Knowing that I’m a children’s pastor and avid Disney fan, I’ve had many parents ask me what my opinion is on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. It’s well documented that Disney is releasing their anticipated live action picture Beauty and the Beast. It has also been reported that Disney planned an “exclusively gay moment” with the character LeFou….
I’m often asked what my top recommendation for parenting books are. I have a few favorites for different reasons. I hope if you are ever in need of a great resource that these recommendations will help: Don’t Miss It: Parent every week like it counts by Reggie Joiner and Kristen Ivy This is a very…
What are you believing for in 2017? I want to encourage all my children’s and family ministry friends to dream big and hope for much. Some of you have thought about throwing the towel in, but I’m believing that this is your year. This is your year of breakthrough, your year to reap what you…
Our pastor has said to our team many times that it’s more important for parents to be the heroes in the lives of our kids—not the kid’s pastor. Most leaders would agree with this statement, however few take steps to make it happen. We all want to be great leaders, to impact kids and create…
One of the many things I really appreciated about my Christian parents growing up is that we had a lot of fun. I love that we were able to trick-or-treat during Halloween, open presents from Santa on Christmas, trade valentines on Valentines Day and search for Easter eggs and baskets on Easter morning. Don’t worry—we…
Hey parents! Don’t waste a snow day. Talk about God’s love. Check out this video for some help. -Justyn
Hebrews 13:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 I often look back at my life and am amazed at the journey God has taken me on. I know there are ministers more qualified to do what I do, but God’s grace and the leaders who believe in me have carried me to where I am today. That’s why…
We can probably all agree that we have personal convictions about things, we believe in ownership—the “all in, do whatever it takes” mentality—and know God has a calling on our lives. What do you do though when these three at times can seem at odds? The chances are, you will go through seasons where these…
“What happens when the leader is wrong in a top-down culture? Everyone goes off a cliff…” (Leaders Eat Last, p. 143) This phrase resonated within me while reading through Leaders Eat Last for a second time. Leadership is such a big deal in any culture. Most reading this are probably children’s leaders or pastors. I…
I’m very excited to announce that we at Go Kids are releasing our second full album called “Thrill”. If your kids attend River Valley Church on the weekends then they’re probably pretty familiar with the songs already. Our River Valley Music team has been writing some pretty amazing songs that correspond with our teaching for…