February 23, 2026

S2E9 Mentoring is not the answer, with Sandy Brodine

42 minutes

Melanie Cave interviews Sandy Brodine, an intergenerational ministry leader from Australia. They discuss Sandy's journey into ministry, the state of intergenerational practices in Australian churches, and the importance of shared meaning making in worship. Sandy shares insights on the dynamics of learning together, the role of discussion in faith formation, and the need for active learning in church settings. They also explore the challenges of navigating change in traditional church environments and the significance of tradition versus innovation in worship practices. The conversation highlights the beauty of scripture, the importance of mentoring, and the creative approaches being taken in intergenerational ministry, including the innovative use of Minecraft for church activities.

Keywords

intergenerational ministry, church, Australia, shared meaning making, faith formation, mentoring, active learning, tradition, innovation, community

Takeaways

Intergenerational ministry is becoming more common in Australia, especially in Uniting Churches.

Shared meaning making is a key concept in intergenerational worship.

Discussion and active learning are essential for faith formation.

Mentoring should be a mutual relationship rather than a one-way transfer of knowledge.

Children and young people can offer valuable insights and wisdom.

The beauty of scripture is that it remains relevant and can be interpreted in new ways.

Tradition and innovation can coexist in church practices. Creative approaches, like Minecraft Church, engage younger generations.

Navigating change in church settings requires sensitivity and gradual implementation.

sound bites

'We have to wrestle things through.'

'Mentoring is not the answer.'

'Kids are very wise.'

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of Intergenerational Ministry

01:54 Sandy's Journey into Intergenerational Ministry

05:16 The Appeal and Growth of Intergenerational Church

08:54 Shared Meaning Making in Worship

12:31 The Importance of Active Learning in Faith

16:07 Wrestling with Faith and Questions 1

9:43 The Relevance of Scripture in Changing Times

20:26 Rethinking Mentoring in Intergenerational Ministry

24:31 The Role of Humility and Mutual Learning

27:14 Innovative Approaches: Minecraft Church

30:06 Navigating Control and Chaos in Church

33:58 Tradition vs. Modernity: The Sacred Connection

37:03 Resources for Intergenerational Ministry

Show Notes:

• Intergen Australia: https://intergen.org.au/

• Roots for Churches: www.rootsforchurches.com

• Uniting Church in Australia (Victoria and Tasmania): https://victas.uca.org.au/

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By Roots for Churches