Welcome to the Cross Formed Kidmin podcast. A weekly children's ministry podcast made for kidmin pastors, leaders, and volunteers. Every Tuesday your hosts Ryan, Hunter, and Sam, realease a brand new episode discussing key topics, answering questions, and sharing insights from our combined 60 years of experience with kid and family ministry. We know that leading a kids ministry in todays ever changing world can feel overwhelming , if not impossible! Busy schedules, disengaged families, and s ...
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Sam Luce Podcasts
Conversations with science fiction and fantasy authors about the creative process
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A conversation with actor, writer, and producer Sal Amato about his upcoming debut science fiction novel, Hidden Powers. Websitesalamato.com Facebook@hiddenpowersofficial X@HiddenPowersUSA Instagram@hiddenpowersnovel TikTok@hiddenpowersofficial About Hidden Powers Investigative journalist Sarah Moore has exposed government corruption for years. Sti…
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Mark your calendars! New episodes of the Cross Formed Kidmin podcast are coming, starting January 6, 2026!By Ryan Coatney
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Episode 206: Alan Smale – Burning Night (Apollo Rising: Book 3)
43:59
43:59
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43:59A conversation with Sidewise Award-winning novelist (and former NASA astrophysicist) Alan Smale, talking about Burning Night, Book 3 in his Apollo Rising alternate-history science fiction trilogy. Websitealansmale.com [email protected] [email protected] X@AlanSmale About Burning Night On July 4, 1983, Vivian Carter and her NASA crew o…
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Episode 205: Betty Jane Hegerat – Elephants in the Room
50:59
50:59
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50:59A conversation with award-winning Calgary author Betty Jane Hegerat about her latest collection of literary short stories, Elephants in the Room. Websitebettyjanehegerat.com Facebook@bettyjh About Elephants in the Room Fourteen jewel-like stories unveil the tender chaos of lives unlived and loves unspoken In Elephants in the Room, Betty Jane Hegera…
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Episode 204: John R. Carlos – Cryonic Dreams: Awakening
42:43
42:43
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42:43A conversation with author John R. Carlos about Cryonic Dreams: Awakening, the first book in a science-fiction thriller trilogy. Websitesjohnrcarlos.com.au X@JohnRCarlos About the book Dr. Michelle Brown pioneers a revolutionary biotechnology: reanimating the long-dead through advanced cryonics. Her first subject, Maryanne, awakes after 133 years, …
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Episode 203: Mary Robinette Kowal & Sam J. Miller – Red Star Hustle/Apprehension
41:34
41:34
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41:34A conversation with award-winning authors Mary Robinette Kowal and Sam J. Miller about the new Saga Double containing their science fiction novels Apprehension and Red Star Hustle, back-to-back. Websitesmaryrobinettekowal.comsamjmiller.com Facebook@maryrobinettekowal@sentencebender Instagram@[email protected] Bluesky@maryrobinettekowa…
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Episode 202: Alan Bradley – The Flavia de Luce Mystery Series
57:35
57:35
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57:35A long chat with internationally bestselling author Alan Bradley about his Flavia de Luce mystery series, which is now up to Book 11: What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust. WebsitesPenguin Random Housealanbradleyauthor.com About What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust AN INSTANT NATIONAL BESTSELLER One of the best mystery novels of 2024, The Washin…
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Episode 201: Lawrence C. and Christopher Connolly – Minute Men: Execute and Run
46:32
46:32
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46:32A conversation with brothers Lawrence C. Connolly and Christopher Connolly about Minute Men: Execute and Run, a science fiction novel written by Lawrence from a concept by Christopher, with a film script, graphic novel, and much more in the works. Websitesminutemennovel.comlawrenceconnolly.com Substackconcomentertainment.substack.com Facebook@Lawre…
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Episode 200: Annmarie SanSevero – The Butterfly’s Stroke and Other Stories
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44:30
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44:30A conversation with Annmarie SanSevero about her new science fiction/fantasy short story collection, The Butterfly’s Stroke and Other Stories, just released by Stark Publishing. Websiteasansevero.com Facebook X@theItalianMuse Instagram@theitalianmuse About The Butterfly’s Stroke and Other Stories An intricate and harmonious dance between humanity a…
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Episode 199: Jonathan Handel – Who Do You Want to Be?
