Category Archives: Teaching

What is Lamplight?

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” This scripture became very real to me a few years ago. I was ministering at a church in Hilo, Hawaii. I told the pastor I wanted to visit the live volcano about 45 minutes from his church. He gave some specific directions to Volcanoes National Park. My friend told me where […]

Have You Heard The News?

After 45 years, I retired from my job as Kids Pastor. It was a good weekend. Many parents and kids came by to say “Thank You,” and I reconnected with many kids who grew up on our ministry teams and continue to serve the Lord as adults.  So, what’s next?  Debbie and I will take […]

The Crucial Role of Sharing the Gospel in Kids’ Ministry

Today, I want to share a story—a story that resonates deeply with the heart of children’s ministry. My wife and I consider ourselves fortunate that a few years ago we were granted a unique opportunity: participation in Jim Wideman’s coaching program. To many, he’s simply “Brother Jim.” His wisdom, experience, and passion for children’s ministry […]

How To Choose Happiness (When You Don’t Want To Be)

Well, we have officially entered into the Christmas Season. It is, after all, after Thanksgiving (or should I say Black Friday)? Either way we are on our way, whether we like it or not, toward Christmas. For some, this is a joyous, happy, exciting time. For others it may be a hard, somewhat painful period. […]

How To Recognize If You Are Becoming Overwhelmed

In the KidMin world, the Christmas season can be an exhilarating, yet demanding period. Preparing for special services, organizing events, and ensuring children grasp the significance of Christ’s birth can be all-consuming. The rush to make everything perfect for the children and their families can often leaves Kid’s Pastors feeling drained, both physically and emotionally. […]

How I Got Rid of the Grinch in My Life

I used to work in retail at a big box store. It might sound strange, but I used to get pretty anxious when Christmas was on the horizon. In the world of retail, from Thanksgiving through January, the holiday season was a rollercoaster of emotions. Customers often got impatient, frustrated, and sometimes even argumentative. It […]

Are Your Kids Ready to Grow Up Strong in Christ?

In a world filled with complexities, Jesus’ command to “go into all the world and make disciples” may sound like a daunting task. But, when it comes to nurturing the faith of children, it’s all about embracing simplicity. To truly make disciples of the kids in our classes, we need to understand what it means […]

Boundaries in Ministry

Without question, the biggest challenge in ministry is creating healthy boundaries. Church, spouse, children, job, and friends all seem to blend together. “A boundary defines where you end and someone else begins.” Ask yourself these questions: The most basic boundary word is the word “No”. The demands of ministry are never-ending. If you are going […]

How I Teach Kids To Have The Right Attitude At Christmas

Christmas is right around the corner.  I love this time of year.  It truly is the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year!” On the other hand, the real reason we celebrate Christmas can get lost in the hustle and bustle to get the best gifts and have the best decorated Christmas Tree. Our focus can […]

Leading effectively without a title

Certainly, leadership is not solely determined by one’s position or title. Leadership can be demonstrated at various levels and in different ways, regardless of whether you hold the “top dog” position. I would guess that 80% of the ministry that I have done has been without a title.  Yet at the same time I know […]