your volunteer recruitment efforts. With clear planning tools, resources for equipping your team, and a focus on impactful ministry, Lifeway provides everything you need to create a VBS experience that will empower your volunteers and transform the lives of children!

SHOW LINKS:
VBS Digital Catalog
VBS Directors Club   
VBS Free Sample
VBS Preview Digital Pass  

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How can your VBS reach and engage the next generations effectively? What strategies will help you create a welcoming environment that connects with both Gen Z and Gen Alpha? In this episode, we explore how to plan for VBS 2025 using the FLIP strategy to build relationships, empower leaders, and create lasting impact for children.

From understanding the unique needs of Gen Z and Gen Alpha to empowering teenagers as influencers, this conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment where kids can thrive. Discover why pastors should play an active role in VBS and how meeting both physical and emotional needs will foster engagement, retention, and lasting impact.

From fostering meaningful friendships to equipping leaders and involving the community, Lifeway VBS provides everything to create an engaging, relational, and impactful experience for all ages!

SHOW LINKS:
VBS Digital Catalog
VBS Directors Club   
VBS Free Sample
VBS Preview Digital Pass 
Flip the Script

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Are you ready to take your VBS planning to the next level? What questions should you ask before ordering your materials to ensure a successful and stress-free event? In this episode, Melita Thomas reveals the key considerations for selecting the right curriculum and organizing a VBS that will engage and impact kids.

From determining age groups and planning for attendance to utilizing community and digital resources, this conversation offers a roadmap for a successful and stress-free VBS. With practical advice on leveraging the Director's Kit and fostering effective volunteer communication, you’ll be equipped to create an impactful VBS experience that leaves a lasting impression on kids and families alike.

With Lifeway VBS Curriculum, you’ll find everything you need to create a seamless, impactful VBS experience. From budgeting to resource management and volunteer coordination, Lifeway’s comprehensive materials and tools are designed to help your ministry thrive and leave a lasting impact on children and families. Check out the show links below for everything you need!

SHOW LINKS:
VBS Digital Catalog

VBS Directors Club    

VBS Free Sample 

VBS Preview Digital Pass  

Connect with Lifeway Kids

Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

What makes a Vacation Bible School truly impactful? Is it the theme, the activities, or something deeper? Join us as we uncover the distinctives that take VBS from just an event to a life-changing ministry for kids, families, and your entire church.

VBS expert Melita Thomas shares what every kids ministry leader should prioritize when selecting a Vacation Bible School curriculum. From ensuring biblical saturation to fostering community connections, she unpacks what truly makes a VBS impactful. Learn why flexibility in curriculum design matters, how excellence in execution transforms the experience, and why VBS is more than just a summer event—it’s a powerful outreach and discipleship tool. Discover how intentional planning, quality resources, and involving your entire church can leave a lasting spiritual legacy in the lives of children and their families.

When it comes to Vacation Bible School, you want a curriculum that’s biblically rich, flexible, and designed for excellence—and that’s exactly what Lifeway VBS delivers. With trustworthy resources, a focus on community connection, and tools that equip your entire church to make a lasting impact, Lifeway VBS stands out as the best choice for creating meaningful, life-changing experiences for kids and families.

Check out the show links below and get ready to make a huge impact on the community God has entrusted you with!

SHOW LINKS:  
VBS Digital Catalog

VBS Directors Club    

VBS Free Sample 

VBS Preview Digital Pass  

Connect with Lifeway Kids

Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Happy New Year friends!! As we enter this fresh season, we want to take a moment to reflect on all that we've accomplished in the previous season and look ahead to the exciting opportunities in the season to come!

Last season, we had the privilege of sharing incredible stories from fellow ministry leaders, diving deep into the strategies that help leaders answer their calling, no matter what hat they are wearing! From exploring creative ways to put people around you with different strengths, to highlighting the importance of building strong systems and self-awareness, it’s been a season of learning, growing, and being inspired together.

In the next season, we’re even more excited to share expert advice, and heartening testimonies that will help you thrive in your ministry. We’ll be diving into topics like leadership development, navigating challenges in kids ministry, creative approaches to biblical teaching, and new great topics that can be used to equip your parents in the discipleship of their children! We also can’t wait to feature more voices from the kids ministry community to inspire and equip you for the season ahead!

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. We’re excited to continue walking alongside you as you serve in the incredible calling of leading kids to know and love Jesus. Stay tuned for an amazing season ahead!

SHOW LINKS:

Connect with Lifeway Kids

Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

It’s a Wrap on an Incredible Season! 

Join us for an exciting and heartfelt finale to this season of Kids Ministry Calling Podcast! In this special Q&A episode, we’re diving into YOUR questions straight from the floor of the ETCH Conference. From navigating challenging ministry moments to celebrating big wins in kids ministry, this episode is jam-packed with practical wisdom and a few laughs along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned ministry leader or just starting your journey, this episode is designed to equip and encourage you as you impact the next generation for Christ.

Thank you for an amazing season! As we close out this season, we want to say a HUGE thank you to all our listeners! Your passion for serving kids, students, and families inspires us every day. We are grateful for your support, your feedback, and your dedication to building God’s kingdom.

Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode when we’re back for the next season. In the meantime, follow us on Instagram @lifeway_kids for updates, encouragement, and resources to support your ministry journey.

Listen now and share this episode with your ministry team! Merry Christmas!

SHOW LINKS:
Explore The Bible
Think Biblically
Christ-Centered Parenting
The Gospel Project
Axis
Raising Boys and Girls

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Ever feel like you’re juggling a dozen roles at once in kids ministry? Whether you’re organizing holiday programs, managing volunteers, or supporting families in need, the demands can feel endless! 

In this episode, Jana Magruder, Nikki Ogden, and Lynley Mandrell, explore what it takes to thrive in kids ministry leadership, sharing real-life strategies and encouragement for navigating the chaos. From juggling countless roles to managing volunteers and navigating the demands of being a leader, they unpack the realities, rewards, and challenges of wearing all the different hats of Kids Ministry.

Learn why delegation, collaboration, and understanding your own strengths are essential for thriving in this fast-paced ministry environment. Whether you're navigating volunteer recruitment or offering emotional support to families, this episode is packed with strategies and encouragement for leaders just like you. Get ready to be inspired, equipped, and reminded that you don’t have to do it all alone!

SHOW LINKS:

Connect with Lifeway Kids

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Live from the ETCH Conference, join us for an exciting conversation with Jana Magruder and Stephanie Chase, Kids Minister at Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, Texas!

This season, we’ve been diving into all the different “hats” of Kids Ministry, and today, Stephanie draws random “hats” from a bucket to share her insights! Get ready to laugh as she connects teaching kids the Bible to the quirks of handling raw chicken. Discover her advice on when to delegate, when to grow in your weaknesses, and how to build a team that loves one another and serves together on mission.

Thanks for listening—and don’t forget to share this episode with a friend!

SHOW LINKS:
Connect with Stephanie Chase
Raw Chicken Teaching

Connect with Lifeway Kids

Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!