1:01:12
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1:01:12A wide-ranging conversation with noted entertainment and technology lawyer, journalist, media commentator, and writer Jonathan Handel, with a focus on his children’s picture book, Who Do You Want to Be? Websitejhandel.com X@jhandel Facebook@jhandel Instagram@jhandel99 YouTube@JonathanHandel About Who Do You Want to Be? What do you want to do when y…
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A conversation with UK author James Kinsley about his breathtaking new science-fiction action adventure, Parallels. Websiteunclekins.wordpress.com Facebook@JamesAKinsley Instagram@unclekins Substack@unclekins About Parallels Two worlds. One mind. Endless uncertainty. Jeff is stuck in the mundane now, drifting through aimless days and gnawing doubts…
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107 | Building a Children's Ministry from Scratch
45:57
45:57
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45:57Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter give a step-by-step process of building a children's ministry from scratch. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross Formed Kids c…
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Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter give advice on when a church needs to switch its children's ministry curriculum. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross Formed K…
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105 | Leaders Are Readers: Books to Help You Grow
29:53
29:53
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29:53Description: In this episode, Hunter and Sam discuss various books that have helped them in Kid's Ministry, leadership development, and more. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids See what makes Cross Formed Kids stand out: download your curriculum comparison …
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Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter walk through Aristotles three principles of rhetoric and give tips on how to apply them in your communication. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom …
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103 | How to Create a Kids' Sermon Illustration
31:31
31:31
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31:31Description: In this episode, the guys share practical tips and creative ideas for crafting good illustrations for kids' sermons Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross Formed…
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102 | How to Start a Local Kidmin Meet Up
24:02
24:02
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24:02Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter discuss the why, what, and how of starting a local kidmin meet up. You'll learn best practices, potential obstacles, and the many benfits of these gatherings. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is b…
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Description: In this episode, Hunter and Sam discuss the two sides of planning in ministry and provide suggestions to help you in each. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross…
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Description: In their 100th episode, the guys look back in order to look forward. They discuss the switch that needs to flip for the future of kidmin to be strong and thriving. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Forme…
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Description: In this episode, the guys discuss what theology is, why it matters, and how to teach it to kids in faithful, age-appropriate ways. Resources: How to Teach Kids Theology (Book) Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by…
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098 | Christ, Narnia, and Santa Slapping Heretics [REPLAY]
24:08
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24:08Description: In this episode replay, the guys discuss the doctrine of Christ and Santa's role in the Narnia books, along with a supposed knockout punch he delivered at the Council of Nicea. Resources: The Heidelberg Catechism (Questions 16-19) Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email team@crossformedkids.…
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Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan answer a follow up question from last week's episode about simplifying ministry. Resources: Episode 48: Simplifying Everything Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Ki…
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Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how to simplify 4 key areas of ministry. Resources: Episode 48: Simplifying Everything Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross F…
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Description: In this episode, Hunter and Sam discuss the importance of the advent season and recommend a variety of resources for you and the families at your church. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Ge…
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094 | Case Study: Activating Families [with Jean Paul Molyneux]
31:54
31:54
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31:54Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan talk with Jean Paul Molyneux about his exerience with activating families in his church for discipleship. Jean Paul oversees all aspects of Family Ministry and missions at Ocean View Church in San Pedro, CA. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email team@crossf…
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093 | The Bible Tells Me So: How Scripture Shapes Your Ministry [Replay]
29:42
29:42
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29:42Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how a ministry's view of Scripture impacts its direction and confidence. Resources: How to Teach Kids Theology The Westminster Confession of Faith (Chapter 1, Paragraph 7) Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids Thi…
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092 | How to Implement Catechisms into Every Sphere of Ministry
24:00
24:00
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24:00Description: In this episode, the guys give practical steps to implementing catechisms into various avenues of ministry. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross Formed Kids cu…
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Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter help listeners rethink their approach to teaching the Bible and provide three steps for improving biblical competency in kids. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kid…
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"How do I effectively recruit and develop volunteers?" Many children's ministry leaders struggle with this question. In this popular episode, the guys walk through a helpful framework to help you LAND and keep volunteers. Resources: None - Just burn your sign-up sheets! Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please …
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089 | 4 Stages of Next Gen Discipleship [with Nick Judd]
31:03
31:03
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31:03Description: In this episode, Hunter and Sam talk with Nick Judd about the grading scale he created for his children's ministry called the "4 Stages of Next Gen Discipleship." Nick is the Next Gen Pastor at the Journey Church in Lebanon, TN and the co-host of the Everyday Apologetics podcast. Resources 4 Stages of Next Gen Ministry Post Connect Wit…
