It’s that time of year again when some church leaders try to figure out what to do about Halloween. Do we do a “Harvest Fest”? Do we let kids dress up? Do we not care about Halloween? Do we even say the word ‘Halloween’? Wherever you land on the spectrum—just own and run with it….
For the past few years I have struggled with something that is hard to talk about outside of a very tight close few friends. Anxiety and mild depression. Having grown up in church and being a part of ministry since I was very young–18-years-old. You learn that it’s one of those taboo topics that…
The Walt Disney Company recently announced that one of their most popular shows, Andi Mack, will include a storyline in which one of its main characters discovers he is gay. In the season premiere, a middle school boy named Cyrus finds he has romantic feelings for a male friend named Jonah. Over the next several…
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…