April ‘07 Children’s Ministry and Culture Digest

Here’s the top clicked upon posts of April:

The news of Craig Jutila’s resignation from Saddleback prompted much “googling” among a generation of children’s pastors blest by his ministry. Our top two posts this month were regarding this surprising announcement. We’ll refer you to Craig’s website, www.empoweringkids.net, where Craig directly addresses the issue with candor. Craig has said everything worth saying on the matter. We wish Craig the best and we’re grateful for how his work changed how we approach our own children’s ministries.

Thoughts on Presenting Scripture spun out of a discussion at www.kidology.org about the pro’s and con’s of topical and chronological “scope and sequences.” We discussed how the ways we organize our lessons change or even challenge a child’s perception of Scripture.

Children’s ministers are dying for resources on Presenting Spiritual Gifts to Kids. If Christian publishers monitor this site, here’s a secret: This is one of the most searched for topics, month after month, on this topic.

Larry asked for help on how to relocate a church campus and got much wisdom here.

Are we “blinded with (old) science?” Is there a place in the church for reward systems based in behavioralism? We share some thoughts here.

Several of you readers were interested to know that Brother Jim has a blog.

People continue to be curious as to whether there’s a five-word baby language. Note to self: Create a concept that appeals to a universal desire, like the desire to be a good parent. Now craft a “cure” whose benefit can’t be proven nor denied. Market vigorously.

The Millenials are now volunteering in your children’s ministry. Read Keith’s post to learn how to lead the most affirmed generation in recent years.

And finally, Aaron Reynolds is making waves with his new book “The Fabulous Reinvention of Sunday School.”