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Description: In this episode, Ryan and Sam discuss how to establish strong leadership in children's ministry. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross Formed Kids curriculum to…
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Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter discuss the state of kidmin as it relates to programming, family discipleship, and more. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross …
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086 | Levels of Leadership: Opportunities and Challenges at each Ministry Size
31:44
31:44
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31:44Description: In this episode, Ryan and Sam explore the beauties and challenges of leadership at different sizes and levels of ministry. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross…
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Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan explore various aspects of children's ministry that you might be approaching incorrectly—or at least in a way that differs from their perspective on how it should be done. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This…
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084 | Kidmin Wisdom (Part 2) [with Jim Wideman]
14:42
14:42
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14:42Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter continue their conversation with Jim Wideman to discuss coaching and children's ministry tips. Resources: Everybody Does Better with a Coach by Jim Wideman Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is broug…
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083 | Kidmin Wisdom (Part 1) [with Jim Wideman]
22:35
22:35
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22:35Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter bring on good friend and coach, Jim Wideman, to discuss his top advice for children's ministry leaders. Resources: Everybody Does Better with a Coach by Jim Wideman Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast…
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082 | Why Not Both? Making Family Worship and Children's Church Work Together
28:24
28:24
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28:24Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter intervew Anne Eby about family worship and kids church. She is a wife, homeschool mom of three, and Kids Ministry Coordinator at Grace Story Church in Nashville, TN. Her desire to give her children a Christ-centered, biblical framework to view life through while discipling them together with other famil…
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Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the importance of clear policies and expectations. They walk through things to consider from the time families arrive to when they leave and everything in between. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcas…
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Description: In this episode, the guys discuss what their DREAM conference would be like. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross Formed Kids curriculum to your kidmin. URLS: …
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079 | What Bible Should I Get for My Kids?
20:41
20:41
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20:41Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss kids Bibles, and which ones they suggest for different ages. Resources: Lift the Flap Bible The Beginner's Gospel Story Bible The Big Picture Story Bible Jesus Storybook Bible Gospel Story Bible The Biggest Story Bible Storybook The Action Bible The Adventure Bible The Explorer Bible Connect With…
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078 | Forming Faith (Part 2) [with Matt Markins]
37:38
37:38
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37:38Description: In Part 2 of the Forming Faith series, Hunter and Sam speak with Awana Presiedent and CEO, Matt Markins, on the context of faith formation, its systems, and practical next steps. Resources: Forming Faith: Discipling the Next Generation in a Post-Christian Culture Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, p…
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Description: In this episode, Hunter interviews Sam Luce about his upcoming book and the comparison he makes between Mr. Rogers and Walt Disney's approaches to forming kids. Resources: Forming Faith: Discipling the Next Generation in a Post-Christian Culture Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email team@c…
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076 | Three Aspects of a Healthy Ministry
23:54
23:54
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23:54Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss the three aspects of a healthy ministry. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross Formed Kids curriculum to your kidmin. UR…
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075 | Stations & Rotations: The Cheat Code for Kidmin
25:35
25:35
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25:35Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the benefits of the stations and rotations model, and how it can be implemented in any church, no matter the space or time constraints. Resources: Comparing Children's Ministry Models (Part 1) Comparing Children's Ministry Models (Part 2) Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for th…
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Description: In this episode, Ryan interviews Hunter on his recent decision to leave Awana and become a children's pastor at a local church. Resources: When To Leave (And When To Stay) Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cro…
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Description: In this episode, Sam and Ryan discuss the challenge of deciding when to continue or leave a ministry position. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! Get a custom quote to bring Cross Formed Kids…
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072 | Children's Ministry on a Small Budget
22:30
22:30
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22:30Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter offer advice on running a children's ministry with a low (or non-existent) budget. Resources: Flying in the SKY of Context Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brought to you by Cross Formed Kids! G…
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Description: In this episode, the guys help churches fly in the SKY of context by discussing what leaders need to consider to serve their community well. Resources: Working Genius Predictable Success Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cross Formed Kids This podcast is brough…
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070 | Standing on the SHORE of Volunteer Retention
30:35
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30:35Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter help you stand on the SHORE of retention by discussing what volunteers need to stick around for the long haul. Resources: How to LAND Volunteers Swimming in the WAATR of Delegation How to Effectively Train Children's Ministry Volunteers Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the sh…
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Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how one's perspective on the church and structure of ministry can aid in ministering to families who attend inconsistently. Resources: Developing a Children's Ministry Discipleship Strategy Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email [email protected] Cro…
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