Articles

Encounters: On the Mountain

Where did you come from? What community of faith shaped your spiritual journey? I grew up in a vibrant church that was continuously expectant for encounters with God. Theologically and practically, meeting with God, sensing His Spirit, and hearing His voice were part of the church culture….

Encounters: In the Ashes

After a siege on Jerusalem by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, the Jewish people of Judah were made captives once more. Among them were four young men – brilliant, handsome, and likely of noble lineage. Because of their station and brightness, these four captives were chosen…

Keeping Kids Safe at Church with a Child Protection Policy

Children have immense purpose and value! And they are so vulnerable. That’s why pastors, teachers, parents, and volunteers have the ultimate responsibility of doing all they can to protect the little ones, the most vulnerable in our society. We understand this is a high calling…

Surprised by the Gift

A few weeks ago my church started a series called, “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Together we looked at the way each Gospel tells the story of Jesus. I’m always looking for striking things when I read and study God’s Word, so what stood…

Five Steps to Building Relationships

Start Simple When meeting someone new, start by simply saying “Hi.” Introduce yourself. A conversation must start somewhere and a simple hello and introduction is a good place. Sometimes people stand awkwardly in a group hoping someone will simply give them a kind word or…

Can I Pray?

Just a few hours ago, my family invited a 10-year-old girl into our home. Through Safe Families, we have opened up our home to a lot of kids over the years. Some stay for a weekend, others for weeks, one stayed for two years. But…

Allergy Management for Children in Your Care

Today’s post comes from John Dunstan, a key member of the support team at KidCheck. Allergies have increased steadily over the last fifty years1, and this increase affects your ministry. Eavesdrop on a typical conversation among a group of parents, and the issue of allergies will likely…

Your Name

In children’s ministry, your name tag is a big deal. You have to wear a name tag. It not only identifies you to visitors and your church family; it signifies you are safe. You belong here. If someone is hanging around the children’s ministry area…

Five Tips for Smiling Parents and Safe Kids

Today’s post comes from Alex Smith, the CEO of KidCheck, a data security and child safety expert, church safety team leader, and former police officer. Children’s ministry continues to face the challenge of balancing a fun, welcoming environment with today’s growing security demands. You have to…